“Nurturing the Future of Viksit Bharat”: PM Modi Calls for Local Synergy in WCD Initiatives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the valedictory session of the two-day National Departmental Summit on Women and Child Development at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, urging a transformative shift toward community-driven governance.Emphasising that Anganwadi Centres should not function as isolated institutions, PM Modi called for making them vibrant hubs of local community participation.He suggested that universities adopt nearby Anganwadis to conduct social-impact studies while involving NSS, NCC, and medical students. He also advocated for dedicated Chintan Shivirs at district and civic levels, including specialised exchanges for Anganwadi workers.On women’s safety, the Prime Minister highlighted the need for preventive action through inter-departmental convergence and suggested developing age-appropriate educational modules on dignity and empowerment for children.Furthermore, he urged special focus on adolescent health and nutrition, linking cleanliness through Swachhata Abhiyan directly to public health outcomes.Highlighting movements like Vocal for Local and One District One Product (ODOP), PM Modi noted that empowering women’s collectives will drive economic strength. He concluded that children nurtured at Anganwadis today will build the foundations of a Viksit Bharat.