India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, Ruchira Kamboj, highlighted India’s proactive measures and notable achievements in ensuring food security and nutrition during a session at the United Nations titled ‘Achievements in Food Security: India’s Strides Towards Sustainable Development Goals’.
At the heart of the discussion was the commendable work of the Akshaya Patra Foundation, which has been a beacon of hope in the global fight against hunger. Kamboj emphasized the significance of Akshaya Patra’s milestone achievement of serving 4 billion meals.
She shared a special message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, praising the foundation’s steadfast commitment to eradicating hunger and nourishing humanity. The event, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, highlighted India’s dedication to global well-being.
Kamboj also shed light on India’s progress in addressing poverty, noting that over 415 million people have stepped out of poverty, well ahead of the 2030 target.
“India is taking bold steps, especially in eradicating poverty. Our actions today are shaping the future. It’s a journey of hope, a journey of change, and we have already made history. Over 415 million people in India have stepped out of poverty, among the 25 countries that have halved their multidimensional poverty within 15 years, much ahead of 2030,” she stated.
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,” Kamboj 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 significant step 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,” Kamboj emphasized.
Additionally, Kamboj commended Akshaya Patra for its innovative approach to tackling hunger and achieving educational goals. The foundation, recognized by institutions like Harvard Business School, 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, emphasizing the power of enthusiasm steered by reflection and reason in overcoming challenges. This session at the United Nations served as a testament to India’s unwavering dedication to sustainable development and ending hunger on a global scale.
