SPNIWCD, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD), plays a pivotal role in research, training, and capacity-building in the sector. The renovated hostel aims to provide improved residential facilities for trainees, scholars, and participants attending various academic and outreach programmes.
Officials said the upgraded infrastructure would enhance the learning environment and support the Institute’s growing academic engagements. The Ministry has been focusing on strengthening such institutions to ensure quality service delivery and effective policy support.
Direct Interaction with Parents and Children
During the visit, the Minister interacted with parents and children availing services at the Child Guidance Centre (CGC) and the Adolescent Guidance Service Centre (AGSC). Minister of State Smt. Savitri Thakur and senior MWCD officials were also present.
The interaction provided an opportunity for parents to share their experiences and feedback about the counselling, assessment, and guidance services offered by the Institute. Several parents expressed appreciation for the professional support extended to children, including those with physical disabilities.
Addressing the gathering, Annpurna Devi emphasized that children form the foundation of the nation’s future. She urged parents to invest time and attention in their children’s growth and development, stressing that equal rights and opportunities must be ensured for every child, especially within the education system.
Reduced Waiting Period at Guidance Centres
Shri Valeti Premchand, Additional Secretary and Director of SPNIWCD, informed attendees about recent administrative reforms undertaken by the Ministry. He highlighted that the waiting period for assessments at CGC and AGSC, which previously extended up to six months, has now been significantly reduced.
According to officials, parents can now secure appointments at their convenience without long delays. The Institute assured that suggestions shared during the interaction would be examined carefully and appropriate action would be taken wherever necessary.
Faculty Development Programme Launched
The Minister also inaugurated a five-day Faculty Development Programme (FDP) on Research Methodology, scheduled from February 26 to March 2, 2026. The programme is being conducted in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR).
The FDP aims to strengthen institutional research capacity and promote evidence-based policy engagement in women and child development. It has been designed as a strategic academic initiative to align research training with contemporary standards and policy requirements.
Interacting with faculty members, the Minister encouraged continuous learning and skill enhancement. She noted that upgrading academic competencies is essential for maintaining SPNIWCD’s status as a premier national institute in the sector.
Strengthening Women and Child Development Framework
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has been undertaking multiple initiatives to improve service delivery mechanisms across institutions. The upgraded facilities at SPNIWCD and the launch of the Faculty Development Programme reflect the government’s broader vision of strengthening grassroots interventions through research-backed policies.
With improved infrastructure, responsive services, and enhanced academic focus, SPNIWCD is expected to further its role in shaping policies and programmes that directly impact women and children across the country.