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. 

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.

Raksha Bandhan: Extend the bond of love and care

 Raksha Bandhan holds great importance in Indian culture and tradition. Though the festival has evolved with time, the true essence of it is not lost. It still inspires people to come together and celebrate it with love and joy. It enables people to create special memories with their loved ones. This festival closely knit families together.

How Raksha Bandhan is celebrated traditionally

Raksha Bandhan is one of the major festivals celebrated in India. Special poojas (rituals) are conducted on the occasion and people wear ethnic clothes. Sisters apply a tilak (a distinctive spot of colored powder worn on the forehead) on their brother's forehead to start the celebration. This is then followed by the tying of a rakhi (sacred wristband) and the exchange of sweets and gifts. This festival is observed during Purnima - the day of the full moon. Brothers promise to look after their sisters and protect them, while sisters pray for the well-being of their brothers.

How you can share happiness this Raksha Bandhan

To extend the bond of love and care beyond the traditional way of celebrating Raksha Bandhan and rejoicing it differently, below are a few ways:

1. Storytelling session for children

There are numerous historical accounts of Raksha Bandhan. The well-known legends of Yama and the Yamuna, Krishna and Draupadi, Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun, Goddess Lakshmi and King Bali, Roxana and King Porus can be recited to children. Children enjoy reading and listening to stories, so why not choose ones that bring out the significance of the festivals.

2. Tie rakhi to healthcare professionals, housekeeping staff

Healthcare professionals, housekeeping staff are always on their toes ensuring that people lead their lives in comfort. Often they have to overcome some of their toughest difficulties while still delivering top-notch care. This Raksha Bandhan, healthcare professionals can be honoured by tying rakhi on their wrists. 

3. Pledge to protect nature

Humans owe nature a debt of gratitude. Since it has given so much to humankind, it is now our responsibility to give something in return. By promising to take care of nature and not exploiting them needlessly, one can serve as an example to others. What counts is the respect and homage humans show for nature.

4. Show love to animals 

It is the duty of humans to take care of animals and feed them. One can tie this "token of love" to animals, neighbourhood cats or dogs, or cows and make a promise never to hurt them and always take care of them.

5. Feed children in need

Raksha Bandhan’s spirit of love and care can be extended by promising to feed children who come from families with low socio-economic backgrounds. This festival, you can safeguard the lives of those in need and extend your circle of care by upholding children’s nutrition and education. Donations can be made to NGOs that work for children like The Akshaya Patra Foundation that provides nutritious mid-day meals every day under the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan. 

This Raksha Bandhan, ensure a beautiful present and a bright future for everyone. Your resolve to do something for others will increase the significance of this memorable day.

10 reasons why NGOs are important

 The world will become a better place when one takes care of their fellow beings and helps those in need. Each day, many people or communities are facing several challenges such as poverty, unemployment, natural disasters etc. To address and solve these issues there are several government agencies as well as multiple Non-Profit Organisations (NGOs) instituted.

NGOs are a hub of like-minded people and subject-matter experts who work together for a common cause. They pool all the resources to resolve societal challenges with a systematic approach.

NGOs bring awareness to social issues to bring people together in order to work for the betterment of society. 

Let’s dive into the list of reasons why NGOs are important:

1.Ensure human rights for all

NGOs educate the public about human rights. Numerous NGOs concentrate on humanitarian issues like poverty, hunger, gender-based violence, and other forms of social injustice. They draw attention to human rights abuses and educate people about them to address all concerns of this nature. 

2.Ensure medical care

Every individual has the right to live healthily. NGOs reach out to people who are living in hard-to-reach places and provide medical support to improve their health. They provide free surgeries and medical checkups for those in need. Thus, they improve the quality of life of people who are otherwise deprived of good treatment.

3.They assist during outbreaks and pandemics

It is NGOs that respond quickly when there is a sudden emergency. Recently, with the outbreak of the novel Coronavirus, the Prime Minister asked for the support of NGOs to implement measures to reach the last-mile people. They respond immediately with food, water and medical services. By raising awareness and offering proper health advice, they make sure that individuals are adopting preventative measures that reduce their risk of contracting the disease and help to contain outbreaks.  

4.Address socio-economic issues

NGOs are the best option to understand the grassroot of any socio-economic issue. They create awareness about combating several socio-economic challenges that stand as a hindrance to the growth of the country. 

