Pune, Dec 5 : Deutsche Bank and The Akshaya Patra Foundation have taken another significant step in their joint mission to combat classroom hunger by initiating the construction of a state-of-the-art kitchen in Shivajinagar, Pune. This facility, set to be operational by early 2026, will prepare and deliver over 25,000 hot, nutritious meals daily to students in government and government-aided schools under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) scheme.
The groundbreaking ceremony was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Kaushik Shaparia, CEO, Deutsche Bank Group India; Ruchi Khemka, Head of CSR, Deutsche Bank Group India; Shridhar Venkat, CEO of The Akshaya Patra Foundation; Sampati Dasa, Regional President, Akshaya Patra Pune; Sri Prithviraj BP, IAS, and Praveen NR, IFS, alongside senior government representatives and other distinguished guests.
Highlighting the project’s significance, Kaushik Shaparia remarked, “At Deutsche Bank, collaboration drives our social impact initiatives. This new kitchen reflects our enduring commitment to tackling hunger and supporting education, empowering students to reach their potential. With our presence in Pune, we’re excited to involve our employees in this transformative effort, fostering sustainable community development.”
Shridhar Venkat** emphasized the initiative’s broader implications, stating, “This facility is a milestone in our mission with Deutsche Bank to eradicate classroom hunger while strengthening educational opportunities in Pune. Beyond providing meals, the kitchen will promote community health, boost local agriculture, and create employment opportunities. We are grateful for Deutsche Bank’s steadfast support and the Maharashtra Government’s partnership in nurturing the potential of every child.”
Designed as Akshaya Patra’s central kitchen in Pune, the facility will meet the highest hygiene and safety standards, contributing to better school attendance, improved academic performance, and enhanced well-being for children in marginalized communities.
This partnership between Deutsche Bank and Akshaya Patra has been in place since 2014, delivering over 8 crore meals to children in Jaipur, Bengaluru, and Pune. Deutsche Bank has also expanded its support by funding meals for an additional 2,000 children in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad.
