Indian Prime Minister Calls for Enhanced Focus on Girls' Health

New Delhi, 9 October 2023 - Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised the need for increased attention to the health, nutrition, and overall development of adolescent girls. Speaking at a national summit on women and child development, he proposed the creation of age-appropriate educational modules focused on women's safety, dignity, and empowerment.

Addressing participants during the closing session of the two-day summit, organised by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Modi stressed the importance of implementing preventive measures through coordinated efforts among various government departments. The summit aimed to facilitate discussions among ministers and senior officials from states and Union territories, focusing on key issues including child safety, nutrition, and women's empowerment.

Modi commended the productive discussions at the summit and highlighted the necessity for collaborative decision-making between the central government and local authorities. He encouraged states to replicate this model at the district and municipal levels, suggesting the organisation of similar brainstorming sessions for Anganwadi Workers. These sessions would enable sharing of experiences and innovative solutions from the field.

The Prime Minister advocated for the principle of Jan Bhagidari, or community participation, arguing that Anganwadi centres should not operate in isolation but engage with their surrounding communities. He suggested that families could actively contribute to these centres by donating nutritious food and useful items for children, especially during special occasions.

Moreover, he called for deeper collaboration between universities and Anganwadi centres, proposing that universities adopt nearby centres to conduct social impact studies. This engagement would not only allow students to contribute positively to their communities but also gather insights that could enhance service delivery.

Modi underscored the close link between cleanliness, health, and nutrition, urging Women and Child Development Departments nationwide to take ownership of the Swachhata Abhiyan (Cleanliness Campaign). He reiterated that good health starts with cleanliness and that Anganwadi centres, along with their local communities, could serve as key platforms for fostering behavioural change in this regard.

The Prime Minister also recommended promoting national initiatives like Vocal for Local and One District One Product (ODOP) as means to empower women. He noted that women's collectives and community organisations could play a crucial role in enhancing local products, livelihoods, and economic empowerment.

Emphasising the significant responsibilities held by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Modi stated that the children nurtured in Anganwadi centres today are the foundation for a developed and prosperous nation in the future. Annpurna Devi, the Minister for Women and Child Development, echoed this sentiment, affirming the government's commitment to strengthening coordination between the Centre and states in matters of women's empowerment and child welfare.

Following the summit, Modi shared his reflections on social media, describing it as a fruitful exchange of ideas and established practices. His remarks underline the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of women and children across India.