5.They help during natural calamities

The impact of natural calamities is huge. During such times, everyone will be vulnerable to the unprecedented chaos it caused, leaving no one sure how to respond. In these situations, the government collaborates with NGOs to quickly respond to disasters and distribute aid effectively.

6.They encourage gender equality

Lack of education is mainly linked to poverty, safety etc. Compared to boys, girls are more likely to miss school. There are many NGOs that focus on the education of girls to ensure that they are receiving equal opportunities to build their future. 

7.They protect democracy

NGOs safeguard democracy by carefully monitoring the problems and supporting the government to bring about the changes necessary for the better functioning of society.

8.Supports to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

NGOs aid a nation's performance in achieving SDGs, maintaining progressive development, enhancing governance, and ultimately building a more sustainable future for all.

9.Implements Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

NGOs are the best CSR implementing partners. They have enough experts to accomplish social responsibility projects. They provide training, additional manpower and channel revenue streams to execute different projects. Through partnership with the business community, they contribute to the less visible and vulnerable population, find solutions to their problems and thus fight against all inequalities prevalent in society.

10.Protect children from malnutrition

Several NGOs work solely to protect children from malnutrition and support their education. Akshaya Patra is such an organisation that aims to eradicate classroom hunger by providing mid-day meals to government and government-aided schools. Currently, the organisation feeds over 2 million children every day.

Therefore, NGOs play a crucial role in the social, political and developmental activities. Through partnership, NGOs offer various social services, uphold everyone’s fundamental rights and encourage individuals to actively participate in such welfare programmmes.

Meals and Beyond: Doubling Our Impact

 The Akshaya Patra Foundation is a non-profit organisation that works to combat malnutrition and classroom hunger in Indian schools. Akshaya Patra strives to encourage students to attend school at the same time by implementing the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (earlier known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme) in government and government-aided schools. Since 2000, Akshaya Patra has tried to provide students with nutritional nourishment every school day. To serve millions of children, the Foundation is constantly utilising technology. Its cutting-edge kitchens have attracted fascinated tourists from all over the world and have become a subject of study. Currently, the organisation serves mid-day meals to over 2 million children every day.

Any attempts to attain ‘learning for all’ and a ‘healthy society’ should be centred on children. Investing in education is a crucial step towards both human and economic growth. Children from vulnerable communities, who are largely affected by inadequate educational opportunities and nutritional access, must receive special support in school to help them overcome these obstacles. Expanding its Circle of Care in order to support the holistic development of children, Akshaya Patra started Beyond The Meals initiative. 

Beyond The Meals

Abhay Remedial Classes

We at The Akshaya Patra Foundation firmly believe that today's children will carry the torch for tomorrow, hence it is crucial that we support them during their formative years by combining thoughtful nutritional and educational initiatives.

The Foundation's Vrindavan kitchen in Uttar Pradesh's catchment area hosted the Abhay initiative's pilot launch in 2018. The programme was founded on the idea that, in order to fully realise the immense potential and limitless abilities that reside inside our children, especially in rural India, we must protect their right to an education.

The Abhay Remedial Classes works on two fronts: first, to improve students' fundamental learning skills (i.e., their capacity to read simple text and perform basic maths), and second, to assist their general development through extracurricular activities. Every day from Monday through Saturday between 4 pm to 6 pm in the evening, remedial classes are held. Additionally, children are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities including painting, games, making crafts out of trash, singing and so on in addition to their education.

“I have started coming here regularly in the evening. It has helped me improve at studies. Now I can read English text, which I was not able to earlier. In Maths, I have improved in multiplication and division,” says Sonu Singh, a student of the Abhay initiative.

National Endeavour for Student Transformation (NEST)

The National Endeavour for Student Transformation (NEST), a beyond-meals project by Akshaya Patra to widen our circle of care, was introduced in 2019.  All of the NEST initiatives were developed with the goal of improving the educational opportunities offered to students in Government and Aided Schools across the country through collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking. 

The goal of NEST initiative is to support the overall development of the nation's future generation. These programmes range from developing students' creative abilities in a secure learning environment to providing financial assistance to students from low-income households.  

The Foundation runs three programmes under the NEST initiative. They are:

Digital Education Programme: This is a part of Akshaya Patra's flagship NEST campaign, which collaborates with the government school system to enhance educational quality, foster an environment that fosters exceptional learning outcomes and make learning enjoyable. 

As part of this initiative, BYJU'S provides students free streaming licences and smart classrooms so they may access top-notch, technologically advanced educational programming. While various technology partners provide tabs for students.

