The power of a child’s voice

 An Austrian psychoanalyst, writer and philosopher Otto Rank said, “What we change inwardly will change the outer reality.”

Indeed! Today, India is a frontrunner in raising a progressive socioeconomic reality and an inclusive world. Its upcoming generation—an amalgam of various backgrounds—has begun working on a future where individuals are not only self-sufficient but also transcend their capacities to achieve bigger milestones for their families, country and humanity at large. 

A significant credit for it goes to the child welfare schemes by the Government of India, with a greater focus on children from lesser privileged families. Programmes like the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan are making quality nutrition available to children from challenging backgrounds to help them reach their highest potential. 

Here are the dreams of some PM POSHAN beneficiaries who study in government schools and receive mid-day meals (MDM) from The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

Bindiya Choudhary, 8th standard, Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Bikaner

Bindiya works hard every day to fulfil her dream of becoming an international basketball player. She says, “I’ll become a legendary basketball player and represent our country internationally. Recently, we had an interschool basketball tournament. It was a tough competition, but we won. I scored the last two points by shooting a lap shot,” 

But there’s often a strictly disciplined lifestyle behind such an achievement. “After school, I reach home, rest for a while and leave for the basketball court around mid-afternoon. The court is around 10 km away from my home. I cycle till there and practice for 3-4 hours,” Bindiya explains.

Suryadeep, 8th standard, C.P.S Kharadpada, Silvassa

For Suryadeep, discipline and self-dependence are non-negotiable traits in life. He aspires to join the Indian army and protect the nation. At the tender age of 13 years, he is learning and practising every skill that will help him survive in army camps. 

Suryadeep stays away from his family in a hostel near his school. His father is a labourer at the Hindustan pencil manufacturing factory. Both his mothers are housewives and all his siblings work daily wage jobs. 

In his room, he pulls a medal from his cupboard and says, “I’m the captain of my school’s kho kho team. We had an inter-school kho-kho competition recently. Our team bagged the gold medal in it. Now we’re preparing to participate in the district-level kho-kho competition.” 

An organised daily routine at the hostel and rigorous training in sports have made Suryadeep independent, disciplined and adept in survival skills. He plans to utilise these experiences to join the army. He says, “I plan to get enrolled in the army under sports quota and train harder to become a commando.” 

Ayush Vishwakarma, 3rd standard, Primary school, Bhitkuri, Sevapuri, Varanasi

Ayush Vishwakarma likes coming to school because he learns good habits here. He aims to become an IAS officer when he grows up and serve those who live around him. He wants to help the children of the marginalised get a good education so that they become successful when they grow up. “I got inspired watching a woman on the TV who became an IAS officer and helped the poor,” he recollects. 

“I talk about my dreams with my brother. He says I should become a doctor instead. But I've already started preparing for my dream to become an IAS officer by running and doing Yoga every day,” he concludes.

Anshika Sharma, 8th standard, Smart Model School Paharpur, Lucknow

Anshika Sharma was made the head girl of her class because of her academic performance and people management skills. “When children become restless, they go to teachers and complain frequently. Although teachers take care of serious matters, they made me a head girl to address issues within the classroom. They chose me because I was one of the top scorers and handled tasks skillfully,” she says. 

The 13-year-old likes coming to school because she gets to play, study, eat and practice her hobbies. “I have multiple hobbies. I participate in sports events and always bag the first or the second prize. But when I take part in drawing or mehendi competitions, I always come first! I receive a lot of support at home for all these activities. They tell me to work hard and be focused on whatever I do!” the 8th-standard student says in a cheerful tone.

When asked about her ambition, she replies, “I aim to join the police force when I grow up and maintain law and order in the country. I want to punish wrongdoers, protect good people and ensure that justice prevails. I’m not preparing for it right now but will start soon. The mid-day meals (MDM) I get here give me the energy to study and persevere. We get dal rice, kheer tehri, kadhi rice and roti subzi. But my favourite is kheer tehri!”

