Desi Talk

www.desitalk.com – that’s all you need to know 14 COVER STORY March 27, 2026 T he Akshaya Patra Foundation, one of India’s largest non-profit orga- nizations dedicated to combating classroom hunger and supporting education, made history March 17, 2026, when it reached the milestone of serving 5 billion meals at an event hosted at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in India. The President of India Droupadi Murmu, along with distinguished dig- nitaries, partners, and supporters from across the globe, attended the event. Since its inception, the Foundation has been implementing the Govern- ment of India’s Mid-Day Meal Program, delivering nutritious meals to millions of children across the country every school day. President Murmu commended Akshaya Patra’s transformative impact, highlighting how the organization has not only addressed child hunger but also significantly contributed to improv- ing school attendance, retention, and learning outcomes, a press release said. The President emphasized the impor- tance of collaborative efforts between government, civil society, and private stakeholders in building a nourished and educated nation.Education Speaking at the event, Madhu Pandit Dasa Founder/Chairperson of Akshaya Patra, thanked all partners and sup- porters who contributed to this journey. “Reaching 5 billion meals is not just a number—it represents 5 billion oppor- tunities for children to learn, grow, and dream. This milestone inspires us to ex- pand our reach and deepen our impact, Dasa said. The event also highlighted the vital role of global supporters in advancing Akshaya Patra’s mission. Dr. Rachana Kulkarni, Vice Chair of Akshaya Patra USA, was present at the event. She is credited with playing a pivotal role in expanding Akshaya Patra’s footprint in the United States, strengthening aware- ness, partnerships, and philanthropic support for the Foundation’s mission across the U.S. “Her presence at the event under- scored the growing global momen- tum behind Akshaya Patra’s efforts to eliminate classroom hunger,” the press release said. Among its strongest supporters in the US is also Padma Shri recipient and Senior Advisor Dr. Sudhir Parikh, chair- man of ParikhWorldwide Media which publishes Desi Talk and News India Times. “Every year, here in the US, we hold a fundraising gala that raises funds reaching seven figures,” Dr. Parikh told Desi Talk. “Akshaya Patra provides at least 2 million school meals every year, and its the reason i became involved with this philanthropic effort. I believe that with each disadvantaged child who has a free meal in school, more chil- dren are attracted to attend school, and ultimately leading to securing a better future for themselves and uplifting their families.”US Election Coverage Supporters of Akshaya Patra from around the world, including the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Singa- pore, Australia, and the United States, were alsp present. The event featured reflections on Akshaya Patra’s journey, showcasing its innovative, technology-driven kitchen model, commitment to quality and hygiene, and its scalable approach to addressing hunger at a national level. At- tendees also witnessed stories of benefi- ciaries whose lives have been positively impacted through access to nutritious meals. Akshaya Patra’s vision statement says, “No child in India shall be deprived of education because of hunger” and it continues to work towards scaling its op- erations to serve millions more children, the nonprofit said. Akshaya Patra Celebrates 5 Billion Meals Milestone At Rashtrapati Bhavan With President Of India By a StaffWriter President of India Droupadi Murmu, right, with Madhu Pandit Dasa Founder/Chairperson of Akshaya Patra, and others at the ceremony on 5 billion meals served. President Murmu serving the ceremonial 5 billionth meal at Rashtrapati Bhavan commemorating the milestone of AkshayaPatra. Dr. Rachana Kulkarni, center, with Dr. Anand Kulkarni, left, and Dr. Varun Jeph at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Akshay Patra Board of Trustees with the President of India Droupadi Murmu. PHOTOS COURTESY AKSHAYA PATRA