Lawmakers Propose Free Meals for Schoolchildren from Low-Income Families
Russia may expand free school meals to older and low-income students
Members of Russia's State Duma have introduced an initiative to support low-income families by providing free hot meals to students in grades 5–11 and vocational college students whose households earn no more than twice the regional subsistence minimum per capita.
The proposal was put forward by Sergei Mironov, leader of the A Just Russia—For Truth party and head of its Duma faction, along with Yan Lantratov, chair of the State Duma Committee on Civil Society, Public and Religious Associations. In their appeal to Education Minister Sergei Kravtsov, the lawmakers noted that Russia's current system of free school meals remains "limited and inconsistent."
Under existing federal law, only students in grades 1–4 are guaranteed free hot meals, while older pupils rely on patchwork regional benefits.
"Between the ages of 10 and 19, children's health takes shape and the foundations of their future human capital are laid," Lantratov explained. "Inadequate or irregular nutrition during this period directly affects their health, academic performance, ability to adapt to school, and ultimately their future prospects."
He added that the proposed measure would strengthen support for students, promote child health, and unlock the potential of Russia's next generation.
Earlier, we reported on limits for money transfers via ATMs and banking apps.
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