Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government launched ‘Aarohan’, a new programme aimed at enhancing early childhood education and ensuring seamless development for young children across the state, on the auspicious occasion of Maha Bishuba Sankranti and the Odia New Year.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the initiative at the ICWS campus in Bhubaneswar. In a warm cultural gesture, she applied tikka on the foreheads of the attending children, symbolising a fresh beginning, and presented them with the special ‘Aarohan’ kit along with blessings and encouragement as they prepare for the next phase of their learning journey.
The programme, introduced by the Department of Women and Child Development, carries the inspiring tagline “Ujwala Bhabisyat Pain Pade Agaku” (Step Forward for a Bright Future), reflecting its goal of building a stronger foundation for every child in the state. The primary focus of ‘Aarohan’ is to reinforce early childhood education and facilitate a smooth transition for children completing pre-primary learning at Anganwadi centres into Bal Vatika-3.
Addressing the children and parents present at the event, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasised that the first six years of a child’s life are the most crucial for brain development. She noted that the launch coincides with Poshan Pakhya-2026, during which the government is giving special priority to early childhood care and development. She stressed that the initiative is a shared responsibility, calling for active involvement from parents and society alongside government efforts to secure a brighter future for the children.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development, Mrunalini Darswal, highlighted the importance of dedicated efforts from Anganwadi workers and officials to strengthen the centres and promote holistic child development.