This programme strives to bridge the digital learning gap among children coming from backgrounds with limited opportunities.

School Rejuvenation Programme: This aims to create a secure and long-lasting learning environment for government school children. The programme's main goal is to improve the infrastructure of schools, from providing boys and girls with separate restrooms and adequate drinking water facilities to increasing enrollment and retention rates and improving academic results in the classroom.  

AVSAR Scholarship Programme: The scholarship programme works to support deserving students who are seeking post-secondary education financial aid so they can better plan their futures. Additionally, through providing financial aid, this effort seeks to lower dropout rates and help them in achieving their dreams.

Akshaya Patra has been a pioneer in promoting education among the underserved sections of the community. From creating opportunities for children to pursue quality education, the Foundation has continuously strived to provide the latest educational tools and techniques to children who have restricted access to opportunities. The above initiatives cater to thousands of children every day. Your collective support is a must to keep the momentum going. 

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.

Nutrition Literacy: Shaping Future of Children & Youth

 The ability required to comprehend the significance of healthy eating for preserving health is referred to as nutrition literacy. The initial goal of nutrition literacy is to improve people's understanding of food so they can better decide which foods and in what amounts are necessary to maintain health.

Consumers today enjoy an unheard-of variety of food products. It is also very easy to find information on food to make sure that what we eat is nourishing.

Understanding the fundamental nutrient groups and their distinct functions in preserving health as well as their dietary sources is provided via nutrition literacy referred to as the "Food Pyramid".

The Food Pyramid addresses every aspect of nutrition intake and facets like vitamin D and multivitamin supplements. By encouraging healthy eating habits and diets, nutrition literacy helps to lower the chance of developing chronic diseases like obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Information about food supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytonutrients, that may be necessary in specific situations to meet nutritional demands, is also provided by nutrition literacy. It also includes providing information on eating disorders, that include anorexia nervosa, bulimia and binge eating disorder.

Beyond the fundamentals of reading, writing, speaking and listening, nutrition literacy also includes the abilities needed to comprehend and interpret the frequently complex information regarding foods and their nutrients.

For many families, eating healthfully and reaping its numerous benefits is not easy. Children, especially, have little knowledge about where the food comes from or how certain foods affect their general health. Sustainability in health is a complex problem with many facets.

By teaching children about nutrition literacy, our schools may significantly contribute to changing eating habits. A child’s knowledge about nutrition helps them in the consumption of healthy food which in turn plays a significant role in supporting their good health and preventing illnesses. Therefore, teachers are also encouraged to teach children about nutrition in schools.  

In March 2019, IMPAct4Nutrtion, an initiative convened by UNICEF, Tata Trusts, Sight and Life, CSRBOX, CII, WeCan and NASSCOM Foundation was launched in New Delhi. IMPAct4Nutrition is a platform for the private sector to actively engage and build a social movement with their employees, customers and employees’ families who form a part of their business ecosystem and support the POSHAN Abhiyaan. The platform helps in engaging and supporting the private sector to increase nutrition awareness and improve Nutrition Literacy – or health, hygiene, food and literacy. Besides becoming a part of the POSHAN Abhiyaan, it has also given companies a chance to impact social and economic change by promoting malnutrition-free families.

The PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (previously known as the Mid-Day Meal Programme) is the largest school-feeding programme in India that prioritises monitoring school children's nutritional status in addition to serving them nutritious meals.

PM POSHAN Abhiyaan, was introduced by the government on August 15, 1995. To provide children in primary school (Class I to V) with one meal each day, the programme was introduced in 2,408 blocks across the nation. Following a Supreme Court decision from the same year, dated November 28, it was later rendered universal by expanding the coverage to all government and government-aided schools in 2001. In 2007, the programme's reach was expanded to include students in Upper Primary (Classes VI through VIII).

In the hope of receiving a nutritious meal, millions of children in India go to school. Community involvement and monitoring, together with ongoing government efforts, are the greatest ways to guarantee efficient implementation of MDM.

Through community involvement, we nurture and nourish children and encourage them to pursue their education that helps them mould a better future. For more than two decades, Bengaluru-based NGO The AkshayaPatra Foundation has served as the programme's implementing partner.

The organisation also strives to educate  children how to use nutritional information to build healthy eating habits through nutrition literacy by making children aware about nutrition-focused health outcomes with the help of its individual and corporate partners.

Beating Hunger with Mid-Day Meals

"An empty stomach is not a good political advisor." 

