How an NGO’s initiative is helping parents in T.N. villages support children’s early development
The Hindu
An NGO initiative in Tamil Nadu empowers parents to enhance children's early development through education and community support.
V. Menaka, a 29-year-old mother, wasn’t entirely aware that her two-year-old son was not as active as other children his age. “He used to keep to himself, wasn’t very playful, and always stayed close to me. But I thought that was normal,” she said. However, her perspective changed when workers from the Bala Mandir Research and Resource Centre’s (BMRRC) Early Childhood Care and Development and Education (ECCDE) programme visited her.
“The staff briefed me about brain development and how crucial the early years are for a child to mingle and play with others. They told me there are various ways to help a child grow and learn, and that both my role as a parent and the role of the community are very important. They also explained the importance of enrolling my child in the anganwadi,” she said.
Ms. Menaka, a resident of Lachivakkam in Tiruvallur district, said that months later she witnessed her son playing with other children at the anganwadi, which made her very happy. The child, who is now six years old, has been enrolled in Class 1 at a private school and is thriving. “He now makes friends so easily and is eager to go to school,” she added.
Ms. Menaka’s sentiments were echoed by other parents who have benefited from the research centre’s ECCDE programme. Initiated in 2014 in five villages in Gummidipoondi, with assistance from Michelin Tyres, the programme sought to raise awareness among parents about child and brain development.
“At the outset, anganwadis existed primarily as centres for nutrition for pregnant and lactating mothers. Later, the concept of early childhood care and development was introduced. Rural residents were initially hesitant to send their children there,” said Bindu R., director, BMRRC.
The ECCDE programme discusses brain development, noting that 25% of it occurs at birth and the remaining development takes place during the first six years of a child’s life. “We need to make use of this small window for the child’s development,” she added.
In a conversation with Varghese K. George, Resident Editor of The Hindu, Delhi, at The Hindu Lit Fest 2026, author Ghazala Wahab spoke about her book, ‘The Hindu Heartland: A Study’. It examines how the Hindi heartland has come to be viewed today - as politically important, but socially regressive.
Founded by educator Shilpa Kiranveer, Kathatitam in Hyderabad is a new children's library and cultural space
Delhi's Parsi community celebrates a century of heritage, faith, and philanthropy, honoring its rich history and enduring legacy.
Karnataka establishes a Gig Workers’ Welfare Board to implement welfare measures and support gig workers through a dedicated body.
Uttar Pradesh suspends Bareilly city magistrate Alankar Agnihotri for indiscipline and orders an inquiry following his resignation.
On the eve of India’s 77th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu reflected on the country’s democratic journey, highlighting self-reliance, national achievements, and India’s role as a messenger of peace and stability. She paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the national song Vande Mataram, praised Operation Sindoor and economic reforms, and recognised the contributions of women, farmers, teachers, and healthcare workers. The President also emphasised constitutional nationalism and the need to protect citizens’ rights while celebrating India’s progress.
A minor fire caused by an electrical short circuit at Chennai airport's T2 terminal was quickly controlled, with no flight disruptions.
The Hindu's webinar on January 24, 2026, explored the future of education funding with expert panellists.
Severe rain and thunderstorms hit Delhi; IMD issues red and orange alerts for several districts, warning of potential hail.
Kerala court denies bail to Shimjitha Musthafa in Deepak's suicide case, citing potential evidence tampering and ongoing investigation.
Renowned Carnatic singer and author, T.M. Krishna at The Hindu Lit Fest 2026 spoke about his latest book, We, The People of India: Decoding a Nation’s Symbols with Suhrith Parthasarathy. The idea came about seven or eight years ago, when he began singing “the unsung verses” of Indian national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, and began asking himself “What does singing an anthem mean to me?” after being deeply moved by it.
A Supreme Court plea challenges UGC's 2026 caste discrimination definition, claiming it excludes non-reserved categories from protection.
A Bihar teacher was arrested for allegedly chanting pro-Jinnah slogans during a school Republic Day event, sparking controversy.