Mentor’s Comment

India’s vision of Viksit Bharat depends on nurturing its youngest citizens. By placing Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) at the core of policy, Anganwadi centres are being reimagined as the first classrooms, not just nutrition hubs. This editorial highlights the significance of play-based learning, the reforms underway, and their impact on social, economic, and human capital development.

Introduction

Nation-building begins where learning begins, in Anganwadis and playschools where children first explore and imagine. Since 85% of brain development occurs before six, India has prioritised structured, play-based learning. Initiatives like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi, Aadharshila curriculum, and Navchetna framework mark a decisive shift: education is no longer seen as starting at school, but from birth itself.

Why in the News?

Play-based learning has become a national policy priority under the present government. Anganwadi workers are being trained in ECCE, and centres are evolving into early learning hubs. This marks a historic policy turn, shifting focus from higher education to the earliest years of life, where investments yield the highest returns. Evidence shows ECCE can raise IQ levels by up to 19 points and deliver 13–18% returns (Heckman), making it one of the most impactful reforms in recent times.

Reimagining Anganwadis as Learning Hubs

1. Anganwadis as First Schools: Transition from nutrition centres to vibrant learning hubs.
2. Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi: A flagship initiative introducing structured ECCE and play-based learning.
3. Training of Workers: First-ever systematic training of Anganwadi workers in ECCE methods.
4. Budgetary Support: Enhanced allocations for teaching-learning materials.
5. Community Trust: Parents now view Anganwadis as the foundation of their child’s education.

Scientific Evidence Supporting ECCE

1. Brain Development: NEP 2020 highlights 85% of brain growth occurs before six years.
2. CMC Vellore Study: Children exposed to 18–24 months of ECCE gained up to 19 IQ points by age five, and 5–9 points by age nine.
3. Global Research: Nobel Laureate James Heckman shows 13–18% returns on early childhood investments.

Ensuring Holistic Development in Early Childhood

1. Aadharshila Curriculum: National ECCE framework for children aged 3–6 years.
2. 5+1 Weekly Plan: Balance of free play, structured learning, creativity, motor skills, social interaction, and values.
3. Focus Beyond Cognitive Skills: Emotional, social, and physical development equally emphasised.
4. Outdoor Play & Emotional Bonds: Ensuring resilience, socialisation, and value-building.

Birth-to-Three: The Neglected but Crucial Stage

1. Navchetna Framework: National framework for Early Childhood Stimulation.
2. Parental Involvement: Empowering caregivers with play-based activities at home.
3. Equity Focus: State as equaliser for low-income families lacking resources.

Play-Based Learning as a Tool for Nation-Building

1. Human Capital Formation: Better prepared children ensure stronger productivity.
2. Social Inclusion: ECCE bridges gaps between privileged and underprivileged children.
3. Nation’s Future: Early learning reduces dropout rates and improves long-term educational outcomes.

Conclusion

If India is to realise its vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, it must begin where life begins. By making play a policy, and not merely leisure, India is reshaping its future workforce and citizens. Anganwadis as learning hubs, structured ECCE, and parental engagement are steps that will yield dividends not just in GDP growth, but in nurturing empathetic, curious, and resilient human beings. Play is no longer child’s play, it is nation-building.

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