Feed the children and nurture their aspirations with MDM

Children need to be healthy, both physically and mentally, to achieve their dreams. Schemes that educate and feed the children like the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan will help those from challenging backgrounds live to their fullest, align their efforts with their goals and achieve the future they desire. By sparing a few seconds to contribute for their nutritious mid-day meals, we all can do our bit for a prosperous, equitable and resilient future. Furthermore, the Government of India has made provisions for taxpayers under the Income Tax Act of 1961 wherein they can make tax-exempt donations to registered NGOs.

At Akshaya Patra, one can make a tax-exempt donation for mid-day meals (MDM) within a few clicks online, keeping them nourished and in school throughout the year. 

Maximising Goodness with Charitable Donations

Charitable donations are a powerful way for individuals to make a positive impact on society while enjoying potential tax benefits. When you contribute to a cause you believe in, not only are you supporting a noble endeavour, but you may also get income taxdeduction under section 80G of the Income Tax (IT) Act. Understanding the ins and outs of tax exemption donations can empower you to make a difference while optimising your financial position.

Ways to Reduce Income Tax

Choose the Best NGO in India

The first step in maximising tax benefits for your donations is to ensure you contribute to a qualified charitable organisation. These organisations are typically registered as nonprofits and can provide you with the necessary documentation for tax purposes. Check the official list of approved NGOs in India to make sure your chosen cause is eligible.

Itemise Your Deductions

To avail of tax benefits, you need to itemise your deductions when filing your income tax return. Instead of taking the standard deduction, which is a fixed amount set by the Indian Revenue Service (IRS), listing your eligible expenses individually can potentially lead to a larger deduction. Keep detailed records of your charitable contributions, including receipts and acknowledgement letters from the organisations you support.

Understand the Limitations

While charitable contributions can help you get tax exemption, there are limitations to the 80G deductions. Generally, the IRS allows you to deduct up to 60% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for cash donations to public charities. For non-cash donations or contributions to private foundations, different rules may apply. Be sure to consult the latest tax guidelines or seek advice from a tax professional.

Tips on Maximising Donations

Give Wisely and Strategically

Consider making larger donations in specific years to maximise your tax benefits. If you anticipate a higher income in a particular year, increasing your charitable contributions can help offset your tax liability. Planning your donations strategically can make a significant difference in optimising your overall financial picture.

Go online for donations

Don't limit your contributions to cash alone. Non-cash donations, such as online donations, can also qualify for tax deductions. Keep records of the online certificates and tax exemption certificates. 

Take Advantage of Employer Matching Programmes

Many employers offer matching gift programmes, where they match their employees' charitable contributions. Check if your employer participates in such programmes. This not only increases the impact of your donation but benefits of tax exemption too.

Bringing It All Together - Akshaya Patra

As you embark on your journey of philanthropy, it's worth considering organisations like Akshaya Patra, which focuses on eradicating hunger and promoting education. Akshaya Patra is known for its impactful initiatives, particularly for providing mid-day meals to school children across India.

Donors supporting Akshaya Patra can experience the joy of contributing to a cause that makes a substantial difference in the lives of children. From a tax perspective, donors also stand to benefit under section 80G. Akshaya Patra is a registered nonprofit organisation, ensuring that your contributions are eligible for tax deductions.

By contributing to AkshayaPatra, you align yourself with a cause that not only resonates with your values but also allows you to optimise your financial position through tax benefits. 

In the realm of charitable donations, the synergy between doing good and receiving tax benefits is a win-win situation. As a common man navigating the complexities of income tax, understanding the nuances of charitable contributions can be empowering. By strategically choosing the right causes, maximising contributions and exploring all available avenues, you not only make a positive impact on society but also optimise your financial well-being.

Choosing to support organisations like Akshaya Patra adds an extra layer of fulfilment to your philanthropic journey. By contributing to a cause that addresses crucial issues like hunger and education, you not only benefit from potential tax deductions but also become an integral part of transformative change in the lives of those less fortunate. So, as you embark on your journey of giving, remember that your contributions have the power to make the world a better place for everyone.

