The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in India has partnered with The Akshaya Patra Foundation to enhance the effectiveness of the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM-POSHAN) scheme, which was earlier known as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. The agreement in this regard was signed on January 03, 2022 between WFP India country director Bishow Parajuli and Chanchalapthi Dasa, Vice Chairman of The Akshaya Patra Foundation in New Delhi.
PM Poshan Scheme was launched on September 29, 2021 as a new meal scheme for government and government-aided schools for 5 years (from 2021-22 to 2025-26) with the financial outlay of Rs 1.31 trillion.
The existing ‘Mid Day Meal’ scheme has been included in this programme. The WFP and Akshaya Patra will form a steering committee with representatives from both organisations to discuss various aspects of the tie-up. Finances to implement the programmes will be provided by both organisations. Bengaluru-based The Akshaya Patra Foundation is a non-profit organisation that operates a school lunch programme.
