Delhi Chief Minister Launches Morning Nutrition Program for 90,000 Students
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the Akshaya Patra Foundation's morning nutrition program in New Delhi on Friday, emphasizing that "there can be no greater service than ensuring that a child does not come to school hungry." The initiative aims to provide ready-to-eat morning energy snacks to more than 90,000 students across Delhi government schools.
Strengthening Education Through Nutrition
Gupta highlighted that such programs are crucial for building a solid educational foundation by supporting children's health, energy levels, and cognitive abilities. "Initiatives like this strengthen the foundation of education by directly addressing the physical needs of students," she stated. The chief minister further noted that collaborative efforts between the government and organizations like Akshaya Patra are essential for creating a healthier and brighter future for the nation.
The morning nutrition program will supplement the existing mid-day meals served under the central government's PM Poshan scheme. Gupta explained that early-morning nutrition plays a pivotal role in helping children maintain attentiveness in classrooms, and the Delhi government remains committed to supporting initiatives that tackle hunger and enhance learning outcomes.
Bridging Nutritional Gaps
Akshaya Patra officials designed the program to address nutritional deficiencies early in the day, noting that children who arrive at school without a morning meal often experience difficulties with concentration and academic performance. The program currently serves approximately 8 lakh children in six states, with its expansion to Delhi representing a significant milestone.
The foundation began its operations in Delhi in 2019 with a kitchen in Gole Market and has since expanded to locations including Samaypur Badli, Jahangirpuri, and Mohan Cooperative. It now provides mid-day meals to over 90,000 children in government and government-aided schools throughout the city.
Program Details and Future Plans
Initially, the foundation will distribute millet-based ready-to-eat snacks such as chikki, peanuts, and protein bars six days a week. "In the next six months, we plan to introduce hot cooked breakfasts like idli, poori, and other regional items," announced Chanchalapathi Dasa, co-founder and vice-chairman of Akshaya Patra.
The launch event was attended by students from various schools, including Atal Adarsh Bengali Balika Vidyalaya in Gole Market and C L Bhalla DAV Senior Secondary School. This initiative underscores a concerted effort to ensure that no child in Delhi's government schools starts their day on an empty stomach, thereby fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth.