These timeless words of Albert Einstein encapsulate the profound connection between hunger and the well-being of nations. 

Hunger remains a burning issue globally, with millions of people in developing and underdeveloped countries struggling to secure their daily sustenance. One among the developing nations, India is making significant strides in combating this challenge, where government initiatives like the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (earlier called the Mid-Day Meal or MDM Programme) have garnered much acclaim. 

Today, India is the most populous country in the world, and yet has shown remarkable progress on both the political and economic front. But it also understands the threat of chronic hunger and the need to support its socioeconomically challenged communities in ending the vicious cycle of poverty and the resulting malnourishment.

Providing nutritious school meals is a successful intervention by the Indian government in this domain. It not only guarantees the well-being of government school children from low-income families but also addresses the underlying issues in economic growth, education, sustainable progress and inclusive development. 

By collaborating with government bodies, local authorities and self-help groups, PM POSHAN Abhiyaan also helps empower underprivileged communities by employing them or using raw materials and other resources they produce.

Battling Hunger with Mid-Day Meals

The Government of India started the Mid-Day Meal or MDM Programme (now called the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan) in 2001 to support children's growth requirements with free nutritious meals in government and government-aided primary schools.

Several NGOs partnered with the government for the effective implementation of the programme and promote its zero hunger goals. The Akshaya Patra Foundation is one of these NGOs that works in a public-private partnership to provide mid-day meals to school children from underserved communities. 

Nutritional Guidelines for Mid-Day Meal Preparation

Guidelines by the Supreme Court of India

• Every child must get a minimum of 300 calories and 8-12 grams of protein per day.

• Adequate nutrition must be provided on all school days for a minimum of 200 days.

Mid-Day Meal Guidelines by the Ministry of Education

• Every meal must contain carbohydrates, proteins and micronutrients, such as iron, folic acid, Vitamin A, etc.

• Primary school children must receive at least 450 calories with 12 grams of protein

• Upper primary and secondary school children must receive 700 calories with 20 grams of protein.

Donate online towards Zero Hunger and avail tax exemption

Hunger erodes the very foundation of progress. Those suffering from malnutrition struggle to tap into their true potential, leaving the nation bereft of future scientists, artists and political leaders. Just as "you cannot make bricks without straw", we must first address hunger to attain a robust and thriving India. 

Thus, let us unite and ensure that no stomach remains empty and no dreams are left unfulfilled. Let us be the architects of change by contributing towards mid-day meals for school children and build a nation where no one knows the pangs of hunger.

When you donate to registered NGOs in India, you also become eligible to avail tax exemption on every contribution you make

This Father's day, Feed the Children. Be a star in their life.

 Mothers are often called the epitome of love and care. If so, then fathers can be called the epitome of subtleties. Though they have the same feelings for their children, fathers are not expressive as mothers are. Still, the father notices even the subtle things a child needs. From holding hands while being in a crowded place to replacing a dysfunctional bulb in a room, a father eyes everything. It may be because of this subtle approach that fatherhood is not praised as much as it deserves.

How did we start celebrating Father’s Day?

Every year, we celebrate Father's Day on the third Sunday in June to honour the love, care, and protection that fathers have given to their children. The idea of celebrating Father’s Day was put forward by a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd, who was raised by a widower after losing her mother while giving birth to their sixth child. On a Mother’s Day, while listening to a sermon in a church where everyone was cherishing the memories of their mothers, her mind was filled with the thoughts of her father and all the things he had done for her and her siblings. She decided that fathers should also have a day to celebrate and honour their contributions to a child’s development. As a result of Sonora’s efforts, the first Father’s Day was celebrated on 19 June 1910, in Spokane, Washington. 

However, it didn’t gain much popularity then due to the lack of support from men. They viewed it as an attempt to lessen the manliness by domesticating men with gifts and flowers. It took several years for the official recognition of the Father’s Day.

A father plays a major role in raising a stable, healthy, and happy family. We often overlook the sacrifices and hard work our fathers do for giving us a good quality life. Father’s Day is an opportunity to thank them for all the sweat they shed for us and to appreciate the love they are giving us abundantly. 

Some ideas for celebrating Father’s Day.

• Make a card for your father 

Love expressed in written words can have profound effect on human beings. Prepare a card for your father that expresses your love for him.

• Prepare your father’s favourite dish

Surprise your father by preparing his favourite meal and enjoy it together. Having food together can strengthen the bond of human relationships.

• Plan a family trip according to your budget.

