The correct answer is (b), 1995.
The Mid-day Meal Scheme (MDMS) is a school meal program in India that provides free lunches to students in government and government-aided schools. The scheme was launched in 1995 with the objective of improving the nutritional status of children and reducing school dropout rates. The MDMS is one of the largest school feeding programs in the world, and it has been credited with improving the health and education outcomes of millions of children in India.
The MDMS is funded by the central government and implemented by the state governments. The scheme provides a cooked meal to all students enrolled in government and government-aided schools, up to the age of 14. The meal must meet certain nutritional standards, and it must be prepared in a hygienic manner.
The MDMS has been successful in improving the nutritional status of children in India. A study by the National Institute of Nutrition found that the prevalence of malnutrition among children enrolled in the MDMS was significantly lower than among children who were not enrolled in the program. The MDMS has also been credited with reducing school dropout rates. A study by the World Bank found that the MDMS had a positive impact on school attendance and enrollment rates.
The MDMS has faced some challenges, including the quality of the food, the hygiene of the kitchens, and the pilferage of food. However, the MDMS remains a popular program, and it is likely to continue to be implemented in India for many years to come.
The other options are incorrect because the Mid-day Meal Scheme was not started in those years.