Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi Initiative

Context (PIB): The ‘Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi’ initiative was launched in 2023 under the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 scheme to enhance the focus of the Anganwadi system on early childhood care and education (ECCE).

• Objective: Transform Anganwadi centres into learning hubs with high-quality infrastructure and well-trained Anganwadi workers.
• Focus: Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) to foster the creative, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children under six, including children with disabilities (divyang children).

Curriculum Frameworks

1. Navchetana (2024): Targets early childhood stimulation for children from birth to three years, promoting holistic development through responsive caregiving and opportunities for early learning.
2. Aadharshila (2024): Focuses on early childhood care and education for children from three to six years, encompassing various developmental domains including physical/motor, cognitive, language and literacy, socio-emotional, cultural/aesthetic, and the formation of positive habits.

Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0

• Description: An integrated nutrition support program aimed at combating malnutrition among children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
• Funding: Centrally sponsored with a 60:40 funding ratio between the central and state governments.

Features

• Monitoring: Utilizes the Poshan Tracker App for evaluation and support of interventions.
• Community Mobilization and Behavior Change: Engages the community through various activities to promote behavior change.
• Jan Andolan (People’s Movement): Includes initiatives like Poshan Maah (September) and Poshan Pakhwada (March) to raise awareness and promote nutritional practices.
• Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE): Focus on early education and development.
• Incentives and Awards: Recognizes and rewards field functionaries and significant efforts in the program.