Ludhiana, July 28 -- Government schools in Ludhiana have been running the mid-day meal scheme on credit as funds have remained pending since May, forcing school authorities to procure food items from local vendors without immediate payment to ensure students continue receiving meals.

Teachers said the delay, caused by the transition to a new fund disbursement portal, has also affected other payments, including those for school uniforms.

The mid-day meal scheme provides free cooked meals to students in government and aided schools to improve child nutrition and encourage school attendance. Under the scheme, the government provides Rs.6.78 per child for primary classes and Rs.10.17 per child for middle classes.

However, with no funds rel...