NGO Akshaya Patra has been conferred with Gandhi Peace Prize for 2016 for its contribution towards socio-economic development by providing mid-day meals to millions of children across the country.
A cash prize and citation were presented to Akshaya Patra Foundation Chairman Madhu Pandit Dasa, jointly by the President Ram Nath Kovind and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, here at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.
In his address, President Ramnath Kovind lauded Akshaya Patra’s efforts in feeding children with nutritious mid-day meals on a large scale.
Mr Kovind said, “By leveraging technology to feed children a quality and hygienic meal, Akshaya Patra has set world-class standards. Through its efforts the Foundation is reaching out to nearly 18 Lakh children in 12 States across the country.”
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Akshaya Patra has given the Government’s initiative to provide mid-day meals to children a professional touch through a successful Public-Private Partnership with the Government. I recently had the opportunity to serve Akshaya Patra’s three billionth meal in Vrindavan.”
On winning the award, Mr Dasa said, “It is a matter of exceptional pride and honour for Akshaya Patra to be selected for the Gandhi Peace Prize. With the vision no child should be deprived of education because of hunger, we have been serving fresh, nutritious meals to children in Government schools since 2000.” (UNI)