Sakshita and Sana are close friends studying in the Zilla Parishad High School in Patancheru. Though they are both dedicated students and class toppers, this does not give rise to competition and affect their friendship.
Sakshita studying in standard VIII loves English and Mathematics. Her mother is a housewife, while her father earns a living as a car driver. “I want to become a teacher and teach the rural children,” she says, speaking of her ambitions. As a beneficiary of Akshaya Patra’s mid-day meal Sakshita gets a nutritious meal every day that helps her concentrate and do well in class. "I love the Akshaya Patra meals especially the Biryani (mixed rice dish) on Thursdays," she says, describing the food.
Sana’s father works as a tailor, and her mother is a housewife. She too wants to teach, but would like to be a lecturer in college. “I love to stand in front of a class and teach. It gives me confidence,” she says. Sana acknowledges that her parents sometimes find it hard to make ends meet at home. This makes the mid-day meal very useful to her, keeping her tummy satisfied, and her mind able to concentrate on her lessons. "I like the Dal (a curry prepared with lentils) served and the Biryani is delicious. I am grateful to Akshaya Patra for providing me with delicious mid-day meals," Sana adds.
The two young girls run back to their class soon after. It is heartening to see such ambitious children, filled with fun and spirit, looking forward to fulfilling their dreams.
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