UNICEF India Delegation Visits Rajnandgaon to Strengthen Development Initiatives
Rajnandgaon, December 10, 2024: The Rajnandgaon District Administration hosted a high-level delegation from UNICEF India, led by Deputy Representative Operations Ms. Sharada Thapalia and CFO Mr. William Hanlon Jr., to review and reinforce their collaborative efforts in advancing community-led development initiatives.
The delegation engaged with stakeholders involved in transformative programs like #Yuvoday, a youth-driven initiative tackling pressing issues such as child marriage, adolescent health, and education. They also visited a local Anganwadi center to observe Potth Laika Pahal, an innovative approach to combating malnutrition through peer learning and community-based counseling.
Applauding Rajnandgaon’s accomplishments, Ms. Thapalia highlighted the district’s status as Chhattisgarh’s first ODF Plus model district, emphasizing the critical role of community engagement and youth leadership in driving sustainable development. “The active participation of women and youth in programs like Yuvoday showcases the transformative power of collective action,” she said.
District Collector Shri Sanjay Agrawal expressed gratitude for UNICEF’s continued support, stating, “The partnership with UNICEF has been instrumental in empowering our youth and communities to take ownership of development. Programs like Yuvoday exemplify how leadership at the grassroots can drive lasting change.”
Adding to this, CEO of Zila Panchayat, Ms. Suruchi Singh, underscored the impact of initiatives like Potth Laika Pahal in addressing malnutrition and fostering healthier communities. “Through innovative practices and community-driven strategies, we are achieving remarkable outcomes. UNICEF’s technical expertise and guidance have been crucial in these successes,” she said.
The visit also included consultations with district officials and CSR partners, such as ABIS, to explore public-private collaborations in achieving sustainable development goals. These discussions reaffirmed the district’s dedication to creating a cleaner, healthier, and more inclusive future for its residents.
The visit concluded with a commitment to deepening the partnership between UNICEF and Rajnandgaon, ensuring sustained progress toward improving the lives of children and communities across the district.
