The Jamsetji Tata Trust has contributed a grant of Rs 55 crore to The Akshaya Patra Foundation, which will be utilised over the next five years in improvising and optimising various resources within the not-for-profit organisation. This initiative is projected to provide constant backing in the repair and upgradation of the existing kitchens. It is also aimed at acquiring logistic equipment like transportation, reducing cooking to consumption time, mounting ‘green initiatives’, enhancing food safety measures and achieving process efficiencies.

In a public-private partnership along with funding and grants from the state and central Government of India, Akshaya Patra feeds over 1.3 million children in 9 states and 20 locations. Mid-day meals are distributed in 10,050 government schools across these locations every school day.

“The mission of Akshaya Patra is to reach 5 million children by 2020. This initiative will empower us to take few steps towards our goal. We are grateful to the Jamsetji Tata Trust for having seen value in associating with our programme,” said Sri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

The Jamsetji Tata Trust is one of the oldest philanthropic institutions in India, and has played a pioneering role in changing traditional ideas of charity.