New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu initiated the festivities marking the incredible milestone of 5 billion meals provided by the Akshaya Patra Foundation. She emphasized that delivering such a vast number of meals in support of educational goals represents an extraordinary accomplishment for the organization.

The event's theme, ‘From a Well-Nourished and Well-Educated India to a Developed India’, highlighted the vital role that a nourished and educated populace plays in achieving our national ambition of creating a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, according to an official announcement.

The President remarked that ensuring a secure and prosperous future for the youth is not solely a governmental duty, but a collective obligation. When educators, guardians, community organizations, the corporate world, and all societal segments collaborate, we establish a robust foundation for future generations.

“We must guarantee that every child has access to quality education, nutritious meals, excellent health, and a clean, safe environment. These essentials facilitate the comprehensive development of children,” she stated.

She further asserted that education serves as the key that unlocks opportunities in an individual's life, paving the path to their future success.

It acts as a powerful catalyst for change and empowerment. The journey of empowerment and skill development begins the moment children step into school, equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate life's challenges and become responsible citizens.

She praised the Akshaya Patra Foundation for its unwavering commitment to combatting child malnutrition and inspiring educational pursuits through the provision of mid-day meals in schools for over 25 years.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who was also present at the event, expressed on social media, “I am honored to join the 25th anniversary celebration of the @AkshayaPatra Foundation and mark the achievement of 5 billion meals, in the esteemed presence of Hon’ble @rashtrapatibhvn Droupadi Murmu ji at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre.”

The Minister added that the President emphasized securing a bright future for our children as a collective national duty, with nutrition forming the foundation of India’s human capital.

“Rooted in the revered Mahaprasad tradition of Jagannath, the Akshaya Patra initiative embodies India’s civilizational ethos of service — translating faith into structured, large-scale public welfare. Guided by the vision of A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada and led by @madhupanditdasa and @CP_Dasa, it has emerged as a globally recognized model,” he stated.

“Under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodiji, the integration of the National Education Policy 2020 and the PM POSHAN Scheme is addressing classroom hunger while enhancing access, retention, and comprehensive development in education,” Pradhan added.