Rajasthan Upgrades Dilapidated Anganwadis to ‘Smart Play Schools’ via CSR Funds; High-Tech Buildings in 15 Days

Jaipur. The Rajasthan government is set to completely transform the landscape of Anganwadi centers currently operating in dilapidated or rented buildings across the state. Leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, the state plans to upgrade these critical childcare facilities into modern ‘Smart Play Schools’.

To propel this ambitious initiative, the Women and Child Development (WCD) Department organized a high-level CSR partnership workshop on Friday, June 19, 2026, at the Rajasthan International Center in Jaipur. The event was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari as the chief guest and Minister of State for WCD, Dr. Manju Baghmar.

The primary objective of the workshop was to mobilize corporate support under ‘Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0’. The government aims to collaborate closely with private entities to strengthen physical infrastructure, ensuring better pre-school education and health services for children from underprivileged backgrounds.

LGSF Technology: Earthquake-Resistant Buildings in 15 to 21 Days

Highlighting the ground reality, ICDS Director Vasudev Malavat shared concerning statistics with the attendees. Out of the 63,000 Anganwadi centers in Rajasthan, 3,284 are operating in severely damaged or dilapidated structures, while another 11,488 are running in rented or temporary premises.

To provide a permanent and rapid solution, the state will utilize Light Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF) technology and pre-fabricated structures. This modern engineering approach allows for the construction of solar-powered, earthquake-resistant ‘container Anganwadi buildings’ within just 15 to 21 days, significantly reducing traditional construction turnaround times.

‘Smart Play Schools’ the Foundation of a Healthy Rajasthan: Diya Kumari

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari stated that realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ requires the immediate and focused empowerment of children from poor families. She emphasized that a strong nation can only be built with robust human resources, which starts with early childhood care.

Citing the successful CSR models implemented in Gujarat, she urged corporate partners to prioritize the construction of these modern pre-fabricated buildings in urban and semi-urban industrial areas. “Our primary goal is to upgrade dilapidated and rented Anganwadi centers into ‘Smart Play Schools’. These centers will serve as the foundation of a healthy and empowered Rajasthan,” she remarked.

Transparency via ‘Pankhuri Portal’ and Corporate Collaboration

To ensure complete transparency in the initiative, detailed discussions were held regarding the ‘Pankhuri Portal’, launched by the Government of India on January 8, 2026. This integrated digital platform facilitates transparent, non-cash CSR contributions toward health, education, and nutrition.

Minister of State Dr. Manju Baghmar appealed to the corporate sector to contribute to the bright future of the nation by helping provide essential amenities like furniture, toys, uniforms, teaching materials, and by funding the construction of ‘Poshan Vatikas’ (nutrition gardens) for the children.

The open-house discussion saw active participation from senior WCD officials alongside representatives from major corporate houses, PSUs, and NGOs. Leaders from Vedanta, Adani Group, Tata Steel, Wonder Group, Axis Bank, SBI, ICICI Bank, Union Bank of India, Canara Bank, Hindustan Zinc, HP, Dell, and NPCIL shared their case studies and insights on effective CSR implementation.

Conclusion

This collaborative effort between the Rajasthan government and the corporate sector marks a significant milestone in creating a safe, modern, and engaging educational environment for the state’s children. The effective and transparent utilization of CSR funds will not only overhaul the physical infrastructure but also provide a strong foundation for the holistic development of future generations.