IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT OUR CHILDREN HAVE ACCESS TO NUTRITIOUS FOOD AND QUALITY EDUCATION: PRESIDENT DROUPADI MURMU
The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, attended a special event at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre to commemorate the milestone of five billion meals served by the Akshaya Patra Foundation.
Addressing the gathering, the President described the achievement as a remarkable contribution towards strengthening educational outcomes in the country. She highlighted that the event’s theme, “From a Well-Nourished and Well-Educated India to a Developed India,” reflects the critical role of nutrition and education in achieving the vision of a developed India, or ‘Viksit Bharat’, by 2047.
Emphasizing collective responsibility, President Murmu stated that ensuring a safe and promising future for children is not solely the duty of the government but requires the combined efforts of parents, teachers, social organizations, the corporate sector, and society at large. She stressed the importance of guaranteeing every child access to quality education, nutritious food, healthcare, and a safe environment to enable holistic development.
Highlighting the transformative power of education, the President noted that it shapes opportunities and empowers individuals from an early stage. She said schools play a crucial role in equipping children with essential skills and values, preparing them to face life’s challenges and become responsible citizens. She also commended the Akshaya Patra Foundation for its sustained efforts over the past 25 years in addressing child malnutrition and promoting school attendance through its mid-day meal initiatives.
The President further pointed out that government programs such as PM POSHAN have significantly contributed to improving student enrolment, attendance, and retention. Studies have also shown notable improvements in children’s learning abilities and academic performance due to these initiatives.
She appreciated the Foundation’s role in supporting the goals of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all children by 2030.
Concluding her address, President Murmu remarked that children are not just beneficiaries of welfare programs but are the architects of the nation’s future. She emphasized that investing in their nutrition and education today will build a strong, skilled workforce capable of driving India towards the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, March 17, 2026 5:14 pm by Madhusudhan Reddy | Published by: Madhusudhan Reddy on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 5:14 pm | News Categories: Mumbai