President Murmu Hails Akshaya Patra for 5 Billion Meals, Urges Focus on Child Nutrition

President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday commended the Akshaya Patra Foundation for achieving the milestone of serving five billion meals to support school education across India, emphasizing the critical link between nutrition and quality education for children. The remarks were made at a commemorative event held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre to mark the foundation’s landmark achievement.

Describing the accomplishment as “remarkable,” President Murmu highlighted that the initiative demonstrates how proper nutrition and education together contribute to building a strong and developed nation. She noted that the event’s theme—transitioning from a well-nourished and educated India to a developed India—aligns with the country’s vision of achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The President stressed that ensuring a secure and bright future for children is a shared responsibility. “When teachers, parents, social organisations, the corporate sector and all sections of society work together, we lay a strong foundation for the coming generation,” she said. She underscored the importance of providing children with quality education, proper nutrition, healthcare, and a safe environment to foster holistic development.

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Highlighting the transformative power of education, President Murmu said schools equip children with the skills and values required to face life’s challenges and become responsible citizens. She lauded the Akshaya Patra Foundation for its 25-year-long contribution in addressing malnutrition and promoting school attendance through its mid-day meal programmes.

The President also referenced government initiatives such as the PM POSHAN Scheme, noting that school meal programmes have significantly improved enrolment, attendance, and retention. Studies have shown that better nutrition has enhanced students’ learning outcomes and academic performance. She added that the foundation’s efforts complement the objectives of the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all children by 2030.

Calling children the “architects of the nation’s future,” President Murmu emphasized that investing in their health and education today strengthens India’s human capital. “A healthy, educated and energetic generation will play a pivotal role in achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047,” she said, underscoring the long-term impact of initiatives like the Akshaya Patra Foundation’s mid-day meal programme.

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