Byline: Manjeet Sehgal | Date: March 2, 2026 | Time: 12:15 AM | Location: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
SHIMLA: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is leading a transformative shift in child health and primary education. The state government is now prioritizing the well-being of young children through 18,925 Anganwadi centers and 15,181 government schools. Under the ‘Chief Minister Bal Poshan Aahar Yojana,’ officials are providing nutritious food to over 5.34 lakh students. This comprehensive campaign ensures that Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) reaches the grassroots level. Consequently, the state aims to build a mentally and physically robust future for its youth.
Coordination of Saksham Anganwadi and Education
The state government recently declared all Anganwadi centers as ‘Anganwadi-cum-Schools’ to strengthen early childhood care. To ensure smooth implementation, a state-level joint committee now operates under the Education Secretary. Currently, the state has approved 1,030 ‘Saksham’ (capable) Anganwadi centers. Specifically, the government is fast-tracking work in 100 centers within the Chamba district to address regional needs.
Financial records show that the state spent ₹113 crore on the Anganwadi Service Scheme this year. Additionally, the Special Nutrition Program utilized ₹1516.09 lakh to enhance food quality. The government has also trained supervisors as ‘State Level Master Trainers.’ These experts ensure that every center operates according to World Health Organization (WHO) standards.
Kitchen Gardens: A Nutrition Classroom in Schools
The ‘Kitchen Garden’ initiative is now a successful model in 14,464 schools across Himachal Pradesh. Mid-Day Meal workers and School Management Committees collaborate to grow seasonal vegetables and herbs on school grounds. This initiative turns the schoolyard into a practical classroom for health.
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Natural Farming: Teachers educate children on the vital benefits of chemical-free, organic food.
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Space Management: Schools with limited land now use pots and large containers for farming.
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Fresh Diet: Kitchen staff use the harvest directly in Mid-Day Meals to ensure maximum freshness.
New Incentives for Mid-Day Meal Workers
Chief Minister Sukhu has recognized the hard work of 21,115 Mid-Day Meal workers across the state. Therefore, the government increased their monthly honorarium by ₹500. These workers will now receive ₹5,000 per month for their dedicated service. These policies are effectively improving nutritional levels while creating an inclusive and healthy Himachal.
