Anganwadi reforms in Thrissur by IAS Arjun Pandian
Context
IAS officer Arjun Pandian, District Collector of Thrissur (Kerala), revamped anganwadis, drawing inspiration from his mother, who has worked as an anganwadi worker for 26 years.
Key Initiatives
• Converted anganwadis into community centres with improved infrastructure.
• Set up 15 sub-libraries; 15 more being added under the Va Vayikkam (Come, Let Us Read) programme.
• Improved buildings for 20 anganwadis; formalities completed for 50 more.
• Launched child-centric and community-oriented programmes under Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).
• Mobilised CSR funds for books and infrastructure upgrades.
• Regular review meetings held with stakeholders to monitor progress.
• Monthly engagement with schoolchildren to track issues and provide support.
