Ludhiana, Aug. 10 -- A few government school heads have written to their respective block primary education officers (BPEOs), highlighting pending dues arising from the non-release of funds under the mid-day meal scheme since May. They have also informed that schools were being forced to procure essential food items on credit from local vendors to ensure that meals continued to be served to students.

The school authorities said they had been purchasing grains and other essential items required for preparing the meals on credit to ensure students continued receiving cooked food. With payments yet to be released, schools have been left with mounting dues to local suppliers, prompting head teachers to formally bring the matter to the notice...