India has to work hard to get its rightful place: President

India must work hard to get get rid of hunger, illiteracy, disease and destitution to claim its "rightful place" in the comity of nations, President Pranab Mukherjee said on Saturday.

"India can reap the demographic dividend only if we succeed in educating and skilling our youth, especially our children. Our children should be educated and healthy," he said at a function to commemorate Akshaya Patra Foundation's serving of two billion meals to school children, a statement said.

He complimented the foundation for having played an exemplary role, through its fresh and nutritious meals, for drawing millions of Indian children to their classrooms every day.

The President also urged everyone to contribute in whatever way possible to the noble project of ending hunger amongst school children.

He said even the biggest of challenges, can be addressed through collective efforts of the community, NGOs and the government.

--IANS

sk/vd