PASIGHAT, SEP 25:

The Department of Women and Child Development (WCD), East Siang, organised the inaugural session of “Aangan Ka Utsav” as part of Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2026, along with a stakeholder coordination meeting under Mission Vatsalya and Mission Shakti at Pasighat on Friday.

East Siang Deputy Commissioner Sonalika Jiwani attended the programme as the chief guest, while Rani ZPM Taying Tapak was the guest of honour and Pasighat Municipal Council Chief Councillor Tagom Padung was the special guest. Superintendent of Police Pankaj Lamba and other dignitaries were also present.

Deputy Director (ICDS)-cum-District Child Protection Officer M.T. Padung, in her welcome address, highlighted the objectives of Aangan Ka Utsav in promoting child health and nutrition. She stressed the need to bridge inter-departmental coordination gaps for effective implementation of welfare initiatives under Mission Vatsalya and Mission Shakti and proposed creation of a dedicated multi-departmental WhatsApp group for key stakeholders.

The Superintendent of Police highlighted the efforts of the Police Department, including the Special Juvenile Police Unit and Women Police Station, in ensuring the safety and security of women and children. He assured 24×7 police support and cooperation.

Heads and representatives of various departments, including Health, School Education, Labour, SEED CCI, One Stop Centre and District Child Protection Unit, shared inputs and actionable suggestions. The participating departments pledged to strengthen inter-agency coordination.

Addressing the gathering, DC Sonalika Jiwani commended the WCD Department for bringing key stakeholders onto a common platform. She urged line departments to work in coordination, stating that joint efforts were essential to addressing field-level challenges and delivering effective services in the best interest of children.

The programme was anchored by Ruksin Child Development Project Officer and concluded with a vote of thanks by the headquarters CDPO. (DIPR)