The Delhi government is set to co-locate around 1,000 Anganwadi centres within government schools across the city.
This initiative, scheduled for completion within the next three months, aims to significantly improve the infrastructure and facilities available to young children, aligning with broader objectives of sustainable urban development and integrated child welfare. The relocated Anganwadi centres will be designated as Saksham Anganwadis under the Poshan 2.0 programme, an integrated nutrition support initiative designed to strengthen the nutritional and developmental outcomes for children. The strategic move is not just about infrastructure but also about fostering environments where children can thrive, supported by better healthcare, nutrition, safety, and early learning opportunities.
Officials from the Women and Child Development Department have outlined that the co-located centres will be established in Delhi government schools, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) schools, and institutions run by the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB). The initiative is backed by a collaborative financial arrangement, with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) set to provide crucial funding for infrastructural development through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Currently, 153 MCD schools have been identified for the initial phase of relocation, with the process of identifying additional institutions still underway. This phased approach aims to ensure that the transition is both effective and sustainable, accommodating the specific needs of diverse urban communities. The co-location strategy is expected to yield multiple benefits. For one, it will enable the sharing of resources and facilities between Anganwadi centres and schools, optimising the use of space and infrastructure. This not only reduces operational costs but also fosters a more integrated educational environment where early childhood care seamlessly connects with primary education.
Moreover, the initiative aligns with the principles of creating zero net carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable urban spaces. By utilising existing school infrastructure, the need for new construction is minimised, reducing the environmental footprint and supporting sustainable urban planning. This approach reflects a growing recognition of the role that well-designed urban policies play in shaping healthier, more resilient communities. Experts in child development and urban planning have praised the initiative for its potential to enhance the quality of early childhood education. They emphasise that such integration can significantly improve learning outcomes, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, by providing them with access to better facilities and educational resources from an early age.
However, the implementation of this large-scale relocation will require careful coordination. Ensuring that the newly co-located centres maintain high standards of care and that teachers and staff are adequately trained will be critical to the success of the programme. Additionally, community engagement will play a vital role in addressing any concerns from parents and local stakeholders about the changes. As Delhi continues to expand and evolve as a metropolitan city, initiatives like the co-location of Anganwadi centres with government schools reflect a progressive approach to urban development. They highlight the city’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, sustainable, and child-friendly environment, where every young citizen has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
This move not only represents a significant policy shift but also sets a precedent for other urban centres across India to rethink the way early childhood care and education are integrated into the urban fabric. As the initiative rolls out, it will be closely watched as a model of how smart urban planning can intersect with social welfare to create a lasting impact on the lives of future generations.
Delhi to Co-Locate 1000 Anganwadi Centres with Schools
