The “three gratis” policy was first launched in 1985, which refers to free food, boarding and learning equipment for children of Tibetan farmers and herdsmen as well as children from families living in difficulty in towns. 

 

About 90 percent of the cash subsidy is spent on food. “There are multiple types of dishes in school restaurant and students can taste local beef, mutton, milk as well as fresh vegetables and fruits,” said Qimi Sita, vice-principal of Kongma Town Elementary School in Naqu County of Tibet.

 

Kongma with an average elevation of 5,040 meters, has a dry climate. Facilities like warming systems, wells, and bathrooms, have been set up to ensure students have a better living and learning environment.