Bhubaneswar: On the auspicious occasion of ‘Maha Bishuba Sankranti’ and the Odia New Year, Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida launched the ‘Aarohan’ programme today at the ICWS campus in Bhubaneswar. 

The Deputy Chief Minister applied tikka to the children as a symbol of a new beginning, sending off the little buds to the next step of their lives with the Arohan kit, blessings and encouragement. Reflecting the spirit of the initiative, the programme carries the tagline “Ujwala Bhabisyat Pain Pade Agaku”, underscoring a collective step forward towards a brighter future for every child. The initiative has been launched by the Department of Women and Child Development.

The primary objective of this ambitious initiative is to strengthen the foundation of early childhood education across the state and ensure a smooth transition of children from Anganwadi centres to Bal Vatika-3 after completing their pre-primary learning.

Addressing the children and parents present at the event, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasised the first six years of a child’s life are the most crucial for brain development. She highlighted, on the occasion of Poshan Pakhya- 2026, the government is prioritising early childhood development. Stressing the role of family and society, she stated this initiative is not solely the responsibility of the government, but that active participation and support from parents are essential to shape a bright future for children.

At the programme, the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development, Mrunalini Darswal, emphasised the need for active cooperation from all Anganwadi workers and officials to further strengthen Anganwadi centres and accelerate the holistic development of children.

The programme was also attended by senior government officials of the department and partner organizations.

Additionally, Anganwadi workers at the grassroots level and parents of children actively participated in the event.