Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Maharashtra Scales Early Childhood Development via Aarambh
The Aarambh program in Maharashtra is helping young children grow up healthy and happy.
It teaches parents and caregivers how to take care of babies from the time they are born until they are two years old.
The program uses existing government services and community workers to make sure every child gets good food, love, and learning opportunities.
They also use fun games and stories to explain why these things are important.
The program has been so successful that it is now being expanded to all districts in Maharashtra.
Other states are also interested in using this model to help their children too.
Aarambh program focuses on early childhood development in Maharashtra.
Integrates nutrition, caregiving, learning, health, and safety for children under two.
Uses existing government systems like ICDS and health services for implementation.
Piloted in Yavatmal and Aurangabad, now scaling statewide.
Emphasizes community involvement and behavior change through frontline workers.
Utilizes technology and digital content for wider reach and engagement.
- Who
- Government of Maharashtra, UNICEF, MGIMS, frontline workers, families
- What
- Aarambh program for early childhood development
- When
- Piloted in Yavatmal and Aurangabad, now scaling statewide
- Where
- Maharashtra, India
- Why
- To improve brain development, nutrition, emotional bonding, and lifelong health in early childhood
Government and UNICEF Collaboration
Community and Frontline Workers
Implementation Strategy
Government and UNICEF Collaboration
The Government of Maharashtra and UNICEF support the Aarambh program through technical expertise and capacity building.
Community and Frontline Workers
Frontline workers and community systems are crucial for delivering nurturing care and driving behavior change.
- Program Name
- Aarambh
- Supporting Organizations
- UNICEF, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS), Sevagram
- Target Age Group
- From conception to age two
- Key Components
- Nutrition, responsive caregiving, early learning, health services, safety
- Pilot Districts
- Yavatmal and Aurangabad
- Scaling Approach
- Utilizing existing ICDS and health infrastructure
- Behavior Change Focus
- Holistic child development, not just malnutrition
- Technology Use
- Digital content and community campaigns