Dozens of students at a school in Bihar fell ill after detergent was mistakenly added to their mid-day meal in place of salt, according to multiple news reports. The incident has sparked fresh concerns over food safety standards in the state's school meal programme.

What Happened at the Bihar School

A cook at the school reportedly used detergent instead of salt while preparing the mid-day meal served to students. Shortly after consuming the food, numerous children began experiencing health problems, prompting an urgent response.

Students Rushed to Hospital

Reports on the exact number of affected children vary across news outlets. NDTV reported that 36 students fell ill, while The Hindu and The Indian Express put the figure at at least 34. India Today reported that as many as 40 students were affected. Many of the children were hospitalised following the incident.

Questions Over Meal Safety

The incident has drawn attention to the preparation and oversight of mid-day meals in Bihar schools. The mid-day meal scheme is a critical programme that serves millions of schoolchildren across India, and any lapse in food safety can have serious consequences for young students.

Authorities are expected to look into how detergent ended up being used in the cooking process. Further details on the condition of the hospitalised students and any action against those responsible are awaited.