Sri N.K. Mohan Kumar, Convener, Aahara Samrakshana Janajagruti Abhiyana, Bengaluru, delivering a talk on the topic, ‘Importance of Food,’ at the JSS Residential School, Suttur.
Suttur, November 15, 2024: A powerful message on food conservation was delivered by N.K. Mohan Kumar, Convener of Aahara Samrakshana Janajagruti Abhiyana, Bengaluru, at a talk titled “Importance of Food” held at JSS Residential School in Suttur. Addressing students and guests, Mr. Mohan Kumar emphasized the importance of preventing food waste and ensuring it reaches those in need.
“Rice is a lifeline for us,” he stated, urging individuals to take only as much food as they can consume. “In our culture, we revere rice as the goddess Annapurneshwari, the goddess of food. According to a report, 10% of the population struggles to get even one full meal a day. Many people are starving daily. I hope all food can reach those in need instead of going to waste. Farmers toil for months to produce our food, and we must respect their efforts. If we waste food, we may face shortages in the future. I believe the government should consider introducing a law to fine those who waste food,” he observed passionately.
Sri H.K. Vivekananda, a prominent thinker from the Prabhuddha Samaja Nirmana Forum and respected writer, also addressed the audience. He highlighted the widespread issue of malnutrition in the country. “We should consume food with consideration for our physical health. Include tender coconut, fruits, and vegetables in your diet. Awareness needs to be raised to prevent food waste. Don’t kill food. Many maths and social organizations are already spreading awareness about the importance of food. When we are hungry, we eat rice, not money—everyone should understand this. During functions, particularly among affluent communities, a variety of foods are prepared, but much is wasted. It’s disheartening to see food left on plates. We must all recognize the struggles farmers face to grow our food grains and work to prevent waste,” he added.
The program saw the participation of Sri M. Yuvaraj, Convener of Aahara Samrakshana Janajagruti Abhiyana, Bengaluru, along with members Venkatagiri and Mahadevaprasad, Warden of Basaveshwara Boys Hostel in Suttur, and P. Susheela, Warden of Akkamahadevi Girls Hostel in Suttur. Caretakers and students were also present.
The event began with a farmers’ anthem, performed by Vachana singer H.C. Umesh, setting a reflective tone for the gathering. Mahadevaprasad welcomed the attendees and served as the program’s master of ceremonies, while D.M. Mahesh gave the vote of thanks. M. Yuvaraju led the attendees in a solemn oath to prevent food waste and respect food as a valuable resource.
This event reinforced the commitment to food conservation and emphasized the social responsibility to prevent food wastage, ensuring a better future for all.