Aizawl, April 20, 2026: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Special Monitor Dr. Poonam Malakondaiah arrived in Aizawl today for a three-day visit to review the implementation of early childhood education and related welfare programmes in Mizoram. She was received by officials from the Women & Child Development Department and the School Education Department.
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| NHRC Special Monitor Dr. Poonam Malakondaiah receives a welcome gift from Mizoram officials during a meeting with Women & Child Development and School Education departments in Aizawl.(Image: DIPR Mizoram) |
During her visit, Dr. Malakondaiah will closely examine the functioning of Anganwadi Centres and elementary schools, focusing on the implementation of early childhood education initiatives across the state.
As part of her itinerary, the NHRC Special Monitor will visit Saitual on April 21 and Reiek on April 22, where she will inspect several Anganwadi Centres and Primary/Middle Schools. The inspections will assess the delivery of foundational learning programmes, cleanliness and maintenance of school infrastructure, the implementation of the Midday Meal Scheme, as well as the nutritional and health status of children.
Earlier in the day, a meeting was held with officials of the Women & Child Development and School Education departments under the leadership of Pi Lalzarmawii, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, and Pi Zonunthari, Joint Secretary and Nodal Officer for Social Welfare, Women & Child Development. During the meeting, both departments delivered presentations outlining the current status of early childhood education and child welfare initiatives in Mizoram.
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Officials noted that while Mizoram has made notable progress in early childhood education, there remain several areas that require further improvement. The meeting also discussed future strategies to strengthen programme implementation and enhance child development outcomes.
Dr. Poonam Malakondaiah, a retired Andhra Pradesh cadre IAS officer, retired from service on July 30, 2024 and joined the NHRC as a Special Monitor in January 2026. Her visit is aimed at evaluating the progress of child development and education schemes and identifying areas that require attention.
