In a bold initiative to address malnutrition among children in Mumbai’s urban slums, Akshaya Chaitanya has launched the "Bowl of Growth Program." 

Aimed at nourishing 1,000 children from balwadis (pre-schools) and 3,000 from primary schools, the program will run for six months, focusing on three critical pillars: Nutrition, Awareness, and Education.

Supported by the PepsiCo Foundation as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, this program titled "Fortified Multigrain & Millet-Based Supplementation to Address Malnutrition in 3-14-Year-Old Children from Urban Slum Communities of Mumbai" seeks to create lasting change in the health and well-being of young children. Designed based on evidence, it will be implemented in select balwadis and municipal schools across Mumbai.

A Collaborative Effort to Tackle Malnutrition

The launch event, held in Mumbai, was graced by several key figures, including Prachi Jambhekar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, Education & Planning; Mr. Rajesh Kankal, Primary Education Officer; Mrs. Chaya Salve, Superintendent of Education; and Mukhtar Shah, Deputy Education Officer (PP CELL). Ward administration officers, school principals, and Balwadi coordinators were also present to show their support.

Dr. Bhushan Gagrani (IAS), Municipal Commissioner of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), delivered a video message praising Akshaya Chaitanya and the PepsiCo Foundation for their dedication to launching this critical initiative. He emphasized that the "Bowl of Growth" program aligns seamlessly with the state government's efforts to eradicate malnutrition, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in tackling such pressing issues. He also stressed the need to expand this program across Maharashtra to reach more children.

Program’s Alignment with Government Goals

Mrs. Prachi Jambhekar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, Education & Planning, welcomed the initiative, stating that it perfectly aligns with state objectives to address malnourishment in children aged 3 to 14 years. "This program not only supports children's health but also enhances their educational outcomes, ultimately benefiting society and the nation at large," she remarked. Mrs. Jambhekar also expressed hope that the initiative could be scaled up to cover even more children in the future.

Addressing a Public Health Crisis

Vikas Parchhanda, CEO of Akshaya Chaitanya, spoke about the dire situation in Mumbai’s urban slums, where 40% of children are stunted and 14% are underweight due to poverty, food insecurity, and inadequate access to healthcare. "Malnutrition is not just a challenge but a pressing public health crisis in India, contributing to 45% of global under-five child deaths. Through this program, we are not just providing meals; we are nourishing the minds and bodies of the next generation," he said.

The intervention will include nutritional supplementation and structured education sessions for caregivers on child health, nutrition, and hygiene practices. Follow-up evaluations will be conducted at three months for balwadi children to assess growth and health parameters, while anthropometric and anemia screenings will be done for schoolchildren using non-invasive AI tools at the start and at two-month and four-month intervals.

A Step Towards a Healthier Future

The "Bowl of Growth Program" marks a significant step in the fight against child malnutrition in Mumbai. Through public-private collaboration and a comprehensive approach that integrates both nutrition and education, the initiative seeks to ensure that every child in its reach has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.