On this World Food Day, Kolkata based IHA Foundation continues to stand at the forefront of the battle against food and nutrition insecurity, recognizing the urgency to address this critical issue. Despite India's commendable progress in food grain production, the nation grapples with alarming rates of malnutrition, ranking 107th out of 121 countries on the 2022 Global Hunger Index, with a severity score of 29.1.While India has witnessed substantial achievements in food grain production and a decline in malnutrition rates, there exists a stark reality that cannot be ignored. Malnutrition remains a persistent challenge, with 35 percent and 19 percent of children under 5 years experiencing stunting and wasting, respectively. Notably, anemia rates are shockingly high, reaching 57 percent among women of reproductive age and 67 percent among children aged 6-59 months.

In response to these challenges, IHA Foundation has initiated its humble effort and had launched Project Zero Hunger – Langar/Food on Wheels, a two year-long initiative aimed at addressing food insecurity. The project has been steadfast in its commitment to the singular goal of ensuring that no one sleeps hungry. IHA foundation has remained resolute in serving the needy, underprivileged, and poor, having provided over 50 Lakhs meals recently during this period.

This year's World Food Day theme, "Leave No One Behind," resonates deeply with the ethos of Langar/Food on Wheels — the unwavering commitment that no one shall sleep hungry. In the midst of the joyous celebrations and festive spirit of Durga Puja, IHA Foundation is unwavering in its commitment to ensuring that no one in Kolkata goes to bed hungry. Recognizing the disparity that exists during this Festive season, where many revel in abundance, IHA Foundation has launched a special one-week drive dedicated to the noble cause of eradicating hunger. Beyond providing nourishment, the initiative extends its caring touch to the very essence of life—water. Volunteers from the IHA Foundation have taken to the vibrant streets of Kolkata, not only to feed the underprivileged but also to address the silent issue of leaking taps. In a proactive effort, they are scouting for and fixing leaks, ensuring that no precious drop of water goes to waste. IHA Foundation volunteers also educated and made the local people aware about saving water, and the ways and means of conserving the water like rainwater harvesting, storage and filtration of water. This initiative reflects the Foundation's holistic approach, embracing both sustenance and conservation, embodying the true spirit of compassion and community service during the festive season.

Satnam Singh Ahluwalia, Chairman of IHA Foundation, emphasized, "World Food Day goes beyond a mere celebration; it is a call to action. Starvation is a pervasive issue, particularly in our Country and which needs to be immediately addressed after 75 years of Independence. We must raise awareness and take tangible steps to combat this problem. Our vision is to build a sustainable world where everyone, everywhere has regular access to nutritious food. No one should be left behind. As part of its ongoing mission, IHA Foundation remains dedicated to serving those in need, and advocating for a hunger-free world. The foundation encourages collaboration and support from individuals, organizations, and policymakers to collectively address the root causes of food insecurity and malnutrition.”