Gurugram, 25 January 2024: In what can only be described as a culinary alliance of epic proportions, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd. (NMIPL) and The Akshaya Patra Foundation (TAPF) have been stirring the pot of nutrition and education in the Government schools of New Delhi. Since the start of their partnership in January 2023, these two organizations have been busy ladling out an impressive 50 lakh meals, creating a delightful blend of sustenance and learning for the young minds of the city.
This initiative has seen a mouth-watering impact throughout the year, touching the lives of over 49,000 students from low-income communities and reaching out to over 300 schools in the region. Each meal served under this program has been a recipe for health and well-being, laying a strong foundation for a healthy and educated childhood. The endeavor has proven that well-nourished children are more likely to thrive academically, paving the way for increased opportunities in their future endeavors.
Rakesh Srivastava, Managing Director at Nissan Motor India, shared his thoughts on the initiative, stating, “Our partnership with Akshaya Patra is our recipe for societal change, aligning with the Prime Minister’s POSHAN initiative. We’re not just dishing out meals; we’re serving up dreams of a better tomorrow, seasoning our young generation with hope and empowerment.”
The School Meal Program, sponsored by Nissan Motor India, has been effectively implemented through four Akshaya Patra kitchens in New Delhi. This program aligns with the objectives of the Mid-Day Meal initiative by the government, addressing vital issues such as food security, nutrition enhancement, increased school attendance, reduced dropout rates, and elimination of discrimination among children.
Expressing gratitude to Nissan for its invaluable support, Bharatarshabha Dasa, National President Operations and Projects of Akshaya Patra Foundation, remarked, “Our joint effort in 2023 has been a successful banquet of benefits for the school students of New Delhi. This program not only aligns with the Prime Minister’s POSHAN initiative but also addresses crucial issues like food security, enhanced nutrition, increased school attendance, reduced dropout rates, and the elimination of discrimination among children. We remain committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of these students.”
The program’s significant impact on reducing micronutrient deficiencies and strengthening children’s immunity against infections has been complemented by regular consumption of Mid-Day Meals. This has not only improved the overall well-being of the children by decreasing the prevalence of anemia and promoting healthy weight and height development but has also played a crucial role in their educational journey.
Nissan Motor India and Akshaya Patra Foundation, committed to building a brighter and healthier future for the nation, have demonstrated through this collaborative effort that sustained nourishment and empowerment are key ingredients in ensuring a future that is not only brighter but also healthier for the children.
