Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday launched the ‘Morning Nutrition Programme’ in collaboration with the Akshaya Patra Foundation. Through this initiative, the government aims to directly benefit nearly 90,000 students across the national capital.
Addressing the gathering, Gupta emphasised that a nourished childhood forms the foundation of a ‘Viksit Bharat’. She stated that nutrition is not merely about providing food but about strengthening the nation’s future by investing in children’s health and development.
Programme Implementation Across Government Schools
As reported by The Indian Express, the programme will operate in nearly 200 Delhi government schools. Under this initiative, students will receive morning meals designed to improve their energy levels, concentration, and overall growth.
Furthermore, the Foundation will prepare and distribute meals through its four modern kitchens in Delhi, thereby ensuring quality, hygiene, and timely delivery.
Gupta highlighted that welfare measures introduced under Prime Minister Narendra Modi — including PM Poshan, the National Food Security Act, and Poshan Abhiyaan — have strengthened India’s nutrition framework. In addition, the Delhi government is expanding subsidised meal services through Atal Canteens, where meals are served at ₹5, with a target of feeding one lakh people daily.
Calling the initiative a strong example of government-community partnership, Gupta reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring that no child starts the day hungry.
Healthcare Infrastructure Upgraded Across Delhi
In addition to launching the nutrition programme, the Chief Minister inaugurated several key healthcare projects to enhance medical infrastructure in the city.
At Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital (GTB Hospital), she inaugurated a 10-bed Medical ICU ward, a modern GI HD Video Endoscopy Suite, and an Integrated AYUSH Stress Management Programme. These upgrades aim to strengthen critical care services and enable faster diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders.
Moreover, the newly introduced AYUSH stress management OPDs will promote holistic well-being through yoga and lifestyle counselling.
Foundation Stone Laid for New OPD Building at IHBAS
Gupta also laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art OPD building at the Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS). The new facility will streamline outpatient services and significantly reduce waiting times for thousands of patients seeking mental health support.
She stated that the government is working in mission mode to equip every hospital with world-class infrastructure and patient-centric services.
Government’s Vision for a Model Healthcare System
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh described the initiatives as a milestone for the city’s healthcare system. He expressed confidence that Delhi’s public health infrastructure will emerge as a national model.
Echoing this sentiment, the Chief Minister said that the newly inaugurated facilities will substantially benefit residents of East Delhi and the wider NCR region, reinforcing the government’s commitment to accessible and quality healthcare.