MISSION SAKSHAM & PASHAN 2.0 (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Govt Scheme)

Context: The Ministry of Women and Child Development is organizing a national event to launch the Anganwadi Protocol for Divyang Children, an important commitment under the Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi program of Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.

• As per the National Education Policy 2020, integration of Divyang students into mainstream schools should be prioritized, rather than establishing segregated educational institutions.

Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.

• Fund: Centrally-sponsored program, executed in collaboration with State Governments/ UT administrations. 
• Vision: To combat the pervasive issue of malnutrition affecting children under the age of 6, adolescent girls aged 14-18, and pregnant or lactating women. 
• Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Pivotal to the program's design is its commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 
• It particularly targets SDG 2, focusing on Zero Hunger, and SDG 4, emphasizing Quality Education. By addressing malnutrition, Poshan 2.0 contributes directly to the forefront of achieving these global development goals.
• Focus on Nutrition: Poshan 2.0 places a special emphasis on the foundational significance of nutrition and early childhood care and education. By prioritizing these aspects, the mission aims to ensure the well-being, growth, and comprehensive development of children, fostering their transition into healthy and productive adults.
• Inclusivity and Eligibility: The scheme welcomes all eligible beneficiaries, with the sole precondition being registration at the nearest Anganwadi center with Aadhaar identification.
• This approach ensures accessibility and inclusivity in providing the necessary support to those in need.
• Target Beneficiaries: Adolescent girls aged 14-18 years, with identification and selection of beneficiaries carried out by the concerned states.