‘An interesting trend emerged when A.C Nielson, a global research firm, conducted studies in some of Akshaya Patra's centers: our program was having a greater impact on girl children than boys. In Baran for instance, one of India's most drought prone areas, where levels of food insecurity are high, it was found that in the year we implemented the mid-day meal program, enrolment for boys increased by 37.5%, while that for girls increased by a remarkable 44.9% for class 1 students.

The one meal that Akshaya Patra provides has resulted in a larger number of girls enrolling, their performance improving and their attendance levels increasing significantly. Our work is helping to bridge a gender gap that exists in many schools.

Something as simple as the free lunch provided by Akshaya Patra means that many girls can now come to school without having to work for that meal. When they do attend school, they can concentrate better because they are not suffering under the effects of classroom hunger. They can participate in learning activities and contribute to classroom discussions.

With nearly two thirds of the 121 million out of school children being girls, it is apparent that to make any progressive improvements in the state of the world's children, we must pay great attention to the needs of the girl child. A girl empowered by education and confident enough to take mature decisions is more likely to make the right choices when she has grown up. She will be able to stand up for herself and her children, to educate and raise them as healthy members of society.'

More Details: http://www.akshayapatra.org

About the Author:
venkat.J

The Akshaya Patra Foundation

Bangalore - 10

www.akshayapatra.org