A reflection on the role of NGOs in shaping tomorrow

 Each day, the world encounters a myriad of challenges that require collective efforts to overcome. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) are the unsung heroes that harness support from millions to bring impactful change. From local to global, they make a difference everywhere. The best example is the role played by NGOs during the COVID-19 pandemic. They provided immediate relief to people by providing food and medical supplies and implementing response strategies in collaboration with the government and local authorities.

Numerous NGOs work dedicatedly for different causes, shedding light on different social issues. They inspire people to support those in need and strive for their development.

Let’s dive into the list of areas where NGOs contribute.

• Education

Education is the prime thing that can enhance the living standard. When one receives a good education, it will open doors for numerous high-tier job opportunities, and consequently, a better future. However, children from financially limited backgrounds often face the stark choice of labour to support the family or manage household responsibilities, depriving them of their fundamental right to education. Several NGOs work to bridge this gap by offering scholarships and financial aid and also run educational institutes and remedial classes for students in need and thus broaden their access to educational opportunities.

• Hunger eradication 

Hunger remains a persistent social issue leaving many without a proper meal. Numerous NGOs strive to tackle this issue by providing nutritious meals and advocating for policies that guarantee every individual’s access to this fundamental need - food. By investing in food assistance programmes like distributing nutritional supplements to people in need or child nutrition endeavours like the School Breakfast Programme or Mid-Day Meal Scheme, NGOs strive to build a hunger-free future.

• Disaster relief

Nowadays, crises have become the ‘new normal’. Whether natural or man-made, disasters seem to unfold daily across the globe. During these times, NGOs consistently step forward as the initial responders, offering vital disaster aid such as food, water, medicines and shelter.

• Animal rights

One fact that people often forget is that animals also have space in this world as rightful inhabitants of the Earth. Numerous NGOs work for the welfare of animals, relocating them to safer environments and providing care. In some instances, they work on the conservation of natural habitats of species or create habitats that emulate their natural living conditions.

• Help for the elderly

The welfare of old age people is yet another concern of India. Senior citizens often face difficulties in receiving adequate care and support, preventing them from leading a quality life. NGOs work to address this challenge. For example, they run old-age homes for the elderly. Similarly, to people who are struggling with health and financial issues, they provide essential treatment and support. They provide accommodation, food and recreational activities and collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to create a more supportive environment for senior citizens.

• Environment conservation

In the unbridled pursuit of development, people forget to protect nature. The environment is the source of living. NGOs serve nature and revive the lost greenery. They raise awareness about environmental issues, conduct reforestation programmes and implement strategies to protect natural resources, paving the way for a sustainable future.

• Women empowerment

Many NGOs function for empowering women to live independently and to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with men. They support their education and offer skill-building programmes, empowering them to actively participate in economic activities. These organisations extend their reach to women in rural areas, aiming to integrate them into the forefront of economic participation. They address issues related to gender violence and support women to create a good future for themselves.

How do NGOs work?

• Collaboration

NGOs collaborate with stakeholders such as the government, corporate organisations and other NGOs to bring the change they want to see in the world. They conduct research, gather data and collect money to implement activities effectively. This collaboration also allows companies to fulfil their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments.

• Fundraising activities

NGOs conduct various fundraising activities and bring people together to work for a noble cause. This doesn’t just help pool resources from different avenues but also instils a feeling among people that they are significant contributors driving societal change. The joy of donation inspires people to participate in such activities frequently and makes them aware of the various issues around the world.

• Advocacy

While people often readily associate with NGOs which work on the service delivery front, there are others which occupy the advocacy space. These NGOs advocate and influence policy decisions through avenues such as thought leadership, thus having a significant impact in domains like human rights, social justice, etc. There also exist NGOs which focus on awareness and research.

