Govt integrates Anganwadi centers with primary schools for smoother early learning

The government announced new measures to integrate Anganwadi centers with primary schools, allowing them to operate on the same campus.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled the guidelines on Sept 2 at Vigyan Bhavan in Delhi, with Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi in attendance.

The initiative is designed to link early childhood care with formal schooling, combining health, nutrition, and learning into a single framework.

Officials said this approach will help children transition smoothly into school while strengthening the connection between Anganwadi workers and schools.

Speaking at the event, Annapurna Devi said the move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a 'Developed India.'

“The future cannot be secured without first taking care of pregnant mothers, newborns, and preschool children,” she said.

She also proposed a new learning module for Anganwadi workers who have not studied beyond class 12 but wish to continue their education.

Officials added that a digital push will provide rural and semi-urban schools with resources previously limited to urban areas.

Technology, particularly artificial intelligence, could support Anganwadi workers in teaching young children in Indian languages, making early learning more effective.

The education ministry also plans to expand broadband access to nearly two lakh private and government high schools over the next three years.

Recent surveys by ASER and PARAKH have shown rural children outperforming urban peers in certain learning areas, a trend the government attributes to the efforts of Anganwadi workers.

The scale of the challenge is significant, with around 15 crore children in India in the preschool and early primary stages.

Their health and education are priorities under national programs such as 'Nipun Bharat' and the broader vision of 'Developed India 2047.'

By bringing Anganwadi centers and schools under one roof, the government aims to bridge the gap between early childhood care and formal education, ensuring a stronger foundation for children across the country.