The Akshaya Patra Foundation has been awarded the Gold Shield for ‘Excellence in Financial Reporting’ by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for the third year in succession. The Gold Shield is the top most award given by the ICAI and is only given to those organizations with the highest level of accounting practices. The award was given based on Akshaya Patra’s Annual Report and the Accounts for the year ending March 31, 2011. Akshaya Patra was selected by a panel of judges on the degree of compliance with accounting standards, statutory guidelines and other relevant pronouncements.

“This award conferred by India’s most prestigious accounting body speaks volumes for the organization’s commitment to transparency and sound accounting practices,” said Madhu Sridhar, Akshaya Patra USA’s President and CEO. “We are overjoyed by the honor and recognition.”

Akshaya Patra maintains a commitment to organizational transparency. The organization is audited by M/s BSR & Co, a leading Indian audit firm, to ensure transparency and accountability of its operations. Furthermore, the Foundation is managed by an independent Board of Trustees, many of whom are leaders in the private sector. Akshaya Patra is also advised in accounting standards and services by the reputed consulting firm KPMG.