Wednesday 27 / November / 2024
New York: India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, Ruchira Kamboj, underscored the proactive measures and remarkable successes taken by the country in ensuring food security and nutrition.
Kamboj made these remarks on Tuesday at the United Nations session titled 'Achievements in Food Security: India's Strides Towards Sustainable Development Goals'. At the heart of the discussion was the exemplary work of the Akshaya Patra Foundation, a beacon of hope in the global fight against hunger.
Kamboj highlighted the significance of Akshaya Patra's milestone achievement of serving 4 billion meals. She conveyed a special message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, lauding the foundation's unwavering commitment to eradicating hunger and nourishing humanity. The event, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, underscored India's dedication to global well-being.
Kamboj emphasised India's progress in tackling poverty, with over 415 million people stepping out of poverty, significantly ahead of the 2030 target.
"India is 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 and we've already made history. Over 415 million people in India have stepped out of poverty among the 25 countries that halved their multidimensional poverty within 15 years, much ahead of 2030," she said.
She reiterated India's mantra of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' - One earth, one family, one future, illustrating the country's holistic approach to sustainable development.
"But we are not stopping here. Our mantra, 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'-One earth, one family, one future guides us. At the G20 summit last year, we showcased millets, our heritage crop to the world," she added.
The Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Yojana initiative, highlighted by Kamboj, exemplifies India's commitment to achieving Zero Hunger (SDG 2). By nurturing over 100 million children across 1 million schools and incorporating millets into their diet, the initiative is a giant leap towards ensuring food security and nutrition for all.
"The Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Yojana initiative is a giant leap towards zero hunger. It's nurturing over 100 million children across 1 million schools, incorporating millets, marking a stride forward in the global fight against hunger," said Kamboj.
Furthermore, Kamboj commended Akshaya Patra for its innovative approach to solving hunger and achieving educational goals. Recognized by institutions like Harvard Business School, the foundation aims to feed 3 million children by 2025, driving both SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
India's efforts in showcasing millets, a heritage crop, at the G20 summit and promoting initiatives like Akshaya Patra reflect its commitment to global well-being. Kamboj concluded by quoting the Prime Minister, emphasising the power of enthusiasm steered by reflection and reason in overcoming challenges.
