Mangaluru: In a unique initiative, Anganwadi centres across Dakshina Kannada district have begun forming alumni associations, much like schools and colleges, to improve facilities through a community-driven approach. Spearheaded by the Department of Women and Child Welfare, the project aims to reconnect individuals with the centres where their early education began.
Each Anganwadi now has support not only from the traditional Balavikasa Samitis—which include parents—and local self-help groups, but also from newly formed alumni networks. These groups will take an active role in identifying issues, planning solutions, and implementing development programmes tailored to the needs of the centres.
According to Usman A, Deputy Director of the Women and Child Welfare Department, 150 Anganwadi alumni forums have already been established in the district. “Former Anganwadi students are returning to the roots of their learning, working together to ensure that no centre is left lacking in basic infrastructure,” he said, adding that the initiative has received enthusiastic participation.
Of the 2,131 Anganwadi centres in the district, 1,927 have buildings, while over 50 still operate in rented spaces. Many function within government schools and community centres. The issue of permanent buildings for these centres was recently discussed at a KDP meeting chaired by District Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao. The minister instructed Deputy Commissioner Darshan MV to initiate land identification for centres operating in rented facilities.