Madhya Pradesh launches hot cooked meals via central kitchens in urban Anganwadis from January 2026, plus workbooks and development cards to boost preschool education. CM Mohan Yadav's directives aim to enhance nutrition, learning, and zero dropouts under Ladli Lakshmi Yojana for 34 lakh girls.
Initiative Launch
Bhopal: Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reviewed Women & Child Development Department operations, directing urban Anganwadis to serve hot cooked meals through centralized kitchens starting January 2026. This upgrades from take-home rations, ensuring fresh nutrition amid Vision 2047 preschool push. Workbooks and development cards will track progress, aligning with mega infrastructure for 9,000 new centers.
Key Highlights
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Hot Meals Rollout: Centralized kitchens for urban kids (3-6 yrs); improves attendance, nutrition over packets.
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Preschool Boost: Workbooks for activities; development cards monitor cognitive, motor skills per national ECCE norms.
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Ladli Lakshmi Focus: Scholarships for 34 lakh girls; strict no-dropout monitoring, immediate re-enrollment.
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Broader Empowerment: Gender awareness hubs, self-defense, driving licenses under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao.
Sources: Reuters (RTRS), Free Press Journal, MP Info