Historic Inauguration of First Model Anganwadi-Cum-Creche in Dadumajra, U.T. Chandigarh
Chandigarh, 9th July 2024 – Today marks a momentous occasion as the first Model Anganwadi-Cum-Creche was inaugurated by Shri Banwarilal Purohit, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab & Administrator U.T. Chandigarh alongwith Sh. Rajeev Verma IAS, Adviser to Chandigarh Administrators in Dadumajra, Chandigarh.
This landmark initiative underscores the commitment to advancing early childhood care and education, aligning with India’s vision to achieve developed nation status by 2047.
The Model Anganwadi-Cum-Creche represents a pivotal initiative aimed at consolidating essential services under the Anganwadi Services Scheme. These services include supplementary nutrition, immunization, health check-ups, referral services, non-formal preschool education, and nutrition & health education. By integrating these services into one facility, the initiative aims to significantly enhance the well-being and development of children in the community.
Shri Banwarilal Purohit, Hon’ble Governor of Punjab & Administrator U.T. Chandigarh, commended the Department of Social Welfare, Women & Child Development for their dedicated efforts in establishing the first Model Anganwadi-Cum-Creche in U.T., Chandigarh. He emphasized that this milestone reflects the commitment to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat, aiming for a developed India by 2047.
The event also featured the distribution of ‘Poshan ki Tokri’—an Iron Kadhai containing Premix Khichdi, Dalia, and Nutri Packets to pregnant women. This was followed by an ‘Annaprashan’ ceremony, introducing Sooji ki Kheer and Poshtik Khichdi to infants at six months, highlighting the importance of nutrition in early childhood.
The Model Anganwadi-Cum-Creche will foster a culture of activity-based learning, providing a stress-free environment for children through innovative classroom settings and engaging, self-directed activities. This initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring the holistic development of children and the empowerment of mothers in the community.
Anganwadi centres serve as crucial points for community health and nutrition systems, focusing on the holistic development of children and empowering mothers.
Ms. Hargunjit Kaur IAS, Secretary Social Welfare & Women Child Development, Dr. Palika Arora PCS, Director Social Welfare, and other senior officers of the Chandigarh Administration, was also present during the event.