Chandigarh, September 29, 2025:In a historic initiative to strengthen child nutrition, maternal health, and early childhood development, Punjab Governor and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, along with Lady Governor, Smt. Anita Kataria, inaugurated the Model Anganwadi Bhawan at Sector 41, Chandigarh today. On this occasion, 20 Model Anganwadi Centres and 30 Saksham Anganwadi Centres were formally launched, marking a significant milestone under the 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah celebrations.
In his address, The Governor underlined that the POSHAN Abhiyaan, launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on 8th March 2018 from Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, reflects the Government of India’s strong commitment to reducing malnutrition, anemia, and stunting across the nation. He called upon Anganwadi workers to see their work not merely as duty, but as a “sacred mission of nation-building,” shaping responsible and empowered citizens from early childhood.
The Administrator reaffirmed that “a healthy, educated, and empowered child today is a strong step towards a developed India tomorrow.” He added that today’s initiatives align with the national vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047, ensuring that no child is left behind, every mother is supported, and every family is empowered with knowledge and care.
The highlight of the ceremony was the official launch of “Poshan Amrit Van – Ek Boond Amrit, Ek Nai Zindagi”, the region’s first breast milk donation programme, developed in collaboration with AIIMS Mohali. This unique and humane initiative will collect breast milk from willing lactating mothers and safely deliver it to orphaned and malnourished infants, ensuring lifesaving nutrition and a healthier start in life.
On the occasion, the Governor also released the Suposhan 3.0 booklet, which builds upon earlier publications Suposhan and Poshan Sutra to provide practical nutrition guidance for mothers and caregivers. He lauded the Chandigarh Administration’s efforts to make Anganwadi Centres modern, responsive, and community-friendly, stating that “investing in early childhood care and maternal health is an investment in the nation’s future.”
To symbolise the nurturing role of mothers, a plantation drive titled “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” was carried out, in which Punjab Governor and Administrator UT Chandigarh Sh Gulab Chand Kataria alongwith his wife Smt. Anita Kataria, planted saplings. A PMMVY (Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana) camp was also organised on-site to register eligible beneficiaries and spread awareness about government schemes for maternal welfare.
.Adding a cultural and practical dimension, renowned Chef Shri Vikas Chawla conducted a live millet-based recipe demonstration to promote healthy eating.
The event was attended by several key dignitaries, including Shri Satya Pal Jain, Additional Solicitor General of India,Smt. Anuradha S. Chagti, Secretary Social Welfare ,Dr. Palika Arora, Director Social Welfare and Shri Hardeep Singh, Area Councillor, Sector 41. Senior officials of the Chandigarh Administration, Anganwadi workers, beneficiaries, and members of civil society were also present in large numbers.