India’s efforts towards sustainable development continue with the ultimate objective of solving the global hunger crisis
India has shown significant progress in reducing poverty, with over 415 million people having emerged from poverty, surpassing the 2030 target, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ruchira Kamboj said at an event earlier this week.
 
Speaking at a session at the United Nations titled 'Achievements in Food Security: India’s Strides Towards Sustainable Development Goals' on Tuesday (April 2, 2024), India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj spotlighted the nation's efforts in combating hunger and achieving sustainable development.
 
"We're taking bold steps, especially in eradicating poverty. Our actions today are painting the canvas of tomorrow. It's a journey of hope, a journey of change. We've already made history. Over 415 million people in India have stepped out of poverty," she said.
 
Central to her address was the notable contribution of the Akshaya Patra Foundation, which recently reached the remarkable milestone of serving 4 billion meals. 
 
Recognized by Harvard Business School for its innovative approach to solving hunger and achieving education goals, Akshaya Patra aims to feed 3 million children by 2025, Kamboj stated. "Their efforts shine as a model of hope and a template for impactful action. This goes beyond feeding the hungry. It's about educating the young and empowering women," she remarked.
 
Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, Infosys Chairman Emeritus Narayana Murthy, and Akshaya Patra Foundation Chairman Madhu Pandit Dasa were present at the event that strategized India's efforts towards global welfare and highlighted the foundation's role in the fight against hunger.
 
Further, Kamboj underscored the Indian ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' – meaning 'One earth, one family, one future' – which encapsulates India's holistic approach to sustainable development.
 
In her speech, Kamboj also mentioned the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Yojana, a key initiative feeding over 100 million children in 1 million schools and integrating millets into their diet, thus advancing towards the Zero Hunger goal (SDG 2).
 
The Akshaya Patra Foundation has expanded its mission over the last two decades, not only in feeding programmes but also through initiatives that support children’s overall development and education. The foundation's efforts, recognized globally, aim to ensure that children do not have to choose between education and nutrition.
 
Their feeding programmes cover a wide range, from the PM POSHAN scheme serving school children to initiatives providing meals to pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children. Akshaya Patra also extends its reach through digital education, scholarship programs, and infrastructural improvements in schools. Kamboj also referred to India's focus on showcasing millets, a traditional crop, at the G20 summit.
 
To sum up, India’s efforts towards sustainable development continue to persist with the ultimate objective of solving the global hunger crisis.