New Delhi: The Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF) has marked a significant achievement with its flagship initiative, Nand Ghar, surpassing 8,000 modernized Anganwadi centers across 15 states. This expansion is part of the foundation’s broader commitment to enhancing rural development in India, touching the lives of over 3 lakh children and 2 lakh women through comprehensive services such as early childhood education, healthcare, nutrition, and skill development.
Nand Ghars are upgraded Anganwadis, designed to provide state-of-the-art facilities for both children and women. The centers are equipped with modern infrastructure, smart learning tools, e-learning modules, child-friendly furniture, and access to essential services like safe drinking water and hygienic sanitation. These centers aim to foster a secure environment where children aged 3-6 years can thrive, and women can benefit from empowerment initiatives such as skill-building programs in areas like handicrafts, food processing, and retail.
One of the key aspects of Nand Ghar is its effort to combat malnutrition. The program has implemented various initiatives, including fortified meals for children and nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers. Integrated healthcare services, such as immunization drives and routine check-ups, also play a crucial role in strengthening community health.
In addition to these achievements, last year Nand Ghar launched a protein-rich millet shake distribution drive across six states to combat malnutrition. The millet shakes, made from a blend of ragi, bajra, foxtail, and kodu millets, are packed with 23 essential vitamins and minerals and are in line with the government’s vision to promote millet consumption for better nutrition.
In March 2025, the Foundation inaugurated its first Nand Ghars in Maharashtra, launching 25 new centers in Thane. Looking ahead, AAF plans to establish an additional 20,000 Nand Ghars across Rajasthan in the next two years, significantly expanding the program’s reach and impact.
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision for women and child development, complementing the efforts of the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD). With around 14 lakh Anganwadi centers serving over 7 crore children across the country, Nand Ghar’s innovative model is enhancing the existing ecosystem and helping amplify the government’s efforts in supporting rural communities.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd. and non-Executive Director of Vedanta Ltd., expressed her pride in Nand Ghar’s success, stating, “The journey of building 8,000 Nand Ghars reflects our deep commitment to transforming lives at the grassroots level. These centers are not just upgraded Anganwadis; they are spaces where children can learn and grow, and women can gain the tools to lead empowered lives. It is incredible to witness how Nand Ghar is evolving into a nationwide movement, creating meaningful change.”
Shashi Arora, CEO of Nand Ghar, also highlighted the program’s impact, emphasizing the importance of integrating digital learning, sustainable nutrition, and women’s empowerment into the Anganwadi ecosystem. “At Nand Ghar, we are committed to holistic community development,” Arora said. “Our efforts are not just about numbers but about transforming lives and creating lasting change.”
Ravish Sharma, Deputy CEO & WTD of ESL Steel Limited, expressed his pride in Nand Ghar’s progress, especially the establishment of 150 centers in Jharkhand. “These rising numbers reflect powerful stories of transformation, and we are honored to support this meaningful initiative,” he said.
Beneficiaries like Anjali Badyakar from Chandaha shared their experiences of the positive changes brought by Nand Ghar. “The Nand Ghar has brought real change to our lives. My children now play and learn in a safe, clean place, and I’ve received guidance on my health during pregnancy and my child’s nutrition,” she said.
With the Ministry of Women and Child Development celebrating 50 years of its Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in 2025, Nand Ghar is reaffirming its role in shaping the future of rural India. The program continues to set benchmarks in early childhood care and women’s empowerment, with plans to further extend its reach.
The Anil Agarwal Foundation, the parent entity behind the initiative, remains committed to uplifting rural communities through sustainable and inclusive growth. With Nand Ghar’s continued success, the foundation is helping transform lives and build a brighter, healthier future for India’s women and children.
