Nalanda School Meal Incident Leaves 34 Children Ill, Authorities Probe Food Contamination

Patna, August 19, 2026; At least 34 students of Parsa Middle School in Nalanda district were taken ill after consuming the midday meal served at the school, triggering concern among parents and authorities.

The incident occurred on Tuesday when several students began experiencing throat irritation, abdominal pain and other symptoms shortly after having their lunch. School authorities arranged for the affected children to be taken to Biharsharif Sadar Hospital for medical attention.

Doctors treating the students said the symptoms were consistent with food poisoning. The condition of all the children admitted to the hospital was reported to be stable.

An allegation that detergent powder had accidentally been used in place of salt while preparing the meal sparked further concern. However, Nalanda District Education Officer rejected the claim and said the circumstances surrounding the incident needed to be assessed before reaching any conclusion.

Nalanda MLA and Rural Development Minister Shrawon Kumar visited Biharsharif Sadar Hospital after the incident. He met the hospitalised students and spoke to medical staff about their health and treatment.

Authorities are expected to examine the preparation and distribution of the school meal to determine what caused the children to fall ill. The incident has also raised questions over food-safety practices in school midday meals.