Childhood Blossoms in Anganwadi Centres: Future Flourishes Like a Playschool

Innovative Approach Brings Holistic Learning, Nutrition, and Values

Raipur : “Smile, you are at an Anganwadi Centre”—this slogan is now becoming a reality. In Rajnandgaon district, the transformed “Saksham Anganwadi Centres” are redefining early childhood education and care. These centres now resemble vibrant playschools and pre-nurseries where children are learning joyfully through play and creativity.

At Saksham Anganwadi Centres No. 1 and 3 in Bhothipar Khurd, and Centre No. 3 in Singhola, young children are being introduced to letters, poems, songs, and general knowledge in an age-appropriate, playful manner. The walls are adorned with colourful paintings and educational materials, and child-centric activities have sparked enthusiasm for learning. Poems like “Aloo Kachaloo beta kahan gaye the…” are being recited joyfully by the little ones.

Owing to the effective implementation of state government schemes, these rural Anganwadi centres have become hubs of awareness, nutrition, and education. Messages promoting gender equality, child health, and positive social values—like “Boys and girls are equal,” and “Healthy growth equals a good child”—are creating awareness and shifting social mindsets. Pregnant women are receiving hot nutritious meals, adolescent girls are being educated on health and hygiene, and children are consistently provided supplementary nutrition.

Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, stated that Anganwadi centres across the state are being strengthened and redesigned along the lines of playschools to offer holistic development opportunities from an early age. She emphasized that under Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership, the state government is giving top priority to the welfare of children, mothers, and adolescent girls.

District Programme Officer Smt. Gurpreet Kaur informed that schemes like the Mukhyamantri Bal Sandarbh Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, Mahtari Vandana Yojana, Noni Suraksha Yojana, and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana are being effectively implemented in the district.

A unique initiative at Centre No. 3 in Bhothipar Khurd includes celebrating children’s birthdays through a special calendar called “Mor Janam Din”. These centres are well-equipped with play and study materials, along with a clean and safe environment.

The active participation of Anganwadi workers such as Smt. Godavari Sahu and Smt. Poonam Yadav, along with their assistants, has been commendable. The bright smiles and active engagement of children are a testament to the transformation—Anganwadi Centres are no longer just places for nutrition, but are emerging as centres of learning, culture, and compassion.