Teacher Deepak Vental’s initiative at Government Primary School Ghuthera promotes community participation and healthy meals for children
Mungeli: A teacher at Government Primary School Ghuthera in Mungeli district celebrated his birthday in a unique and socially meaningful way by organising a Nyoata Bhoj for all the students at his own expense.
Instead of spending money on a private birthday celebration, teacher Deepak Vental chose to share the occasion with the children and support the Chhattisgarh government’s Nyoata Bhoj initiative, which encourages community participation in school meals.
The students were served a variety of nutritious and traditional dishes, including dal, rice, mixed vegetables, papad, kheer-puri, bananas, halwa and chocolates. The children were particularly excited to have their meal alongside their teacher.
The initiative turned a personal celebration into an occasion focused on children’s happiness, nutrition and community participation.
Focus on Nutrition and School Participation
The programme was organised with the objective of encouraging greater public participation in the Nyoata Bhoj scheme and strengthening the connection between the local community and the school.
Such community-supported meals can provide students with additional nutritious food while also helping create a stronger sense of belonging and attachment towards the school.
The programme was attended by Mungeli Block Education Officer Vimitra Ghritlahare, Pathariya Block Education Officer Dr Pratibha Mandoi, Lormi Block Education Officer Manisha Patle, Block Source Coordinator S.K. Upadhyay, Cluster Academic Coordinator Umesh Sahu, Cluster Coordinator Nemichand Bhaskar, In-charge Principal of Koyalari Poshan Sahu and Ghuthera Sarpanch Rajkumar Bais.
Retired SDOP Narendra Vental, retired Forest Inspector Bhairoprasad Tiwari, School Teachers’ Association Block President Durgesh Dewangan, members of the school staff, the School Management Committee president and several prominent residents of the village were also present.
Guests Praise Teacher’s Initiative
The guests appreciated Deepak Vental’s initiative and described it as an example that could inspire other teachers and members of the community.
Speaking on the occasion, teacher Deepak Vental said, “The government has introduced the Nyoata Bhoj scheme. I wanted the happiness of my birthday to become a reason for these children to smile. I find true happiness in being among the children. Instead of unnecessary spending on a birthday celebration, sharing the occasion with the children whose future we are helping shape is the greatest gift I could receive.”
Mungeli Block Education Officer Vimitra Ghritlahare said that Vental had set an example by linking his birthday with community service. She expressed hope that the initiative would inspire other teachers across the district.
She also said that the government aims to encourage more people to participate in the Nyoata Bhoj scheme and strengthen community involvement in schools.
Block Source Coordinator S.K. Upadhyay said such programmes help increase students’ attachment to their schools and can also contribute to reducing school dropout rates.
Students Extend Birthday Wishes
The programme concluded with students extending their birthday wishes and greetings to teacher Deepak Vental.
The event was conducted by teacher Durgesh Dewangan, while Headmistress Nirmala Netam delivered the vote of thanks.
The initiative at Government Primary School Ghuthera turned a teacher’s personal celebration into a community-focused event, highlighting how individual contributions can support government programmes while bringing happiness to schoolchildren.
