Akshaya Patra begins food relief to fire-affected residents of Shahadra

New Delhi April 25 (IANS) Akshaya Patra which runs the world s largest mid-day meal scheme across India has stepped in with food relief for the victims of a devastating fire in Mansarovar Park Shahadra.

"The Akshaya Patra started the feeding from April 25 2018 and distributed 1 000 meals for lunch and dinner. The food relief will continue for a few days till the affected citizens are able to cope with the dire circumstances. Items being distributed are poori sabji rice dal and khichdi " an Akshaya Patra statement said.

The new Akshaya Patra facility which is under construction in North Delhi s Jahangirpuri immediately initiated the relief operation by supplying equipment manpower material and distribution vehicles from The Akshaya Patra Kitchen in Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh.

Some 250 shanties were completely destroyed in the blaze on Monday.

"The city administration was thrown into jeopardy dealing with the unforeseen calamity. After contacting a few NGOs and support groups administration officials approached The Akshaya Patra Foundation requesting to provide essential food relief to the distraught citizens " the statement said.

"From humble beginnings serving just 1 500 schoolchildren across five schools the Foundation today runs the world s largest (not-for-profit run) mid-day meal programme serving wholesome food to over 1.6 million children from 13 839 schools across 12 states in India.

--IANS
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