Regardless of their type or area of impact, NGOs have a responsibility to inform donors about how their contributions are utilised. By maintaining transparency in all their activities, NGOs build trust among their donors, assuring them that their donations are used effectively and align with the intended goals. When choosing an NGO to support, this is one aspect that needs to be taken into consideration.

NGOs act as a mediator between the government and individuals by addressing issues and advocating for the protection of rights. By supporting NGOs, individuals become catalysts for global change. This benefits both sides - donors experience the joy of giving and enjoy tax benefits while NGOs secure the necessary funds for their mission.

Through working for the betterment and upliftment of socio-economically weaker communities, NGOs attempt to bring uniformity in receiving the benefits of the economic growth of the country. When you donate to charity, you lay the foundation to change the future of the world for better.

Akshaya Patra Fuelling Aspirations in Andhra Pradesh

 The Akshaya Patra Foundation is a not-for-profit entity serving mid-day meals (MDM) to 2 million+ government school children of India every single school day. The promise of zero classroom hunger first made in 2000, is yielding results across 67 locations in 15 states and 2 union territories today.

The Government of India mandated the execution of the Mid-Day Meal or MDM Programme (now PM POSHAN Abhiyaan) across the country to incentivise education in government schools. Akshaya Patra, among several other NGOs, became the implementing partner for the MDM programme and has relentlessly addressed classroom hunger ever since. The NGO has also proactively provided food assistance to people during emergencies like floods, rainstorms, droughts and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

NGO in Andhra Pradesh

Akshaya Patra has its largest presence in two of the 15 states it serves. Andhra Pradesh is one of them, with the NGO’s state-of-the-art, centralised kitchens addressing classroom hunger across its 10 locations. 

Akshaya Patra’s association with the state started in 2008 with its centralised kitchen in Visakhapatnam. Today, it has become a well-acclaimed NGO in Andhra Pradesh, nourishing 1.3 lakh+ children from humble backgrounds in Kakinada, Mangalagiri, Nellore, Ghambiram, Gudivada, Srikakulam, Kuppam, Ongole and Kalyandurg.

Recently, the Ghambiram kitchen in Visakhapatnam was certified with ISO 22000:2018. The unit prepares 16 tonnes of rice, 12 litres of dal or sambar and 300 kg of curry every cycle. Despite the enormous amount of food being cooked in the kitchen, its hygiene, quality and safety are not compromised.

These kitchens come to life at 4 in the morning every day and finish cooking by 8.30 AM. But before that, the raw materials are sorted and cleaned thoroughly, and the vessels are sterilised with steam. Customised insulated delivery vehicles then deliver the prepared meals to allotted government schools. Such a setup keeps the food hot and retains its freshness until it reaches the children. 

What goes on the plate?

Pappucharu (a type of sambar), green leafy vegetable dal (lentil curry), rice, sweet pongal (a rice-based sweet dish), vegetable biryani (a popular rice dish), pulihora (tamarind rice), sambar (a mixed vegetable and lentil curry), vegetable curry, raitha (a curd-based side dish), janthikalu (a South Indian savoury snack) and bananas are cyclically served to beneficiary children in Andhra Pradesh every school day. The state government has carefully designed the menu for the Mid-Day Meal Programme to cater to the palatal preferences of these children. Accordingly, Akshaya Patra procures raw materials from approved suppliers, which undergo stringent checks for quantity and quality before being accepted into the kitchen. 

The NGO in Andhra Pradesh follows a rice-based menu in for regional 

acceptability and less food wastage. Additionally, the different components of the meal served ensure that children consume government-approved, balanced proportions of nutrients each day.

Nurturing a compassionate society

Like all Akshaya Patra kitchens, the kitchens in Andhra Pradesh also operate on Public-Private Partnerships and receive government support to run the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan. Through the years, generous contributions from donors have helped the NGO deliver nutritious and safe meals to lakhs of children in thousands of schools, thus incentivising them to come to school, study and excel in areas of their interest. 

