Akshaya Patra Articles

 The whole world is striving to alleviate malnutrition. In the global efforts to achieve the SDGs by 2030, India is making progress as well. However, the issue still persists and the country continues to combat it by implementing initiatives and programmes. Malnutrition: Definition, Causes and Challenges “Malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients. The term malnutrition covers two broad groups of conditions. One is undernutrition, which includes stunting (low height for age), wasting (low weight for height), underweight (low weight for age) and micronutrient deficiencies or insufficiencies (a lack of important vitamins and minerals). The other is overweight, obesity and diet-related noncommunicable diseases (such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer).” - World Health Organisation For a balanced diet, dietary diversity is the key. People should follow a diet that includes carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and ...

 India is one of the largest countries in the world. It has a population of 1.4 billion and immense diversity in geography, religion, caste, socioeconomic status, etc., making implementing social welfare programmes challenging. This makes a strong case for adopting the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in the social sector. The government can implement these initiatives with the NGOs pitching in with their expertise in resource mobilisation to add to their efficiency. In fact, the government has even made provisions for the participation of private entities and NGOs in addressing socioeconomic issues and contributing to the larger goal of nation-building. An apt example is the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Scheme, now rechristened as the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan. As per the Revised Guidelines 2017 for engagement of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)/Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) in Mid-Day Meal Scheme, NGOs can be engaged to supply cooked meals to children in schools in urban areas or in...