In this busy world with full of distractions, going for a trip together can help us stay connected with loved ones. Going for a trip will create an ambience to enjoy a special moment with your father.

• Donate to any NGO like Akshaya Patra

Celebrate this Father’s Day with an act of kindness, like donating to NGOs. This gives you a kind of satisfaction and encourages you to view life from a broader perspective. Donating to NGOs will give us a feeling of gratitude for everyone and everything that we have in our life.

Akshaya Patra is an NGO in India that aims to put an end to classroom hunger by implementing the PM Poshan Abhiyaan (Mid-Day Meal Programme) in government and government-aided schools. As part of its vision to ensure that no child is denied their right to education due to hunger, the organisation keeps an uncompromising commitment to provide nutrient-rich meals to the children throughout their academic year. 

Malnutrition is a serious threat that harms the budding youth. Children from financially challenging backgrounds are especially prone to this issue. No one can find solution to this issue alone. Join hands with NGOs like Akshaya Patra and support their effort to put an end to classroom hunger. 

Just as fathers work for the well-being of their children, we can act together for the upbringing of a healthy and educated India. Let this Father’s Day be a wonderful opportunity to spread the spirit of love and kindness to our fellow beings.

Nourishing children with meals as they come #BackToSchool

 Every corridor and classroom missed the giggles and chatter of children during the summer break. With the holidays coming to end, children are ready for a new start towards a better future. However, there are children in India who come from backgrounds with limited opportunities. To support these children and ensure their return to school is memorable, several NGOs run #BackToSchool campaigns that help in the overall development of children and raise awareness against hunger and work towards achieving the UN Sustainable Goal of ‘Zero Hunger’.

Akshaya Patra organises a comprehensive Back to School campaign to make sure that every child has access to mid-day meals every school day and that no child is denied their right to an education because of their socioeconomic circumstances, family history or any other reason. This campaign aims to increase understanding of and support for midday meals, which are essential for ensuring that children from challenging backgrounds continue their education.

Education breeds a better tomorrow

The cornerstone of a child's future wellbeing is education. Education opens up many options for children to live better lives. It has the potential to influence society as a whole. An individual can assist the nation's growth and advancement at a quicker rate if they have the proper education. 

Schools are gateways to education. Since most children still don't know what they want to accomplish with their lives, school helps them learn about themselves and the outside world. 

The PM POSHAN Abhiyaan is a scheme that helps children from challenging backgrounds come to school every day and continue their education, enabling them to strive for a better tomorrow. 

PM POSHAN Abhiyaan: How it motivates children to come #backtoschool

The Government of India’s PM POSHAN Abhiyaan strives to enhance children's nutritional profiles through wholesome mid-day meals every school day. Earlier known as the Mid-Day Meal Programme, this scheme plays a major role in bringing children back to school. There are many children who struggle to have one nutritious meal every day because of their family’s financial limitations. So, Mid-Day Meal (MDM) acts as an incentive that encourages parents to send their children to school.

This account below will explain the significance of PM POSHAN Abhiyaan in helping children return to school. Bhagya Heeraiah Hiremath is a Class 7 student of GHPS Rajeevgandhinagar at Dharwad in Karnataka. She is a beneficiary of the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan implemented by The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

NGOs in India constantly strive to provide the best resources to underprivileged children and help them pursue their education and dreams. Your contribution to NGOs like Akshaya Patra will enable children with another year of learning and healthy school meals. 

Feed children- Let them learn and grow

 Summer vacation is about to end. The schools that are vacant right now are soon going to echo with the voices of students and the sound of school bells ringing. Rendering of poems, the scent of new textbooks and rustling of the pages are going to fill the classrooms and corridors with activity. The children are preparing to go back to school. 

The majority of children in government and government-aided schools are from disadvantaged backgrounds. Even though the kids love being on vacation, they also miss their classmates, school activities, and mid-day meals they receive in school.  

So it is really important to ensure that no child is denied their right to receive education due to their financial limitations, family background, or any other issue and it is equally important to provide children with nutrient-rich food which is essential for their physical and cognitive development occurs during this school-going age.

Education-The cornerstone of the country’s development

The importance of education is much more than one can imagine. In this fast-changing world, education plays a crucial role in the development of society.

The purpose of education is to guide one to understand themselves, to connect with their fellow beings, and to be tolerant. Children must receive a formal education for developing social skills, thinking critically and acquiring other expertise to achieve their goals. This happens only when they go to school.

