IMPHAL, August 16, 2025: The Social Welfare Department, Government of Manipur has launched a comprehensive three-day training programme for Anganwadi Workers across the state under the Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi initiative, marking a major step towards strengthening Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and improving nutrition and learning outcomes for young children.
According to the department, the training programme is being implemented across all 43 Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) projects in Manipur. By the end of August 2025, a total of 6,684 Anganwadi Workers are expected to receive specialised training through sessions conducted by State Level Master Trainers.
Officials said the initiative is designed to equip Anganwadi Workers with updated knowledge and practical skills that will enable them to provide quality early childhood education while strengthening nutrition, health, and developmental support for children between the ages of three and six years.
The training curriculum covers a wide range of subjects essential for holistic child development. Participants are receiving instruction on developmental milestones and learning domains for children aged three to six years, along with age-appropriate teaching methods based on play-based learning principles. The programme also introduces structured weekly activity calendars aimed at creating engaging and child-friendly learning environments in Anganwadi Centres.
In addition to educational components, the training focuses on nutrition and health. Sessions include guidance on identifying and managing malnutrition, monitoring children's growth, promoting balanced nutrition, and maintaining proper health records. Anganwadi Workers are also being trained in hygiene practices, health awareness, and preventive healthcare measures to ensure the overall well-being of children under their care.
Recognising the important role of families and communities in early childhood development, the programme includes modules on parental engagement and community mobilisation. Participants are being encouraged to work closely with parents and local communities to create supportive environments for children's learning and healthy development. The curriculum also covers methods for assessing learning outcomes to help Anganwadi Workers monitor children's progress more effectively.
Officials said the Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi initiative seeks to transform Anganwadi Centres into integrated hubs for both nutrition and early education. By combining quality preschool education with improved nutrition and healthcare services, the programme aims to lay a strong foundation for children's physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development.
A spokesperson for the Social Welfare Department said the training would significantly improve the quality of ECCE services across the state by empowering Anganwadi Workers with modern teaching techniques, child-centred learning approaches, and updated knowledge on nutrition and health management.
The department expressed confidence that the initiative would strengthen grassroots interventions in education, nutrition, and child welfare while contributing to Manipur's long-term human development goals. Officials added that investing in the capacity-building of Anganwadi Workers is essential to ensuring that every child receives the care, nutrition, and early learning opportunities needed for a healthy and productive future.
