The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) is one of the world’s largest programmes supporting maternal and child health care. In Paradeep Block, Jagatsinghpur district, Odisha, rapid industrialisation has created a stark contrast—economic growth coexists with rural poverty and poor maternal and child health indicators.

To address these pressing challenges, Humana People to People India, in partnership with ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AM/NS) India, launched the Project Strengthening of Anganwadi Centres for a Healthy and Educated Community in June 2024.

The Project aimed to revitalise the role of Anganwadi Centres as community hubs for health, nutrition, and early childhood education, ensuring that children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers get the foundational support they need. Since its  inception the Project has yielded tremendous outcomes. They include: 

• 25 Anganwadi Centres upgraded with child-friendly infrastructure
• 225 Anganwadi & ASHA workers trained
• 726 children enrolled (0–6 years)
•  31 Nutritional Gardens established
• 25 clean water units & hand-washing systems installed
• 25 solar backups ensuring uninterrupted services
• 50+Women’s Health Groups & Adolescent Girls groups formed
• 64 Health & Immunisation Camps provided support
• 25,000 people reached through awareness campaigns

By improving infrastructure, capacity building and engaging local communities, the Project has strengthened the foundation for a healthier, more educated future generation.