New Delhi, April 2: The Anil Agarwal Foundation’s (AAF) flagship initiative, Nand Ghar, has successfully established 8,044 modernized Anganwadis across 15 Indian states, reinforcing Vedanta’s commitment to holistic rural development. The initiative continues to drive early childhood education, nutrition, healthcare, and skill development for women.

Nand Ghars are modern Anganwadis equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including smart education tools, interactive e-learning modules, BaLA designs, and smart TVs, creating an engaging learning experience for children aged 3-6 years. These centers also ensure access to electricity, safe drinking water, and hygienic sanitation facilities, fostering a secure and nurturing environment. Beyond education, Nand Ghar combats malnutrition by providing fortified meals for children and nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers, while also offering healthcare services such as immunization drives and routine check-ups.

Key Highlights from 2024-25:

• ‘Khaana Khaaya Kya?’ Campaign – Featuring actor Manoj Bajpayee, this initiative raised awareness about child nutrition, reinforcing that no child should go to bed hungry.

• Nutritional Support Expansion – A two-phase distribution of protein-rich millet shakes benefitted children across six states.

• First-Ever Nand Ghar in Maharashtra – With 25 centers launched in Thane, ensuring quality early childhood education and women’s empowerment initiatives.

• Scaling in Rajasthan – AAF reaffirmed its commitment to developing 25,000 Nand Ghars in Rajasthan over the next two years, amplifying its impact on rural communities.

Currently, Nand Ghar positively impacts over 3 lakh children and 2 lakh women, aligning with the Government of India’s vision for women and child development. The initiative strengthens national efforts, contributing to a comprehensive childcare ecosystem through educational resources, nutritional programs, and community health services.

Leadership Perspectives

Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd. and Non-Executive Director of Vedanta Ltd., stated:

“The journey of building 8,000 Nand Ghars reflects our deep commitment to transforming grassroots communities. These centers are not just reimagined Anganwadis but spaces of opportunity where children learn and thrive, and women gain the skills to lead empowered lives.”

Shashi Arora, CEO of Nand Ghar, added:

“At Nand Ghar, we measure impact not just in numbers but in the lives we transform. By integrating smart learning, digital tools, and sustainable nutrition programs, we are redefining the Anganwadi ecosystemin India. Our initiatives, such as Khaana Khaaya Kya?, millet-based nutrition drives, and digital smart learning modules, further reinforce our commitment to early childhood education and women’s empowerment.”

Expanding Reach & Future Goals

Nand Ghar continues to expand its footprint across Rajasthan, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, focusing on healthcare, nutrition, and skill-building programs. With WCD’s Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Department celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, Nand Ghar remains committed to setting new benchmarks in early childhood care and women’s empowerment.

This milestone reaffirms Nand Ghar’s mission of uplifting rural communities, ensuring children and women have access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition for a brighter future.