Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Inaugurates Morning Nutrition Programme for School Children
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized the critical role of nutrition in nation-building during the inauguration of a Morning Nutrition Programme organized by the NGO Akshaya Patra Foundation on Saturday. She highlighted that this initiative is designed to provide children with essential energy and nourishment at the start of their day, fostering better participation in academic and extracurricular activities.
Nutrition as a Foundation for Future Development
Speaking at the event, Gupta stated, "The smiling faces of schoolchildren testify to the fact that nutrition is not merely about food, but the very foundation of building the future." She underscored that the Delhi government is committed to supporting this noble endeavor, pledging full cooperation with the Akshaya Patra Foundation to ensure its success.
The chief minister drew parallels with the existing mid-day meal scheme, which has successfully connected millions of children to schools and significantly contributed to their physical and mental growth. "Taking this forward, the Morning Nutrition Programme will provide children with energy and nourishment at the start of the day, enabling them to participate actively in studies, sports, and other activities," she added.
Expanding Reach and Infrastructure
According to officials, the Akshaya Patra Foundation, in collaboration with nearly 200 Delhi government schools, is currently serving meals to approximately 90,000 children. Gupta detailed that these meals are prepared and delivered through four state-of-the-art kitchens operating in the national capital, ensuring timely and efficient distribution to students.
In her address, Gupta also outlined broader efforts to combat hunger in Delhi. She mentioned the Atal Canteens initiative, where the government provides meals at Rs 5 to workers, underprivileged individuals, patient attendants, and other vulnerable sections. "No one should sleep hungry. The Delhi government aims to provide meals to 1 lakh people daily through these canteens," she asserted.
A target has been set to establish 100 Atal Canteens across the city, with 71 already operational, further demonstrating the government's dedication to addressing nutritional needs across various demographics.
Key Highlights of the Programme
- The Morning Nutrition Programme focuses on providing energy and nourishment to school children at the beginning of the day.
- It builds upon the success of the mid-day meal scheme, which has enhanced physical and mental development among students.
- The Akshaya Patra Foundation serves meals to around 90,000 children in nearly 200 Delhi government schools.
- Meals are prepared in four advanced kitchens to ensure timely delivery.
- The Delhi government supports this initiative and is expanding affordable meal access through Atal Canteens.
This initiative marks a significant step in promoting child welfare and nutrition, aligning with broader goals of educational and societal development in the capital.