A donation of ₹1,500 to Akshaya Patra can provide regular and wholesome meals to a government school student for an entire academic year. These children will then grow up to be qualified professionals in various fields but also be generous and compassionate because of the help they receive as children.

So, let’s join hands and rise together!

Donate online to Akshaya Patra from the comfort of your home to fuel dreams and transform millions of futures!

Dhanteras: A Festival of Prosperity and Giving

 Dhanteras, a significant Hindu festival, marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali celebration. Derived from the Sanskrit words "Dhan" (wealth) and "Teras" (thirteenth), this day is devoted to honouring and invoking the blessings of the Goddess of Wealth, Lakshmi. Celebrated across India, Dhanteras holds immense cultural and religious importance.

The Significance of Dhanteras 

Dhanteras signifies the importance of wealth and prosperity in one's life. It is believed that on this day, the purchase of gold, silver or utensils is auspicious, signifying the accumulation of wealth. People clean and decorate their homes, light oil lamps and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi to seek her blessings for financial well-being.

Celebrations Across India

Dhanteras is celebrated with regional nuances and customs in different states of India. In North India, people follow the tradition of purchasing new utensils and silver coins. In Maharashtra, families offer prayers to Lord Kuber, the treasurer of the Gods and keep their account books ready for the upcoming year. Down south, people light lamps and draw 'Rangoli' patterns at the entrance of their homes.

• In North India, Dhanteras is observed with great enthusiasm. The day typically begins with a thorough cleaning of homes and decorating them with colorful Rangoli designs and flower garlands. Families worship Lord Dhanvantari, the God of Ayurveda, seeking blessings for good health. In the evening, people light oil lamps or diyas to invite wealth and prosperity. Buying new utensils, gold or silver items is a common tradition, signifying the acquisition of wealth and assets.
  
  
• In Maharashtra, Dhanteras is observed as "Vasu Baras" or "Govatsa Dwadashi." Cows and calves are worshipped as a symbol of prosperity and farmers express their gratitude for the cattle's role in their livelihoods. Families prepare a special meal made from freshly harvested grains and offer it to Lord Kuber, the treasurer of the Gods. This day is also an occasion for businesses to start their new financial year.
  
  
• In the southern states of India, Dhanteras is marked by the lighting of traditional oil lamps or "diyas," and creating intricate Kolam or Rangoli designs at the entrance of homes. Families offer prayers to Lord Yama, the God of death, to ward off untimely death and bring blessings. People exchange gifts and sweets with their loved ones. Many also visit temples to seek the blessings of deities associated with prosperity, like Lord Kubera and Goddess Lakshmi.
  
  
• In the western states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, Dhanteras holds special significance for business owners. The day is considered auspicious for opening new account books; many businesses celebrate it as their financial New Year. People also worship their account books and buy assets like gold and silver. In Gujarat, clay idols of the Goddess are created and worshipped with devotion.
  
  
• In Bengal, Dhanteras is celebrated as "Kali Chaudas" and is devoted to the worship of Goddess Kali. The day involves special prayers to the fierce form of the Goddess, seeking protection from evil forces and negative energies. It is also a time for people to wear new clothes and participate in cultural programmes and processions.
  
  
• In Punjab, Dhanteras is celebrated with enthusiasm and traditional fervour. People light lamps or diyas around their homes and offer prayers for prosperity and success. The celebrations often include community gatherings, where people exchange sweets and gifts. Farmers also show their gratitude to their cattle for their role in agriculture.
  
  
• In Tamil Nadu, Dhanteras is celebrated as "Dhanalakshmi Pooja." Families create colourful Rangoli designs and a special pooja is performed in the evening to invoke Goddess Lakshmi's blessings. Many households conduct traditional rituals and offer sweets and fruits to the deity.

While the customs and traditions may vary, the core essence of seeking blessings for wealth, prosperity and good fortune remains a unifying theme.

