Vengappally; The anganwadis in Vengappally panchayat are undergoing a major transformation, with 11 out of the 14 centres already upgraded into smart anganwadis. Works are currently underway to modernise the remaining three.

These smart anganwadis are designed to support early childhood learning through improved infrastructure and modern amenities. Each centre features a learning room, resting area, kitchen, storeroom, indoor and outdoor play areas, a hall and a garden.

The panchayat has three anganwadis with more than 15 children each, six with more than 10 children, and the remaining five with over five children each. According to E K Renuka, president of the local body, the initiative is aimed at enhancing both the physical and mental well-being of children by upgrading facilities and learning environments.

In addition to the smart anganwadi project, the local Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) unit is launching a nutrition initiative titled ‘Poshan Vengappally’. The programme aims to identify children suffering from acute malnutrition and provide them with the necessary nutritional support. So far, seven children have been identified as undernourished, six of whom belong to Scheduled Tribe communities.

The project is being jointly implemented by the panchayat and ICDS with the goal of nurturing a healthy younger generation.