PM Modi Calls For Greater Focus On Health, Nutrition And Overall Development Of Adolescent Girls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for greater focus on the health, nutrition and overall development of adolescent girls. The Prime Minister made the remarks while chairing the valedictory session of the two-day National Departmental Summit on Women and Child Development in New Delhi yesterday. Mr Modi emphasised the importance of Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) and called for Anganwadi Centres to be developed as centres of community participation. He said families living near Anganwadi Centres should be encouraged to contribute on special occasions by sharing nutritious food, toys and other locally relevant items for children.

Discussing issues related to women’s safety, Mr Modi advised the development of age-appropriate modules for children on women’s safety, dignity and empowerment. He also stressed the importance of preventive measures through coordinated efforts across various departments.

The Prime Minister also emphasised the importance of collaborative decision-making between the Centre and the States. He suggested that States organise Chintan Shivirs at the district level and at the Nagar Palika and Mahanagar Palika levels to facilitate the exchange of experiences, innovations and practical solutions from the field.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister called upon Women and Child Development Departments across the country to take active ownership of the Swachhata Abhiyan. He stressed that good health and nutrition begin with cleanliness and that Anganwadi Centres and surrounding communities could serve as important platforms for promoting this behavioural change.

Mr Modi noted that national initiatives such as Vocal for Local and One District One Product (ODOP) should be promoted to empower women. He added that women’s collectives and community institutions could play an important role in strengthening local products, improving livelihoods and promoting economic empowerment. He also suggested that universities adopt such initiatives and undertake social impact studies.

The summit brought together Ministers and senior officials from States and Union Territories for focused deliberations on nutrition and early childhood care, child protection, women’s safety and empowerment, and strengthening service delivery through greater coordination and convergence.