Vishwajit Rane Leads Experiential Learning Revolution in Goa Anganwadis

 In a pioneering move to redefine early childhood education, Goa Health Minister Shri Vishwajit Rane has rolled out a series of hands-on learning activities across the state’s network of Anganwadis. The initiative, fully aligned with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and under the guidance of Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smt. Annpurna Devi, introduces children to practical life skills, cultural heritage, and environmental awareness through direct engagement with traditional practices.

From Field to Plate: Understanding Rice Cultivation

Children across Anganwadis participated in structured field visits and demonstrations covering the complete journey of rice from harvesting golden paddy stalks to the final milling process that produces the staple grain. Facilitated by local farmers and Anganwadi workers, these sessions demystified agricultural cycles, highlighted the importance of food security, and instilled respect for labour-intensive traditional farming. The activity not only educated young minds but also reinforced Goa’s agrarian roots in an increasingly urbanizing society.

Earthen Pots: Science, Sustainability, and Healthy Living

A dedicated module focused on the multifunctional role of earthen pots (matkas) in daily life. Children learned how these clay vessels naturally cool water through evaporation, reduce the need for refrigeration, and preserve nutrients during cooking. Practical demonstrations compared temperature retention with modern containers, offering a science-backed lesson in sustainability. The session also emphasized health benefits earthen cookware avoids chemical leaching and enhances flavour, promoting traditional, chemical-free diets.

Reviving Heritage: The Art of Stone Grinding

Using traditional stone grinders (chakki or sillod), children explored the age-old method of preparing spice pastes, masalas, and batters. They observed how manual grinding preserves essential oils, texture, and aroma qualities often lost in electric processing. This activity served as a bridge to Goa’s culinary legacy, teaching patience, precision, and the value of slow food traditions. Anganwadi teachers integrated storytelling, linking tools to grandmothers’ kitchens and regional festivals.

A Vision Beyond Textbooks: Holistic Development Framework

Minister Vishwajit Rane has consistently advocated for education that goes beyond rote learning. “Our children must grow with curiosity, not just certificates,” he stated during a review meeting. The program is designed to stimulate cognitive, motor, and emotional development through sensory-rich, contextual learning. By connecting classroom concepts with real-world applications, it lays the foundation for environmentally conscious, culturally grounded citizens.

Statewide Implementation with National Alignment

The initiative has been scaled across all 1,260+ Anganwadis in Goa, with training modules provided to over 2,000 workers. Learning materials, including visual aids and toolkits, have been distributed in local languages Konkani, Marathi, and English. Regular monitoring ensures uniformity and impact assessment. The program draws direct inspiration from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Saksham Anganwadi guidelines, reflecting a synchronized effort between state innovation and central policy.

Early feedback from parents and educators has been overwhelmingly positive. “My child now asks how rice reaches our plate,” shared a parent from Margao. Teachers report increased engagement, especially among shy or differently-abled children who respond better to tactile learning.

As Goa positions itself as a model state in child welfare, Minister Rane has announced plans to expand the program with modules on coconut craftsmanship, traditional fishing nets, and Goan pottery in the next phase.

This initiative stands as a testament to proactive governance where policy meets practice, and tradition fuels tomorrow.