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Kolkata, India — UNICEF has announced plans to establish Early Child Development (ECD) clinics in all districts of West Bengal, aiming to provide comprehensive developmental care for children up to three years of age. This expansion follows the success of existing clinics and initiatives in the state, said Dr. Monjur Hossain, UNICEF’s Chief in West Bengal, during an event marking National Newborn Week on Monday.
Currently, ECD services are available at the Centre of Excellence in SSKM Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata and District Early Intervention Centres (DEICs) in 17 of West Bengal’s 28 health districts. The new initiative seeks to extend these services statewide, focusing on child-centred interventions to address developmental delays and ensure holistic care.
Collaboration and Community Impact
UNICEF’s collaboration with Nanritam, an organization specializing in developmental paediatrics, has been instrumental in the success of pilot projects in South 24-Parganas. These projects have included training for Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, community nurses, and other healthcare staff to identify and support children needing special care.
“This local-level knowledge and evidence will inform our policy advocacy and resource mobilization with the government,” Dr. Hossain explained. “Scaling up the programme will ensure every child has access to necessary care, leaving no one behind.”
Parents in these pilot areas have responded enthusiastically to the services, which include training sessions on creating age-appropriate toys from household items and discarded materials like egg trays.
Comprehensive Care at ECD Clinics
The ECD clinics will be equipped with specialized teams, including paediatricians, physiotherapists, special educators, psychologists, speech therapists, and occupational therapists. They will use developmental kits and toys to address delays and foster growth.
Dr. Nandita Chattopadhyay, a developmental paediatrician and director of Nanritam, highlighted the clinics’ holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.
“These clinics are critical for addressing developmental delays at an early stage, enabling children to reach their full potential,” she said.
Government Support and Future Plans
UNICEF plans to approach the West Bengal government for cooperation to implement this initiative across the state. By leveraging evidence from the pilot projects, the organization hopes to secure policy support and resources to expand the programme.
The initiative aligns with the government’s broader efforts to improve maternal and child health services, and UNICEF believes it will serve as a model for other states in India.
With this expansion, West Bengal could emerge as a leader in early childhood development, setting an example for inclusive and accessible healthcare for children.
