Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda expresses happiness as children resume attendance at Nuagaon Anganwadi

BJP National Vice-President and Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda on Monday expressed happiness after children resumed attending the Anganwadi centre at Nuagaon in Rajnagar, Kendrapara.

The development comes a day after Panda visited the village and interacted with residents in an effort to restore normal functioning at the centre. Children were seen sitting together and having a meal at the Anganwadi centre, marking a return to regular activities.

MP Visits Village And Shares Community Meal

On Sunday, Baijayant Panda visited Nuagaon under Ghadiamal Gram Panchayat. He reached the Nuagaon Anganwadi centre, held discussions with villagers and reviewed the facilities. He also sat with local leaders and community members and shared a meal at the centre. The Anganwadi helper herself served the food during the community meal.

Reacting to the resumption of activities, Panda shared on X, “Delighted at children having a nutritious meal today at the Nuagaon Anganwadi, which I had reviewed yesterday and had a wonderful lunch along with local leaders and villagers. It was heartening to see the community coming together to ensure great beginnings for their children.”

In an earlier post, he wrote, “Focused on strengthening grassroots welfare delivery, visited the Anganwadi Centre in Nuagaon, Rajnagar. Reviewed the facilities and spent time interacting with the dedicated staff, shared a meal with local leaders and community members, and gained valuable firsthand insights into their tireless efforts and the heart of community participation. Proud to support our Anganwadi workers in ensuring every child gets the best start!”

Case Background

The Anganwadi centre had remained closed for 86 days after a Dalit woman was appointed as a helper, with parents reportedly refusing to send their children following the appointment of the Anganwadi helper from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community. 

Earlier, members of the Child Protection Commission, along with concerned administrative officials, had visited the centre on February 14 and counselled villagers, following which residents pledged to send their children back. 

Also Read: Children resume attendance at Nuagaon Anganwadi centre after three-month halt

While several villagers later assured cooperation after administrative intervention, some parents denied caste prejudice and claimed that the absence of a proper Anganwadi building was the reason for not sending their children to the centre.