The reopening of schools is more than the return of lessons and classrooms — it’s the return of stability, safety and a sense of belonging for millions of children across India. For many underprivileged students, it also marks the return of something just as vital: a hot, nutritious mid-day meal they can count on.
For these children, the mid-day meal we serve is often their most nourishing meal of the day — a source of strength, comfort and encouragement. As children step back into classrooms, we continue our steadfast mission: to ensure that no child misses out on education.
At the heart of every thriving nation is a generation of healthy, educated children. In India, however, the journey to education is often challenged by one of life’s most fundamental needs — food. Ensure adequate nutrition so that children do not have empty stomach which otherwise might dull curiosity, weaken focus and hold back their boundless potential.
Yet, amidst this challenge lies hope. And we, at Akshaya Patra Foundation, are transforming this reality with a simple yet powerful belief: when we nourish the body, we empower the mind — and with it, the future.
Back to School Is Just the Beginning
Our ‘Back to School’ initiative goes beyond serving mid-day meals — it’s about restoring confidence, rebuilding communities and reigniting the hope that education brings. Each plate of food is a quiet act of empowerment, allowing children to focus not on hunger, but on their dreams and potential.
As schools once again echo with laughter and learning, we stand by every child — one meal at a time, one future at a time — ensuring that no student is held back by inadequate access to nutrition.
Fuelling Learning Through Nutrition
A child on an empty stomach struggles to focus, and it can can hinder memory, energy and overall cognitive development — all essential for learning. By providing hot, nutritious meals in schools, we tackle classroom hunger head-on, boosting attendance, reducing dropouts and enhancing academic performance.
A Ripple Effect of Hope
The impact of Akshaya Patra extends far beyond nutrition and education. By feeding children, the foundation empowers entire families and strengthens communities. When parents know their children — especially daughters — will receive a nutritious mid-day meal at school, they are more likely to prioritise education. The initiative also fuels local economies by creating jobs and supporting supply chains. Ultimately, society benefits from a healthier, better-educated generation equipped to shape a brighter future.
As the old saying goes, you cannot teach a child on an empty stomach. But when you fill a stomach, you open a new avenue of learning.
Your support matters this Back to School season! Let’s feed the children. Contribute to help us send 2.25 million children back to school!
