Bengaluru: Mines and Geology Minister Vinay Kulkarni has inaugurated Karnataka’s first ‘Nand Ghar’ (modern anganwadi)– a Vedanta Project at Maradagi village, Dharwad in the presence of other dignitaries Ms. Drakshayani Patil, President Gram Panchayat, Maradagi Village; Mr. B. S. Kaladagi, Deputy director of Women and Child Development, Dharwad; Mr. Channavasappa Matti, Member of Zilla Panchayat, Hubbali; Mr. Mallana Gouda Bhavi Katti- President of Taluk Panchayat, Dharwad; Ms. Shivaleela Kulkarni, President of Vaishudepu Foundation along with Mr. Krishna Reddy, Head- Iron Ore Karnataka, Vedanta Sesa Goa and various Vedanta members.
On this occasion, Vinay Kulkarni said, “I commend Vedanta for this noble initiative. It has indeed exceeded the expectations in terms of the infrastructure. I can see the smiles on the parents’ faces which is evident of their appreciation for having being bestowed with such a modern facility for their children. The Nand Ghar is in sync with the Government’s vision of eradication of malnutrition, providing education and skill development. I look forward to Vedanta’s support for similar projects in future.”
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Krishna Reddy, Head- Iron Ore Karnataka, Vedanta Sesa Goa said, “It is gratifying for us to dedicate the first Nand Ghar to the State of Karnataka. This initiative testifies our Chairman’s vision to build a stronger future for our children. We are thankful to the unwavering support of the state Govt. of Karnataka and the Ministry of Women and Child Welfare for giving Vedanta an opportunity to build this abode for children, thereby bringing to life the Prime Minister’s ambition of a resurgent India.” He added, “This project will ensure that more and more parts of rural India get the opportunity to become an integral part of the mainstream economy and ride this spirit of new found confidence.”
About Nand Ghar: Vedanta’s ‘Nand Ghar’ initiative adds to the existing Anganwadi model of the Ministry’s ‘Integrated Women and Child Development Scheme’ and this center will act as a focal area for immunization, gender sensitization and maternal care. It also aims to enhance the learning environment through an e-learning module and skill enhancement program for women. The ‘Nand Ghar’ centers are proposed to be run as a shared space in which 50% of the time will be devoted to children’s education and the remaining half will support women’s skill development. ‘Building as a Learning Aid’ a concept piloted by UNICEF, which will feature learning concepts embedded within the structure, will attempt to increase attendance of children. In addition, the Centre will be equipped with solar panels, TV, toilets and water supply.
