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Dropout and Retention Among School Children in the Context of the Mid-Day Meal Programme in India

Author

Listed:
  • Shivani Gharge

    (Shivani Gharge (corresponding author) is at the International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Email: gharge.shivani@gmail.com)

  • Sayeed Unisa

    (Sayeed Unisa is formerly at the Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.)

Abstract

This study examines the effect of the world’s largest school-feeding programme, the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) programme, on dropout and retention among schoolchildren in India. Data from the India Human Development Survey (IHDS) Rounds 1 (2004–05) and 2 (2011–12) were used. The sample included individual-level information on schoolchildren aged 5–10 years in IHDS-1 who turned 12–17 years in IHDS-2. Bivariate and logistic regression analysis was used to examine school dropout and retention rates by MDM consumption patterns and factors associated with them among schoolchildren. The findings suggest that schoolchildren having MDM support in their younger years had a lower dropout rate. Participants who received early and persistent MDM support were more likely to be retained in school. Participants residing in urban areas or living farther from school were more likely to drop out, while those receiving scholarships were associated with higher retention in school. JEL Codes: H52, I21, I22, I28, Q18

Suggested Citation

  • Shivani Gharge & Sayeed Unisa, 2024. "Dropout and Retention Among School Children in the Context of the Mid-Day Meal Programme in India," Margin: The Journal of Applied Economic Research, National Council of Applied Economic Research, vol. 18(3-4), pages 282-309, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:mareco:v:18:y:2024:i:3-4:p:282-309
    DOI: 10.1177/00252921241309144
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • H52 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Government Expenditures and Education
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I22 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Educational Finance; Financial Aid
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy
    • Q18 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Agriculture - - - Agricultural Policy; Food Policy; Animal Welfare Policy

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