Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed the need to strengthen healthcare, nutrition and overall development programmes for adolescent girls. He shared these views while addressing the concluding session of a two day National Departmental Summit on Women and Child Development in New Delhi yesterday.
The Prime Minister highlighted the role of public participation in improving services for women and children. He suggested that Anganwadi Centres should become active spaces for community involvement. Families living nearby could be encouraged to contribute nutritious food, toys and other useful items for children during special occasions.
On women’s safety, Modi called for educational programmes suited to different age groups to help children understand women’s safety, dignity and empowerment. He also underlined the need for preventive action through better coordination among government departments.
The Prime Minister emphasised stronger cooperation between the Central and State governments. He proposed that States hold Chintan Shivirs at district levels and across Nagar Palika and Mahanagar Palika areas. These meetings could help officials share field experiences, innovative practices and practical solutions to common challenges.
Modi also urged Women and Child Development Departments across the country to take an active role in the Swachhata Abhiyan. He said cleanliness is closely connected with good health and nutrition, adding that Anganwadi Centres and nearby communities could help encourage lasting changes in daily habits.
He further called for greater promotion of initiatives such as Vocal for Local and One District One Product to support women's economic development. According to him, women’s groups and community organisations can help strengthen local products, create better livelihood opportunities and improve financial independence. He also suggested that universities participate in these initiatives and assess their social impact.
The summit brought together Ministers and senior officials from States and Union Territories to discuss nutrition, early childhood care, child protection, women’s safety and empowerment. Participants also deliberated on improving public service delivery through stronger coordination and cooperation among departments.