Statement by India at the Annual full-day discussion on the rights of the child, on the theme: “Early Childhood Development”, at the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council (24 February – 4 April 2025) delivered by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, PMI Geneva
Geneva, 13 March 2025
Mr. President,
We appreciate the Panellists for their thoughtful contributions. Early childhood development is crucial not only for a child’s well-being but also for the overall well-being of society. Investing in children’s growth and education brings lifelong advantages, creating a ripple effect that extends to families, communities, nations, and the world.
- India has given priority to adopting child-focused policies and programs that promote development, protection, and participation for children.
- Fifty years ago, we launched one of the largest community-based programs - Anganwadi centers, under our Integrated Child Development Scheme. Today, over 70 million children benefit from early childhood care and nutrition, enhancing their overall well-being through this initiative.
- Our flagship initiative, the Poshan Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission), focuses on tackling malnutrition and addressing issues like stunting, under-nutrition, anaemia, and low birth weight. Currently, this initiative has 85 million beneficiaries, including 28 million children under six.
- Similarly, through Samagra Shiksha Abhiyaan, India has made concerted efforts to provide inclusive, equitable and quality education for all. Under this program, enrolment in primary education has increased to over 97% across the country.
Mr. President
- India is committed to ensuring that every child is given an opportunity to develop in a safe, healthy, inclusive and empowering environment—because for us every child's potential matters.
I thank you.
