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Nurturing Childhood. Empowering Mothers. Strengthening Communities

Building Strong Foundations in the First 1000 Days

In the rural and tribal villages of Simdega, many mothers work as daily wage labourers, farmers, or informal workers. During working hours, infants and toddlers are often left at home without safe supervision or are taken to worksites where they are exposed to unsafe conditions. The earliest years of life, especially from 7 months to 3 years, are critical for brain development, nutrition, emotional bonding, and overall growth.

 To address this urgent need, Chotanagpur Kalyan Niketan has launched the Rural Creche Initiative In partnership with Azimpremji Foundation to provide safe, community based childcare support for children aged 7 months to 3 years.

Our Vision

 We envision rural communities where no infant or toddler is left unattended, malnourished, or deprived of early stimulation due to poverty or lack of services. The initiative strengthens both child protection and women’s economic participation by ensuring reliable childcare at the village level.

Current Progress

  • 6 community creches are fully operational in selected villages of Simdega

  • Infants and toddlers receive daily care, nutrition, and early stimulation

  • Mothers report improved ability to work regularly and increase household income

  • Community demand for creches is growing rapidly

Our goal is to establish 20 creches in total, with 14 more to be set up in underserved tribal pockets.

creche
bhedikudar creche opening
kochodega opening

Why Rural Creches Matter

The age group of 7 months to 3 years is the most vulnerable stage of life. Malnutrition, neglect, and lack of stimulation during this period can have lifelong consequences. By creating structured, safe childcare spaces within villages, the Rural Creche Initiative:

  • Reduces child malnutrition

  • Prevents unsafe neglect

  • Supports early brain development

  • Enables mothers to work with dignity

  • Strengthens child protection systems at the grassro

Creche Initiative

Safe and Nurturing Environment

  • Clean, child friendly space within the village

  • Trained local caregivers

  • Safe sleeping and play areas for infants and toddlers

Nutrition and Health Support

  • Age appropriate, nutritious meals and snacks

  • Regular growth monitoring

  • Linkages to health services and immunization

Early Stimulation and Development

  • Play based activities for cognitive and motor development

  • Sensory engagement and language stimulation

  • Social and emotional development support

Community Ownership

  • Involvement of parents and village committees

  • Awareness sessions on infant care, breastfeeding, and hygiene

  • Strengthening local responsibility for childcare

Our Present Creches

CKN Creche Updates