We have adopted the decentralised kitchen model in remote locations where difficult terrain and poor road connectivity hinder the feasibility of setting up a large infrastructure. As the implementing partner for the Government’s flagship school feeding programme, PM-POSHAN, we have always endeavoured to reach out to as many children as possible—even in the most remote areas. The decentralised model is ideal as it allows us to navigate the challenges faced in such areas. If a hot, nutritious mid-day meal serves as an incentive for children to come to school, then it is important that we reach out to the children in remote areas of the country.

In decentralised kitchens, local women undertake the cooking process under the guidance and supervision of Akshaya Patra. They are trained in the Foundation’s kitchen processes and operations module to ensure that safe, nutritious mid-day meals are cooked and served to children. The model also facilitates community participation as the women are part of the local community. Each decentralised kitchen typically serves one school. However, there are cases where two schools are served by one kitchen as they are on the same premises.

We have adopted the decentralised model in Baran, Rajasthan, and Nayagarh, Odisha.