13 crore children covered by SSA: Minister

Chirala, Andhra Pradesh, Apr 9 (UNI) As many as 13 crore children were being educated across the country under the Union Government's Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Union Minister of State for Human Resources Development D Purandeswari said today.

Speaking at a Bharat Nirman public information campaign, she said the SSA was aimed at providing educational opportunities to children in the age group of six to 14 years.

Appealing to those below the poverty line to use the opportunity, she said the mid-day meal scheme being implemented by the Government was another programme attracting children to education.

The Minister said education was a strong weapon to strengthen people's rights and the democratic system in the country. It was the responsibility of parents to ensure that all girls go to school.

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