Himachal CM Sukhu puts child nutrition at core of good governance
Government has declared all anganwadi centres as ‘anganwadi co-schools'
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said the state government has placed child nutrition and early development at the centre of governance agenda. “With a clear focus on nutrition, quality education and inclusive growth, the government is committed to ensuring that every child in receives the support and opportunities needed to thrive and succeed,” Sukhu said.
Recognising that balanced and nutritious food is essential for both physical growth and mental well-being, the CM said the government had intensified efforts to secure the health of Himachal’s youngest citizens. “Across the state, 18,925 anganwadi centres are serving as pillars of community care, catering to the nutritional and early educational needs of children. During the current financial year, Rs 113 crore has been spent under the Anganwadi Services scheme, while Rs 1,516.09 lakh has been utilised under the Special Nutrition Programme,” he said.
Sukhu added that in a step towards holistic child development, the government has declared all anganwadi centres as ‘anganwadi co-schools’. “The progressive move aims to integrate early childhood care with formal schooling, strengthening the foundation of learning,” he said.
Further strengthening this framework, 1,030 Saksham Anganwadi centres have been approved in the state, including 100 in Chamba district alone. The state government has also launched the Mukhyamantri Bal Poshan Aahar Yojana, extending nutritious meals to students in all government schools. Under the scheme, 5.34 lakh students studying in 15,181 government schools are receiving a wholesome and balanced meal. Complementing the initiative is the highly successful a ‘kitchen garden’ movement, the CM added. Implemented in 14,464 schools, these gardens produce seasonal vegetables and herbs with the collective efforts of mid-day meal workers, teachers, school management committees and students.
