Introduction
Children who suffer from poor nutrition in early childhood can develop nutritional deficiencies in iron and iodine, which can cause cognitive, physical and social/emotional developmental delays.
Malnutrition can result in long-term neural issues in the brain, impacting a child’s emotional responses, reactions to stress, learning disabilities and other medical complications.
Relationship between Nutrition and Education
• Nutrition is critical for the overall development of children, including physical and mental.
• For a healthy mind, children need healthy food.
• A healthy immune system improves their attendance in school which is vital for their educational growth.
• A balanced diet results in better sleep which is important for children’s development.
The Akshaya Patra Foundation gives school children the meals they deserve, with special focus on nutrition. The organisation aims at fighting malnutrition and supporting the right to education of children from challenging socio-economic backgrounds.
Based on our recent visit to Akshaya Patra located in JP Nagar Bengaluru, we came to know that they are currently serving more than 90,000 children across the city. The experience of visiting Akshaya Patra’s kitchen was mesmerising.
Conclusion
Based on these facts articulated above, we can conclude that mid-day meals contribute to overall development of children, which would have otherwise been ignored due to the vulnerabilities of the EWS (Economically Weaker Sections). Due to the organised and collaborative efforts of Akshaya Patra, the mid-day meals are able to cater to such a large group of needy children.
Created and complied by:
Dushyanth Peddi
Richie Agarwal
Swati Pandey
