Mannar, Sri Lanka – In a positive initiative aimed at nourishing the minds and bodies of Mannar’s government school-going children, the Annapoorna Morning Nutrition Programme was launched on September 12, 2023. The programme, graced by the presence of Sri Madhusudan Sai, founder of the Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust, seeks to address the pressing nutritional needs of underprivileged students in the area.
Sri Madhusudan Sai, a humanitarian and social leader from India, spearheads a unique global service mission across 33 countries. Since 2011, he has impacted countless lives in India and abroad by providing completely free nutrition, education and healthcare, instilling hope, empowerment, and a brighter future for those most in need. The Annapoorna Morning Nutrition Programme was initiated by Sri Madhusudan Sai in 2012 in South India, and he has been the visionary behind the strategy and expansion of this unique nutrition initiative.
At its core, the Annapoorna programme focuses on providing essential morning nutrition to students, a cornerstone of their well-being. This initiative has already achieved remarkable success worldwide, having served an astounding 516 million meals to children in India, spanning 23 states and 5 Union Territories, and extending its reach to countries as diverse as Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Nigeria. Each morning, three million school-going children receive vital nutrition to combat the issue of hidden hunger.
The Mannar town, nestled in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, holds immense cultural and historical significance. Its resilient residents, predominantly engaged in farming, particularly in paddy and vegetables, diligently work to sustain their families and communities.
The launch of the Annapoorna Morning Nutrition Programme was a momentous occasion, attended by distinguished figures. Notably, Srilasree Masilamani Desika Gnanasambandha Swami, the revered head pontiff, added a spiritual dimension to the event. Honourable Vidura Wickremanayake, current Minister of Buddhashasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs, attended as a government representative, expressing gratitude for the initiative’s support to needy students.
In this noble endeavour, Mr. Gowri Shankar, serving as the Director of the G&G Group of companies in Singapore and Hatton Plantations PLC in Sri Lanka, played a pivotal role.
This event’s international significance was highlighted by the presence of Shri Raakesh Natraj Jayabhaskaran, the Consul General of India in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. His attendance underscored the collaborative efforts between India and Sri Lanka in fostering programmes that uplift local communities.
Mr. Anand K. Kadali, Secretary and Trustee of Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust, shared his vision during the event, stating, “We are currently assessing the feasibility of expanding our programme to neighbouring schools in this region. Collaboration with corporate partners, local communities, and government entities is essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability of this initiative.” His insightful perspective sheds light on the programme’s goals and objectives, ultimately benefiting more schoolchildren and promoting community development.
The event brought together spiritual leaders, government officials, and diplomats, all united in their commitment to improving the lives and well-being of Mannar’s local schoolchildren. The Annapoorna Morning Nutrition Programme promises to make a positive impact on the community, ushering in a brighter tomorrow for these deserving students by providing essential nutrition infused with motherly care.