Where learning has no roof! 57 Anganwadi centres in Ganjam operate without own buildings

The lack of proper buildings in Anganwadi centres across Belaguntha block in Ganjam district is putting children’s future in jeopardy. 

For over 15 years, several centres have been functioning in unsafe and makeshift spaces, forcing children to study in staff members’ homes, verandas, or half-constructed rooms.

In Tanrada Panchayat alone, six Anganwadi centres have no own buildings. The absence of proper infrastructure is affecting not only teaching but also the storage of cooked food, rice, eggs, learning materials, and play equipment, leaving children in hazardous and unhygienic conditions.

The problem is widespread, with 57 centres under seven sectors, including Badaborasing, Banka, Dhumuchhai, Gangpur, and Gobara, still operating without proper facilities. Many centres remain half-built despite years-old government orders and allocated funds, with some locations still lacking electricity.

"As the building was in an unsafe condition, the CDPO shifted us to Sector 1 centre and asked us to adjust there temporarily. We have been managing like this for the past four to five years," said Sushanti Mishra, an Anganwadi worker.

“This is a long-pending problem that is yet to be addressed. It could have a negative impact on the children’s development,” said Anil Kumar Pathi, sarpanch’s representative, Tanrada.

Anganwadi workers and helpers struggle daily to provide basic care and education, raising serious concerns about the quality of early childhood development in the region.

Local residents warn that continued neglect could have long-term consequences on children’s health, learning, and overall growth. 

While the Sub-Collector of Bhanjanagar has assured that solutions are underway, urgent action is needed to prevent further compromise of young children’s education and safety.

Also Read: Pitabas Panda murder case: Family breaks down during recreation; son Saurabh flees the scene in grief

“The construction work for 57 new buildings is already underway. I have instructed the BDOs to complete the work at the earliest,” said Umashankar Behera, Bhanjanagar sub collector.