Ensuring balanced and nutritious food for children is central to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. With this objective, the Himachal Pradesh government is focusing on strengthening nutrition and early childhood education across the state.
Currently, 18,925 Anganwadi Centres in Himachal Pradesh are providing nutritional support and early learning opportunities to children under six years of age. The growth and health parameters of these children are monitored regularly. During the current fiscal year, the state government has spent Rs. 113 crore under the Anganwadi Services Scheme and Rs. 15.16 crore under the Special Nutrition Programme.
To ensure holistic early education and child care, all Anganwadi Centres have been declared as “Anganwadi Co-Schools”, aligning with guidelines from the Ministries of Women & Child Development and Education. A state-level committee headed by the Secretary (Education) has been constituted to oversee their effective implementation.
Under the ongoing upgrade, 1030 “Saksham Anganwadi Centres” have been approved across the state, including 100 in Chamba district. All DPOs, CDPOs, and Supervisors have been trained as Master Trainers, who will in turn train Anganwadi Workers to enhance service quality.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has also launched the Mukhyamantri Bal Poshan Aahar Yojna, under which nutritious meals are provided to 5.34 lakh students studying in 15,181 government schools.
Further, the innovative “Kitchen Garden” initiative has been implemented in 14,464 schools, promoting natural farming and healthy eating habits among children. Vegetables grown in these gardens are used in mid-day meals, ensuring access to fresh and healthy food.
Recognizing the dedication of mid-day meal workers, the Chief Minister has enhanced their monthly honorarium by Rs. 500, bringing it to Rs. 5,000 per month for 21,115 workers.
Nutrition is every child’s right. By implementing targeted schemes and community-based initiatives, the Himachal Pradesh government is fostering a healthier and brighter future for its children — building the foundation for a prosperous and self-reliant society.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