Dhanteras is not just about wealth accumulation but also about giving. It is believed that by sharing your prosperity, you invite more blessings from Goddess Lakshmi. Many people choose to donate on this day and one commendable way to do so is by contributing towards mid-day meals for underprivileged children.

Donating Mid-Day Meals (MDM)

One impactful way to make a difference on Dhanteras is by supporting initiatives that provide mid-day meals to children in need. These programs ensure that children receive nutritious food, which not only nourishes their bodies but also fuels their dreams and aspirations. Several organisations across India actively work towards this noble cause.

How to Contribute 

You can participate in this meaningful act of charity by donating to well-established organisations that run PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (MDM Programme). Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of underprivileged children, helping them receive education and nourishment simultaneously.

One such NGO that implements the government's PM POSHAN Abhiyaan is The Akshaya Patra Foundation. It is a charity that has been providing school meals to children since 2000. It has gained worldwide recognition for its work and has been feeding meals to over 2 million children coming from challenging socio-economic backgrounds. Let's make this festival better for the less fortunate; let's feed the people in need.

Dhanteras is a celebration of wealth, but it's also a reminder of the importance of giving back. As we buy gold, silver or utensils, let us not forget the joy that comes from helping others. 

This Dhanteras, let's spread the light of prosperity and kindness.

How to decide which NGO to support?

 Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are nonprofit groups of people or institutions that operate on a global, national or local level independently to advance socioeconomic objectives and welfare of the people.

There are two categories of NGOs:

Operational NGOs: These groups concentrate on developing and carrying out development initiatives.

NGO advocacy groups: These groups support or advance a certain cause.

Some NGOs can function as both operational and advocacy NGOs.

Since it is difficult to personally cater to the needs of vulnerable communities, many people donate to NGOs, making an indirect yet a very important contribution to the community in which they live. With lakhs of active non-profit organisations to choose from, it is advised to exercise caution while making donations to NGO fundraising efforts if you want to direct your financial resources towards a cause.

NGOs are crucial to society because they support a wide range of issues, including education, poverty reduction, environmental protection and human rights. NGOs frequently focus on tackling certain social, economic and environmental challenges and strive to improve society. An excellent method to make a difference and support the causes you care about is to support an NGO.

Supporting the right NGO is crucial—be it the pursuit of a cause that matches with your beliefs or be it having a positive impact on the world.

How to check the authenticity of NGOs?

Since non-profit organisations cannot turn a profit, they solicit donations in order to maintain or expand their programmes and continue making an impact. If you wish to donate money, you must first get well-versed with the cause; i.e., comprehend the seriousness of the problem the NGO is attempting to solve and the impact and importance of the solution.

In order to fulfil our moral obligation to those in need, it is our duty as humans to support the welfare efforts—one way of doing this is by assisting nonprofit organisations.

Here are some justifications for your support of NGOs. 

• The cause is honourable. 

• It is a means of contributing to society.

• You have the chance to assist those in need.

• You have the opportunity to express sympathy, empathy and compassion.

• Spiritual fulfilment is the result.

There are various NGOs that work in a variety of fields. Find an NGO that promotes a cause you can get behind and that resonates with you.

Here are a few questions that will help you decide which NGO you should support: 

1.What share of your donation is utilised for the cause?

 The NGO should devote at least 80% of your donation to the subject it supports.  

2.Do you have access the outcome of your donation?

Pay attention to where your money is going, even a little bit of it. Be ready to assess the results of your humanitarian work. A good NGO will always pay attention to transparency and accountability. It will put the details of donations received and programme/administrative expenditure in public domain through annual reports and official website to ensure that donors know how their money is being spent.

3.What are the qualities of a genuine NGO?

A true NGO should uphold the policies set by the administration.  It will also provide you with a receipt for your donations. You could use this receipt as proof that you recently gave money to an authorised, registered NGO. A real NGO would always register under 80G Certification, which may allow donors to simply acquire a tax exemption.  