Schools are the foundation for building a nation that thrives in every sector, and so it is really important to bring children back to school. PM POSHAN Abhiyaan is one such effective programme launched by the Indian government to encourage children to continue their education in the face of any obstacles that could prevent them from finishing their education.

PM POSHAN Abhiyaan

The Government of India is on track to address several challenges that we face as a developing country. One such challenge is classroom hunger. To address this, the government launched a scheme called PM POSHAN Abhiyaan with the goal of enhancing children's nutritional profiles.

The PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (previously known as the Mid-Day Meal Programme) plays a major role in bringing children back to school. There are many children who struggle to have one nutritious meal every day because of their family’s financial limitations. So, Mid-Day Meal (MDM) acts as an incentive that encourages parents to send their children to school. 

Akshaya Patra, an NGO that runs on a public-private partnership model, strives to end classroom hunger and help children pursue their education and aspirations. So far, the organisation is providing hot, nutritious, safe and tasty mid-day meals to over 2 million students across the country. The image of a room full of well-nourished children is what motivates the organisation to work consistently to reach out to as many children as possible. With the support of the government, corporates and individuals, Akshaya Patra strives to feed 3 million children by 2025.

Feed the children. Keep them smiling.

School: HPKGS Hubballi

“I enjoy eating Dal and Pulav that are served on some days in school by The Akshaya Patra Foundation as part of their Mid-Day Meal Programme. I also like the other dishes that they serve.”

School: Panvel Mahanagar Palike School 

School: Prathamik Vidyalaya, Naglai Station, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Akshaya Patra’s dream is to nurture all the children with nutrient-rich food. With the support of the government, numerous companies and philanthropists all over the world, the organisation has made significant strides in the number of beneficiaries. Consider providing a contribution to help us achieve our mission of feeding 3 million children by 2025.

School – where children explore, dream & discover

 Every student's education at school helps in the discovery of their individual passions and interests. In a sense, school sets the way for children to design their career paths and rungs on the ladder to a prosperous future.

Why Schooling is Important for Children?

School is the primary source of education for a child. It gives children the ability to learn about many things, including people, literature, history, math, politics and social science. 

A school is also responsible for the overall development of children as this is where they learn about cultural diversity and moral values like honesty, respect, integrity, harmony and so on. It is also the first step to higher education and consequently, a good career and quality life.

School helps children socialise

Children have the opportunity to interact with other children of the same age-group by going to school. While some children just interact with their classmates, others develop lifelong friendships. Socialising and meeting new people also extend their horizons in terms of knowledge. 

School keeps children engaged

Being idle all day can be really boring and exhausting. Going to school keeps children active and teaches them other valuable skills, in addition to keeping them active.

School makes children vocal and instills confidence

Schooling instills confidence among children and they become more vocal as they have new ideas and thoughts about various topics. School teaches children to question and understand everything rationally. 

School contributes towards overall development

The days when learning just involved memorising historical events, cracking difficult math problems, and memorising sonnets and poems are long gone. Today, education is a child's first step in life, where he or she learns a lot more than merely memorising facts. One of the many things a school gives a child is the ability to develop and refine their interests. Other things include learning the basics of manners, becoming proficient at multitasking and enhancing their social skills.

Apart from the above advantages, schooling trains children to live a civilised and cultured life when they grow up. Schooling brings self-discipline among children and makes them responsible. School enables children to read, write, speak and express themselves adequately and shapes their personality.

To ensure that children get the best of everything in terms of education, growth and more, as they come back to school for a new academic year, supporting children from backgrounds with limited resources through NGOs like Akshaya Patra, can go a long way. Every donation made towards the NGO guarantees nutritious mid-day meals to government school children every day, thus allowing them to focus on their academics and other co-curricular activities. 

These meals simultaneously aim to improve the nutritional level of children and enhance their enrolment, retention, and attendance at schools. Akshaya Patra’s 67 kitchens cook and deliver the meals to over 22,000 school across 15 states and 2 UTs. 

Make ‘Back to School’ memorable for children and help the future generation fulfil their dreams and keep their hopes alive.

Experience a mother’s selfless emotions this Mother’s Day

 Mother’s Day is observed worldwide to honour all mothers and the values they embody. It evokes feelings of love, gratitude and appreciation for the women who endure to bring us to this world and fight against the odds to nurture us throughout their lives. 

While we celebrate our own mothers who ensure that we grow up amidst all comforts of life, we must also remember countless children who cannot access necessities like food, shelter and education. So, let us take a moment to appreciate the motherly efforts of not-for-profit organisations that support these children with the resources they need and deserve to develop to their full potential.  

