New Delhi, March 17 – President Droupadi Murmu launched celebrations on Tuesday to commemorate the Akshaya Patra Foundation's provision of 5 billion meals, stating that providing 5 billion meals in the pursuit of educational goals is a remarkable achievement.
The theme of the event, “From a Well-Nourished and Well-Educated India to a Developed India,” emphasized the importance of a nourished and educated society in realizing India's national resolve to build "Viksit Bharat" by 2047, according to an official statement.
The President stated that ensuring a safe and bright future for our children is not solely the responsibility of the government, but a shared responsibility for all. When teachers, parents, social organizations, the corporate sector, and every segment of society work together, we lay a strong foundation for the coming generation.
"We must ensure that every child receives quality education, nutritious food, good health, and a clean and safe environment. These fundamentals enable the holistic development of children," she said.
The President stated that education is the instrument that determines the opportunities available in an individual's life and paves the way for their success.
It serves as an effective medium for transformation and empowerment. The process of empowerment and capacity-building begins from the very moment children start attending school, she said, adding that school equips children with the skills and experiences necessary to effectively navigate the challenges of daily life and to become responsible, conscientious citizens.
She commended the Akshaya Patra Foundation for continuously addressing the issue of malnutrition among children and encouraging them to pursue education by providing midday meals to schools for the past 25 years.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who also attended the event, posted on social media: "Honored to attend the 25th anniversary of the @AkshayaPatra Foundation and celebrate the milestone of 5 billion meals, in the august presence of Hon'ble @rashtrapatibhvn Droupadi Murmu ji at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre."
The Minister stated that the President highlighted that securing a bright future for our children is a shared national responsibility, with nutrition forming the bedrock of India's human capital.
"Rooted in the sacred Mahaprasad tradition of Jagannath, the Akshaya Patra initiative reflects India's civilisational ethos of seva – transforming faith into structured, large-scale public service. Guided by the vision of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and led by @madhupanditdasa and @CP_Dasa, it has evolved into a globally benchmarked model," he said.
"Under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodiji, the convergence of National Education Policy 2020 and PM POSHAN Scheme is addressing classroom hunger while strengthening access, retention, and holistic development in education," Pradhan added.