Freedom from classroom hunger, on this independence day

 Independence Day is just around the corner. India became independent after years of British rule on 15 August, 1947; thanks to the sacrifices of our freedom fighters. As a mark of respect for their valiant efforts, Independence Day is celebrated with great passion across the country.

The occasion is celebrated in a variety of ways, including hoisting the flag, distributing sweets, delivering speeches and even making pledges. In fact, the momentous occasion of Independence Day is a good day to reiterate our commitment to social good to free people from poverty, hunger, illiteracy, etc.

Freedom from Hunger

Hunger is more than lack of food. It is a crisis that has nearly a billion people in its grip. Nearly 1/3 of the produce worldwide is wasted. This shows that there is plenty of food available around the world, but there is an unequal distribution. The challenge is to make food consistently accessible to everyone who needs it; not the lack of food.

There are numerous people and organisations that provide a ray of hope. They are doing everything they can to address hunger and malnutrition. These range from modest projects like providing food to a few hundred homeless people in the neighbourhood to large-scale campaigns by the government and NGOs that feed millions.

Addressing Classroom Hunger

Classroom hunger is an issue that The Akshaya Patra Foundation seeks to address in its capacity as the implementing partner of PM POSHAN (formerly Mid-Day Meal Scheme). They started with the feeding of 1,500 children in Bengaluru two decades ago. Today, they have established 67 kitchens across the country with the help of government and patrons to serve hot and nutritious mid-day meals to government and government-aided school children. Their centralised kitchens are currently present in 15 states and 2 UTs, enabling them to provide for more than 2 million children after beginning one evening out of a desire to feed 1,500 children.

The goal of this initiative is to end classroom hunger in India by serving nutritious mid-day meals to children in schools. Children are encouraged to attend school with the help of a mid-day meal, which meets their nutritional demands.

When children are well-fed, their academic performance improves along with their co-curricular activities, which, in turn, allows them to pursue their dreams. This is a massive step towards improving their lives and the future of India.

With the collective effort of individuals, charities and NGOs and the government, the classroom hunger scenario in India can be altered. This is the underlying belief at Akshaya Patra.

On the eve of Independence Day, there are many things for which people should be grateful. At the same time, everyone should spare a thought for those with limited opportunities. Together, it is possible to work towards a world where children are free from classroom hunger and malnutrition. Together, it is possible to ensure that the next generation is raised in a healthy environment and equipped to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

Let’s celebrate India’s freedom – Freedom from hunger.