Nourishing Futures: IndiVillage Foundation’s Impactful Interventions in Collaboration with the Annapoorna Trust
IndiVillage Foundation
Founded in 2019, IndiVillage Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the learning and skill gap among rural communities in India. Focused primarily on Karnataka, the Foundation empowers children and youth with 21st-century skills that paves way to sustainable livelihoods. Their holistic development programs address academic needs, nutritional and emotional well-being, laying the groundwork for a healthier, more capable generation of tomorrow.
A Strategic Alliance
On October 15, 2024, IndiVillage Foundation and Annapoorna Trust entered into an MoU to provide the Morning Nutrition for 50,000 government school children of Raichur, Bagalkot, and Udupi. This MoU has marked the beginning of a three-year early childhood intervention program, combining nutrition, literacy, and emotional wellness in Karnataka.
Focus on Aspirational Districts: The Urgent Need in Raichur
Among the regions covered, Raichur stands out as an aspirational district—a classification by NITI Aayog denoting areas with critical developmental gaps. In these districts, educational and health indicators are particularly low, making such interventions both timely and necessary. The combined efforts of IndiVillage and Annapoorna address these challenges ensures children in Raichur, Bagalkot, and Udupi receive the support they need to thrive.
On-Ground Implementation: Reaching 50,000 Children
The nutrition program currently spans 330 government schools across Raichur, Bagalkot, and Udupi serving 50,000 students over 110 school days. Delivering more than 5.5 million servings per annum.
The morning nutrition variant, “SaiSure Ragi” which is a fortified Mixture is combined with Milk provided by the Government of Karnataka under Ksheera Bhagya scheme and served to the children as they arrive to school. Parallelly, the literacy program installs engaging and age-appropriate libraries, promoting reading and cognitive development.
Positive Outcomes and Recognitions
The joint initiative has already begun to yield measurable benefits: improved health and immunity, reduction in morning hunger, increased focus and class participation, better attendance and punctuality, improved academic performance, enhanced motivation among teachers, and long-term development of literate, healthy, and productive citizens.
Also, Akanchha Sharma, Head of Operations representing IndiVillage Foundation, was honoured with the Power of Poshan Award at Sathya Sai Grama —a testament to the transformative potential of their work.
It has been a promising beginning for the partnership between IndiVillage Foundation and Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust. As the program continues to grow, it will stand as a powerful model for sustainable, community-driven development—one that nurtures not only the minds but also the well-being of the youngest members of society.