4.What motivates donors to make donation?

A good and successful NGO has a clearly defined set of goals, guiding ideals and ethos that motivates donors to make donations.

5.What are the characteristics of a genuine NGO?

One of the key characteristics of a genuine NGO is having a positive relationship with the donors. A genuine NGO operates with complete accountability, transparency and democracy and will constantly consider the ideas and opinions of each group member during discussions and brainstorming sessions.  

Regardless of the niche they occupy or their operational scale, NGOs play a crucial role in ensuring the welfare efforts. However, they often find themselves relying on people’s inclination to give or do charity. That’s where your support comes into the picture. You may support NGOs like The Akshaya Patra Foundation that upholds the standard of its cause, making it one of the most trustworthy organisations in India to give to. With access to the two requirements of nutrition and education, your donation to the NGO will help children realise their full potential.

Celebrating the Joy of Giving: Daan Utsav - A Week of Generosity

In the heart of India, as autumn leaves start to fall, a different kind of warmth envelopes the country. It's a warmth not driven by the changing seasons, but by a shared sentiment that transcends borders, languages and backgrounds. This is the "Joy of Giving Week," known as Daan Utsav in India – a week dedicated to spreading love, compassion and joy through acts of kindness and generosity.

What is Joy of Giving Week?

The Joy of Giving week is an annual week-long celebration of giving. Held from 2 October to 8 October, it's a time when individuals, communities and organisations come together to give back to society. Whether it's donating time, money, skills or simply spreading kindness, Daan Utsav encourages everyone to partake in acts of benevolence.

Reasons to Celebrate 

• The Joy of Giving week serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility towards the less fortunate. It fosters a culture of compassion and reminds us that helping those in need is not just a duty but a privilege.
• This week of giving strengthens the bonds within communities. It encourages people to come together, collaborate and support local NGOs and charitable causes like providing mid-day meals to underprivileged children.
• Joy of Giving week amplifies the collective impact of philanthropic efforts. NGOs can benefit from increased support and visibility during this time.

Benefits of Giving

Contributing, whether during the Joy of Giving week or throughout the year, offers several benefits:

1. Personal fulfilment

Giving provides a profound sense of fulfilment and purpose. It connects individuals with a higher sense of meaning in their lives.

2. Positive mental health

Studies have shown that giving can improve mental health by reducing stress and boosting overall happiness.

3. Strengthening communities

Generosity strengthens the fabric of communities, promoting a sense of unity among people.

Different Ways of Celebrating 

Joy of Giving week encourages a wide range of activities to spread joy and compassion:

• Donate to NGOs: In today’s digital world, donating online has become more accessible than ever. Supporters can easily contribute through online platforms, making it convenient for individuals, near and far, to support various causes.
  
  
• Volunteer: Giving one's time and skills is a priceless gift. Volunteers can help prepare and distribute meals, organise events or offer their expertise to further the mission of NGOs.
  
  
• Feed people in need: Daan Utsav places special emphasis on feeding those in need. Individuals and organisations can collaborate with NGOs, such as The Akshaya Patra Foundation to ensure that classroom hunger can be eliminated.
  
  
• Provide educational support: Another meaningful way to celebrate is by supporting education-related causes. This could include donating books, stationery or funding scholarships for underprivileged students.
  
  
• Perform acts of kindness: Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can make a big difference. Something as simple as distributing meals to the homeless or visiting an elderly care home can brighten lives.

In conclusion, the Joy of Giving week, is a beautiful celebration of humanity's inherent kindness and compassion. It reminds us that the greatest joys often come from giving and the impact of actions can be profound. It is an opportunity for everyone, from individuals to businesses, to come together and make a positive difference in the world.

For NGOs serving meals, like Akshaya Patra, Daan Utsav is not just a week of celebration but a crucial time to ensure that every individual receives the nourishment they need.

Let us join hands, spread the joy of giving and work towards a world where kindness and compassion prevail.