Punjab Governor and Administrator, UT Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria Inaugurates 16 Upgraded Model Anganwadi Centres
The Voice of Chandigarh News:
In a significant step towards enhancing early childhood care and nutrition, Governor of Punjab and Administrator UT Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria, inaugurated the newly upgraded 16 Model Anganwadi buildings at Ramdarbar Anganwadi. Four Model Anganwadi centers were physically inaugurated, while the remaining 12 Anganwadi Centres were inaugurated virtually, functional at Bapudham, Mauli Colony, Palsora, and Maloya, as part of the 7th Poshan Pakhwada 2025 observance.
The event was also graced by Rajeev Verma, Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, Anuradha S. Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare, Women and Child Development, and Dr. Palika Arora, Director, Social Welfare, Chandigarh Administration.
To commemorate the occasion, a special publication titled “Nanhe Kadamo Ki Neev” was also released, which focuses on the first 1000 days of a child’s life—a critical window for nutrition, health, and cognitive development. The booklet emphasizes the importance of early interventions in laying the foundation for a child’s lifelong well-being.
On this occasion, the Gulab Chand Kataria applauded the efforts of the Department of Social Welfare, emphasizing that the upgradation of Anganwadi Centres signifies a vital investment not only in infrastructural development but in the future of the children. He noted that these enhanced centres symbolize the values of dignity, safety, and opportunity, and that even seemingly modest improvements—such as upgraded learning materials and clean, child-friendly environments—can have a profound impact on a child’s early developmental journey.
Rajeev Verma, Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, highlighted the broader vision of the initiative, stating that the transformation of these centres demonstrates a sustained and comprehensive commitment to early childhood care, nutrition, and education. He further remarked that the upgraded Model Anganwadi Centres are a reflection of collective responsibility, ensuring that every child and every mother has equitable access to care, respect, and opportunities essential for holistic well-being.
Smt. Anuradha S. Chagti, Secretary, Social Welfare, Women and Child Development, acknowledged the longstanding role of these Anganwadi Centres within their respective communities. She observed that their transformation into Model Anganwadi Centres, now equipped with improved infrastructure and facilities, is a significant step forward in promoting safe, stimulating, and developmentally supportive environments for children.
These Anganwadi centres, she added, are now better positioned to address the nutritional and educational needs of both children and mothers in a more effective and impactful manner.
As part of the event, an Annaprashan ceremony was also conducted, symbolising the introduction of complementary feeding for infants—an important milestone in a child’s nutritional journey. This culturally significant ritual underscored the department’s focus on promoting optimal infant and young child feeding practices as part of its broader commitment to child health and nutrition.
As the primary point of contact for many children in their early years, Anganwadi Centres play a critical role in the provision of nutrition, healthcare, and foundational learning.
The newly developed model centres now incorporate modern, child-centric infrastructure, enhanced sanitation facilities, age-appropriate learning materials, and nurturing environments—fostering comprehensive and inclusive early childhood development.
In recognition of their creativity and participation, children from Snehalaya (Home for Boys) and Aashiana (Home for Girls) were rewarded for their contributions to wall paintings at the Model Anganwadi Centres. Their artwork has added vibrant, child-friendly visual elements to the Anganwadi centres, making the learning environment more engaging and welcoming.
The Department of Social Welfare reaffirmed its dedication to working collaboratively with communities to ensure that every child in Chandigarh receives the care, respect, and opportunity for a healthy and bright future
