On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 40 students from Parasi Middle School in Nalanda district became ill after being served a mid-day meal containing detergent powder instead of salt. Reports indicate that the incident occurred in the area under Noorsarai police station during the lunch service. Following the meal, several students experienced stomach pain and vomiting, prompting immediate medical attention.
The school management responded swiftly, transporting the affected children to Bihar Sharif Model Hospital. As news spread about the incident, numerous worried parents rushed to the hospital, creating a large gathering outside, where they anxiously awaited information about their children’s condition.
According to a teacher at the school, the meal was supplied by another educational institution. The soybean vegetable served lacked sufficient salt, leading to confusion when students requested salt. The teacher stated that detergent powder was mistakenly served in place of salt, a fact the students were unaware of at the time.
Response from Medical Personnel and Authorities
Upon arriving at the hospital, medical staff commenced the treatment of the affected children. Dr. Jai Prakash Singh, the Nalanda Civil Surgeon, confirmed that several doctors were on hand to monitor the children’s health closely. He reassured families that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure their recovery, stating that “all the children are safe and are receiving treatment.”
The incident triggered considerable concern among the parents and relatives of the students, resulting in a crowded hospital environment as they sought news about their children. Following the alarming reports, Bihar Rural Development Minister Shravan Kumar visited the hospital to assess the situation and meet with the children receiving care.
<h4“The hospital management has been directed to ensure proper treatment for every child,” Minister Kumar stated. He also emphasised that strict action would be undertaken against individuals found to be responsible for this grave error. Furthermore, Kumar highlighted the need for meticulous care in the preparation and serving of meals intended for schoolchildren.