The district administration of Gumla has launched an intensive 15-day campaign aimed at comprehensively transforming all 495 Anganwadi centres (AWCs) across the district. The primary goal of this initiative is to foster a smarter and more conducive learning environment for young children.
Officers Lead the Charge for Child Welfare
This special drive, which began two days ago, mobilises the entire social welfare department. Under the directive of District Commissioner Prerna Dixit, officers are personally visiting the centres to oversee a complete overhaul. Their focus areas include ensuring children maintain personal hygiene by having trimmed nails and combed hair, wearing clean clothes, and learning in a secure and clean atmosphere.
The team driving this campaign includes District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) Arti Kumari, three Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), and 29 lady supervisors. Their mandate is not only to monitor but to actively participate in revamping every AWC to meet the new standards.
Focus on Cleanliness and Systematic Learning
The officers are conducting thorough inspections of multiple aspects of the Anganwadi centres. This includes checking the cleanliness of the centres themselves, the kitchens where meals are prepared, the quality of foodstuffs, and the condition of children's seating and play areas. The availability and state of primary learning materials are also being assessed.
A key part of the campaign is instilling good habits in the children. Officers and supervisors are directly teaching the toddlers the importance of personal upkeep. Furthermore, DC Prerna Dixit has given specific instructions to the AWC sevikas to maintain the cleanliness of the children and to organise their centres in a systematic manner.
DSWO Arti Kumari stated that this hands-on approach by government officers is already making a positive impact. "This approach has reflected a change in the mindset of parents when they see that the officers are taking care of their children's upkeep. The move will sustain in the future as well," she said on Friday.
Sustained Efforts for Lasting Change
To ensure the campaign's effectiveness and coverage, the team is adopting a structured approach. An official involved revealed that 33 Anganwadi centres are being covered each day under this special initiative. This systematic pace ensures that all 495 centres will receive attention and necessary improvements within the fortnight.
The campaign represents a significant push by the Gumla district administration to elevate early childhood care and education infrastructure. By integrating hygiene, safety, and organised learning environments, the initiative aims to build a stronger foundation for the district's youngest citizens, ensuring the benefits continue well beyond the campaign's duration.
