MoS lauds local efforts in child welfare, women empowerment

SHILLONG, April 16: Union Minister of State (MoS) for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur commended local stakeholders and East Khasi Hills district administration for their dedicated efforts in strengthening institutional care, nutrition and the overall empowerment of women and children in Meghalaya.
She made this remark on the second and final day of her visit to Meghalaya.
The Union minister conducted an official visit to the district on Wednesday, to review the implementation of flagship schemes and engage with grassroots stakeholders.
As part of the visit, the minister inspected the One-Stop Centre, Shakti Sadan, in Mawroh. As many as 18 residents, aged between 18 and 50 years, are currently housed at the facility and are participating in vocational training programmes. The MoS interacted with the inmates and encouraged their efforts toward empowerment and rehabilitation.
The minister also visited the Child Care Institution at Mawkasiang, where she engaged with staff, children, and caregivers.
She commended the institution’s work in ensuring child protection and care and emphasised the need for continued psychosocial support and quality education for children in need of care and protection.
At the Anganwadi Centre in Mawsmai, the MoS reviewed services provided under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, including nutrition, preschool education, and health check-ups. She praised the dedication of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers and encouraged sustained community participation in child welfare programs.
During her visit to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Sohra, the minister assessed maternal and child health services, the availability of essential medicines, and the integration of health and nutrition schemes. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access for women and children, especially in remote and tribal areas.
The visit also included an inspection of rural development projects under MGNREGS and PMAY-G. The minister interacted with beneficiaries and reviewed the progress and impact of these initiatives. She also appreciated the inter-departmental coordination contributing to enhanced rural livelihoods and infrastructure.