Gayatri Solanki

Gayatri Solanki is a dedicated Anganwadi Worker (AWW) in Singhana, Manawar, Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh. Over the span of 16 years, she has achieved remarkable milestones and positively impacted the lives of many in her community.

In the early years of her career, Gayatri faced challenges in organizing Village Health, Sanitation, and Nutrition Days (VHSNDs) due to a lack of infrastructure. However, her persistent efforts and regular recommendations to supervisors and officials led to her obtaining a separate room in the ICDS office, ensuring smooth functioning and quality service delivery.

Recognizing the struggles of some families who migrated, leaving their children alone, Gayatri took initiative to ensure no child went hungry. Using her stock of supplementary nutrition, she started feeding these children daily, continuing the practice for many others in need.

Her dedication to education is evident through her efforts to re-admit two young girls, Nandini and Varsha, who had dropped out after the 5th class. She also actively promotes Ladli Laxmi Yojna registration for newborn girls and initiated C-SAM screening and NRC referrals through coordination with NHM staff.

During the challenging times of COVID, Gayatri collaborated with the nearest sub-centre ANM to spread awareness about COVID vaccinations and quarantine facilities.

Despite the progress she has achieved, Gayatri has faced challenges, including the lack of adequate infrastructure and transportation. Convincing parents to avail the services of Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) also remains a hurdle.

To cope with these challenges, Gayatri built linkages with local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Village Organizations (VOs), allowing her to conduct home visits and reach beneficiaries more effectively. She also appreciates the support of ANMs in her area, which has facilitated the delivery of quality services to the community.

In her present role, Gayatri Solanki envisions larger goals for providing adequate services to all. She aspires to create a playful learning environment within AWCs, similar to private play schools, to enhance children's learning and make it enjoyable. Additionally, she aims to establish stronger ties between AWCs and schools, emphasizing AWCs as the primary point of education for children before direct school admission.

Through her unwavering dedication and forward-thinking approach, Gayatri continues to make a significant difference in her community, setting an inspiring example for others to follow.