In developing countries like India, where NGOs’ child welfare efforts are more desperately needed, The Akshaya Patra Foundation is helping turn the tide. 

Akshaya Patra has been working with the government in India for 22 years to serve freshly-cooked, safe and nutritious mid-day meals to children from low-income families every day. This commendable collaboration to implement PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal or MDM Programme) has successfully incentivised them to attend school regularly and significantly improved their academic and non-academic performance, thus helping them persevere for the life they desire.

The compassionate kitchens of Akshaya Patra

The NGO’s name is derived from the Sanskrit word “Akshaya” meaning “endless” or “imperishable” — synonymous with the unending and unconditional love of a generous mother and also a fitting name for an organisation that undergoes constant technological advancement to serve its beneficiaries ceaselessly. All its kitchens strictly adhere to international hygiene standards, 27 of which are ISO-certified. 

Furthermore, utmost care is taken at all stages of MDM production.

• Freshness of the raw materials ensured in all the kitchens by following the FIFO (First In First Out) and FEFO (First Expiry First Out) methods

• Cooking utensils made of food-safe SS 304 Grade that are sanitised before every use

• Kaizen, 5S, GMP, CI Projects and Six Sigma methodologies followed for constant improvement and involvement of every member in the kitchen

• Meals prepared from a standardised cyclical menu to ensure balanced and locally-palatable meals for children on all days 

• Well-structured Quality Assurance programme implemented during Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production stages of meal preparation

• Cooked meals safely delivered every day in customised delivery vans

• Daily feedback taken from schools while delivering the meals

• Audits and surveys conducted on a daily, monthly and yearly basis

And just like a mother, the kitchens rev up before sunrise to deliver fresh and fulfilling meals to all its beneficiaries on time.

Care for children by supporting PM POSHAN Abhiyaan this Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a day to appreciate the selflessness and unconditional love of mothers, and Akshaya Patra’s work is a reflection of these values. Its mission to provide nutritious school meals to children every day is a testament to the fact that the love and care of a mother extend beyond her own child. 

The NGO’s endeavour is a call to action for all of us to step up and do our part in ensuring that every child has access to the resources they need to thrive, just like our own mothers ensured that we had everything we needed to succeed.

Consider contributing to nourish children this Mother’s Day!

₹1,500 feeds a child in a government school for a year.

Celebrate this Akshaya Tritiya, by feeding meals with Akshaya Patra

 Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej, is revered as a sacred day by Hindus and Jains. Akshaya Tritiya takes place on the Shukla Paksha Tritiya in the lunar month of Vaishakh. People use this auspicious day to start new businesses, jobs or charitable endeavours. They also pay respect to their departed parents and ancestors. Since it is considered to be the most auspicious day as per the Hindu calendar, all the activities undertaken on this day bring desired results.

It is considered auspicious to purchase gold and silver on this day. By investing in gold and silver, one is thought to receive the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, who represents wealth and success. The logic behind this long-standing custom is that buying gold is always profitable and it will always have a good resale value.

Hindu texts state that this day has a lot of significance. On this day, Lord Parashuram, Lord Vishnu's sixth avatar, is said to have manifested. In addition, it is also stated that the Holy Ganga arrived on Earth on Akshaya Tritiya to grant King Bhagiratha's afflicted forefathers’ nirvana.

This day also heralds the start of Treta-yuga, the second of the Yuga Cycle's four yugas. It's also believed that Sudama paid Lord Krishna a visit at Dwarka on Akshaya Tritiya. Adi Sankaracharya wrote the Kanakadhara Stotram and Vyasadeva began work on the Mahabharata on this auspicious day. In addition, Lord Kubera is also said to have received his role as the wealth custodian on Akshaya Tritiya.

Akshaya signifies limitless or never ending in Sanskrit. According to a legend, on this day, the Sun God gave the Pandavas the Akshaya Patra, an endless store of food that they would never run out of. The story has immense significance in the context of our 22-year journey which we started to provide children unlimited food for education. 

Celebrate Akshaya Tritiya this April 22, 2023, with The Akshaya Patra Foundation, which offers children in government schools the "Akshaya Patra" of limitless food for education.

Akshaya Tritiya – An Auspicious Day for Charity

As per Vedic texts, in the past, the kings and wealthy members of society would conduct sacrifices (yajna) and give away their wealth. This engagement in charitable endeavours was either out of compassion for others or for their own spiritual development.

