Consider the following statements :
1. NISHTHA is an integrated teacher training programme that has been extended to cover teachers at all stages of school education.
2. PM POSHAN covers only those school children who are studying in classes I-VI in Government and Government-aided schools.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

Correct option is A

Statement 1 is correct: NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement) is an integrated teacher training programme launched by the Ministry of Education.

• Initially, NISHTHA focused on elementary school teachers.

• Subsequently, it was expanded to cover:

  • Secondary and senior secondary teachers

  • School heads

  • Teachers of pre-primary and foundational stages

• The programme aligns with NEP 2020 and aims at holistic development, competency-based learning, and capacity building across all stages of school education.

Statement 2 is incorrect: PM POSHAN (earlier Mid-Day Meal Scheme) provides nutritional support to:

• Students of Classes I–VIII

• Studying in Government and Government-aided schools, and also local body schools

It does not cover only Classes I–VI. The correct coverage is Classes I to VIII, including upper primary students.