Contribution to society: Role and importance of NGOs in current times and their unique challenges

Akshaya Patra seamlessly integrates corporate efficiency with humanitarian service while operating with precision, scale and passion. The semi-automated kitchens at APF can prepare up to 1,00,000 meals daily while ensuring hygiene and consistency

Hyderabad: In today’s world, NGOs play a crucial role in bridging the gap between government initiatives and grassroots needs. India, with its immense diversity and scale, presents unique challenges in implementing social welfare programmes.

The public-private partnership (PPP) model allows NGOs to contribute their expertise in resource mobilisation and efficient execution. By collaborating with the government, NGOs bring innovation, agility and a deeper understanding of local communities, making social initiatives more impactful.

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Akshaya Patra Foundation’s inception:

The Akshaya Patra Foundation (APF) traces its roots to a story of compassion. Inspired by the vision of Srila Prabhupada, founder and acharya of the worldwide Hare Krishna Movement, a world where nobody goes hungry, the initiative was started in 2000 by feeding 1,500 children in Bengaluru. What began as a humble effort soon gained momentum, with more like-minded people joining us. Over time, we have scaled up; now we serve 2.25 million children in 16 states and 2 UTs, aiming to reach 3 million children by 2025.

Use of advanced technology in the kitchens:

Akshaya Patra seamlessly integrates corporate efficiency with humanitarian service while operating with precision, scale and passion. Akshaya Patra’s semi-automated kitchens can prepare up to 1,00,000 meals daily while ensuring hygiene and consistency.

Automated recipe adherence maintains taste and nutrition, while ERP systems optimise inventory, logistics and costing. GPS tracking and route optimisation further enhance timely delivery. Our founder-chairman, Madhu Pandit Dasa envisioned these advancements to maximise impact — technology in service of humanity. The integration of innovation ensures that our meals reach children safely, on time and in the best possible quality.

4 billion meal milestone celebrations at UN Headquarters in New York:

On April 2, 2024, our journey reached a historic landmark — 4 billion meals served under PM Poshan. This achievement was celebrated at the UN headquarters in New York, reflecting India’s commitment to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). With dignitaries like Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, Infosys’ NR Narayana Murthy and Madhu Pandit Dasa, the event highlighted how India is tackling food security. Our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s message of encouragement, read out during the event, reaffirmed the importance of our collective responsibility in shaping a hunger-free world.

True service is about selflessness and joy of giving:

True service is about selflessness. Volunteering is not just about contributing time; it is about cultivating compassion and responsibility. Whether one is offering expertise in operations or simply lending a hand in community service, each act of kindness ripples outwards, creating a larger impact. The joy of giving, without expectation, nurtures both the giver and the receiver. When service is done with sincerity, it elevates the individual and strengthens the community and the nation. Our donors, well-wishers, and stakeholders strongly support Akshaya Patra’s journey. Their voluntary contributions make this mammoth service to children possible.

– Srimaan Satya Goura Chandra Dasa Prabhuji

(The author is MTech graduate from IIT, Madras, and president of Hare Krishna Movement, Banjara Hills, Road No 12, Hyderabad)