Hoshiarpur leads the way: First dist to roll out community-based Montessori training
In a step towards strengthening early childhood education, the district administration of Hoshiarpur, in collaboration with the Indian Red Cross Society, has launched a community-based Montessori training programme—the first such initiative in Punjab at the district-level.
Addressing a press conference at the District Administrative Complex, Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain said that the training programme, which commenced on February 16, 2026, covers 50 government Anganwadi centres and pre-primary schools in its pilot phase. A total of 67 functionaries—including 50 teachers and Anganwadi workers along with 17 supervisors are undergoing modular training that will continue in phases until September 30, 2026. She added that more centres will be brought under the project in the coming months.
The programme is being conducted by Vivek High Montessori Institute, an AMI-affiliated institute in North India. The project is being implemented under the leadership of Red Cross Secretary Mangesh Sood and is supported under the CSR initiative of Kuantum Papers Limited. The Deputy Commissioner appreciated the company’s contribution to social development initiatives in the district.
Highlighting the vision behind the initiative, DC Aashika Jain said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is witnessing significant reforms in the education sector, including exposure and advanced training opportunities for teachers. “Early childhood- up to six years of age-is the most formative stage in a child’s development. Providing international-standard training to educators at this level will create a lasting positive impact on future generations,” she said.
She emphasised that the objective extends beyond training. “We aim to transform government Anganwadi centres and pre-primary classrooms into vibrant learning environments that foster independence, discipline, creativity and self-confidence among children,” she stated.
The Montessori-based teaching approach focuses on experiential learning, child-centric pedagogy and strengthening foundational skills through structured classroom practices. As part of the initiative, the Red Cross Balvatika Crèche will be developed into a model Montessori centre. A detailed PowerPoint presentation outlining the project framework was also showcased during the press briefing.
The Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain expressed confidence that the initiative will benefit hundreds of children across the district and position Hoshiarpur as a model district in early childhood education.
Among those present on the occasion were District Education Officer (Elementary) Harjinder Kaur, Deputy DEO Amandeep Sharma, CDPO Ravinder Kaur, Daya Rani and other officials.
