PM Modi Calls for Transforming Anganwadis into Hubs of Community Participation at Women and Child Development Summit

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi presided over the closing session of the two-day National Departmental Summit on Women and Child Development held at the Sushma Swaraj Bhawan in New Delhi. The summit saw participation from senior officials and ministers from various states and Union Territories. During the event, critical topics such as nutrition, early childhood care, the safety and empowerment of women and children, and the strengthening of service delivery were discussed in depth.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of a shared decision-making process between the Center and the states. He suggested that states could extend this model to the district, municipal, and metropolitan levels by organizing 'Chintan Shivirs' (brainstorming camps). Additionally, he proposed organizing special Chintan Shivirs for Anganwadi workers to allow them to share ground-level experiences and practical solutions.

Emphasizing the role of public participation, the Prime Minister stated that Anganwadi centers should become centers of community engagement rather than remaining isolated institutions. He suggested encouraging local families to contribute by providing nutritious food and toys for the children. He further urged universities and educational institutions to adopt Anganwadi centers and conduct studies on social impact, providing students an opportunity to contribute and improve service delivery. This initiative would include the participation of medical students as well as volunteers from the National Service Scheme (NSS) and the National Cadet Corps (NCC).

Discussing the development of women and adolescent girls, the Prime Minister called for a greater focus on the health, nutrition, and overall development of teenage girls. He emphasized the creation of age-appropriate modules for children regarding the safety and dignity of women and stressed the need for preventative measures through coordination between various departments.

Clarifying the link between health and hygiene, Mr. Modi urged the Department of Women and Child Development to take active responsibility for the 'Swachhata Abhiyan' (Cleanliness Mission). He noted that better nutrition and health begin with cleanliness.

Regarding women's empowerment, the Prime Minister spoke about promoting national movements such as 'Vocal for Local' and 'One District One Product' (ODOP). He stated that women's groups and community organizations can play a vital role in strengthening local products and economic empowerment. The Prime Minister concluded by stating that the children currently developing in Anganwadi centers will be the ones to build a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) in the future.