In the Bhagavad Gita, it is advised to perform charity and support a deserving individual at an appropriate moment and place, without expecting anything in return. It is also said that one should never stop engaging in yajna, dana, tapah and karma(prescribed duties of performing sacrifice, charity and austerity).

One of the best ways to do charity is by doing Annadanam which is considered the highest form of giving. The Sanskrit word Annadanam means the act of offering or sharing (danam) of food (annam). This has always been a component of Indian spiritual tradition and culture. 

Feed with Akshaya Patra this Akshaya Tritiya

As Akshaya Tritiya is considered one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar to do an act of charity, a contribution for school meals of children from challenging socio-economic backgrounds can significantly transform their lives. The provision of freshly cooked, hot, healthy and locally palatable school meals by Akshaya Patra is a potential intervention in ensuring the health and education of children. 

How donating to Akshaya Patra makes an impact

• It opens the gates of school for children
• It boosts their health with adequate nutrition
• It supports regular schooling and improves academic performance
• It ensures the completion of education by boosting retention
• It encourages them to pursue their dreams

This Akshaya Tritiya, you can feed the children by contributing to Akshaya Patra's PM POSHAN Programme. Donations to Akshaya Patra are tax exempted under Section 80G of the Indian Income Tax Act. Upon successful transaction of your donation, you will instantly receive the donation receipt and tax exemption certificate for your donated amount in your inbox.

Contribute to the ‘Inexhaustible Vessel of Food’ this Akshaya Tritiya

 Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akti or Akha Teej, is a sacred day celebrated by Hindus and Jains across India. In Sanskrit, the word ‘Akshaya’ means never-ending while ‘Tritiya’ stands for the third lunar day of the Vaisakha month (April-May).

In Hinduism, this day marks many significant events.

• •         On this day, Sudama visited his childhood friend, Lord Krishna, after many years. Despite suffering from extreme poverty, Sudama offered the puffed rice packed by his wife to Lord Krishna with great affection, who then blessed him with endless happiness and prosperity.
• •         This is the day when Draupadi from the Mahabharata epic received the ‘Akshaya Patra’, the inexhaustible vessel of food.
• •         It also marks the birth of Devi Annapoorna, the Hindu goddess of food.

Thus, Akshaya Tritiya is considered to be a highly auspicious day for new beginnings. It is believed that any new venture started on this day will be blessed with good luck, success and prosperity. Hence, people buy gold, start new businesses, make investments and perform religious rituals on this day.

Many also choose to donate to charities on Akshaya Tritiya. It is not just a way of giving back to society but also a way of seeking the blessings of the divine. By helping those in need, people express gratitude for the health and wealth they enjoy. Donating also brings a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment, knowing that their contribution is making a positive impact on the lives of others. It is also widely believed that any act of charity done on this day will multiply manifold and bring everlasting peace and prosperity to the donor’s family.

For the recipients, donations can be as life-changing as the inexhaustible vessel of food. They provide essential resources such as meals, shelter, education or medical care to those in need. They can help them overcome financial challenges and offer a pathway to a better life.

Transform lives on Akshaya Tritiya

Much like the Akshaya Patra in the epic of Mahabharata, The Akshaya Patra Foundation strives to be an unlimited source of food for children from low-income backgrounds in India. But it would not be possible without the support from governments and donors worldwide.

Thus, Akshaya Patra works in partnership with the Government of India, individuals and other organisations to implement the government’s PM Poshan Abhiyaan [earlier called the Mid-Day Meal Programme (MDM)] across government and government-aided schools in the country.

Akshaya Patra began its operations in 2000 with just one kitchen in Bangalore that fed 1,500 children every day. Today, it has grown to serve food to over 2 million children across 15 states and 2 union territories in India every day under the PM Poshan Abhiyaan or the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Programme. By providing nutritious mid-day meals to school children, the NGO aims to eliminate classroom hunger and also incentivise them to attend classes regularly.

Contributing to Akshaya Patra on Akshaya Tritiya is a great way to impact the lives of children who need our support while living up to the spirit of the occasion. These donations help fund the operations of the NGO and expand its reach to more schools and children. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a difference and help them persevere towards their goals every day.

This Akshaya Tritiya, express gratitude for the blessings of health and prosperity in your life. Donate online to feed children from challenging socioeconomic backgrounds and contribute to a sustainable future for India.

Your support on this auspicious day will support children’s nourishment and education for one full academic year.