In a concerted effort to bolster Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) initiatives, Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of School Education & Literacy at the Ministry of Education, chaired a crucial meeting at the Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. The gathering aimed at advancing the broader objectives outlined under the National Curriculum Framework-Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) to ensure a seamless transition and quality ECCE.

Representatives from the Ministry of Women & Child Development (MoWCD), states, and autonomous bodies of the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSE&L) were present at the meeting.

Shri Sanjay Kumar emphasized the pivotal role of stakeholders in fostering quality ECCE and commended the proactive initiatives undertaken by MoWCD and various states/UTs in this regard.

Key recommendations emerged during the meeting, including the establishment of three Balvatikas for 3 to 6-year-olds as part of pre-primary education in all CBSE and Kendriya Vidyalayas with Class 1. Additionally, co-locating Anganwadis with primary schools in villages was proposed to facilitate a seamless transition to Grade 1.

The utilization of Jaadui Pitara, a learning tool, at government schools with pre-primary classes was suggested for a comprehensive learning experience aligned with NCF-FS goals. Collaboration between the Ministry of Education (MoE) and MoWCD to link Poshan Tracker and UDISE+ data to track pre-primary to Class-1 transitions was also underscored.

Discussions further centered on standardizing branding for programs like NIPUN Bharat, Jaadui Pitara, and Vidya Pravesh across states for enhanced visibility and recognition. The meeting also emphasized the importance of proper training for preschool teachers and Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) to ensure effective ECCE implementation.

The deliberations concluded with a strong commitment to advancing ECCE efforts, underscoring the collective resolve to prioritize early childhood education for the holistic development of children nationwide.