The Bangalore-based Akshaya Patra Foundation, which runs the world’s largest NGO-run school meal program will host a national conclave titled ‘Zero to Billion’, in February 01, 2008. 250 eminent CEO’s and leaders from diverse sectors such as corporates, social institutions, philanthropy, art and culture, media and politics will congregate to celebrate the foundation’s success in reaching out to over 8,38,000 children and discuss issues that will help in hunger eradication and enhance child education and attendance in schools. The conclave will be held on February 1, 2008 at Hotel Chancery Pavilion, Bangalore.

The aim of the event is to celebrate the pioneering efforts and dramatic results accomplished by Akshaya Patra in a short span of time, since the date of its inception in the year 2000. Akshaya Patra would also deliberate a solution to address the social evil of widespread hunger and malnutrition affecting 57 million children in India, and the debilitating effects of lack of schooling and resulting illiteracy.

Mr. N R Narayana Murthy, Chief Mentor and Chairman, Infosys has confirmed as the Keynote Speaker and Mr. T V Mohandas Pai, Chief Financial officer, Infosys, is be the Co-Chairperson of the event committee.

The theme of the conference, ‘Zero to Billion’, reflects the need for communities, corporates and institutions to be equal partners in mutual cooperation and collaborate efforts for the development of Child Education. The conference will offer an opportunity for all participants to meet, discuss and share challenges, ideas, resources, and experiences. The goal of the foundation is a national goal, and there-in this conclave gathers immense importance as it looks forward to an India where no child will ever go hungry or miss out on education because of an empty stomach.

Sri Madhu Pandit Das, Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation says, “Zero to Billion,” will give us an opportunity to bring leaders together towards thought – sharing for the noble cause of eradicating hunger from India. With Akshaya Patra’s track record of reaching out to needy children across India through school meal program, we are confident that this platform would result in path-breaking ideas for development in child education and increasing the magnitude of our reach.”