While the state stands tall as an industrial pioneer, its remote areas await transformation and development. From the Adivasi (tribal) regions of the Dangs to the arid landscapes of Saurashtra, the natives call for the fundamental necessities of life. 

In an effort to enhance the well-being of women and children, the Gujarat government has identified 13 talukas spanning across 10 districts for a transformative initiative under the ‘Aspirational Block Programme’ (ABP). 

The programme, launched in 2022, is an initiative aimed at improving the performance of those areas that are lagging on various development parameters.

Which are the aspirational talukas?

The talukas of Nandod, Garbada, Kukarmunda, Nizar, Kawant, Naswadi, Tharad, Subir, Ghoghamba, Lakhpat, Rapar, Sayla, and Santalpur have been shortlisted for the programme.

Around 39 key performance indicators (KPIs), including health, nutrition, education, agriculture, water resources, financial inclusion, skill development, and infrastructure, were monitored under ABP to transform the areas.

A detailed action plan has been formulated by allotting ₹1 cr to each taluka for development.

Focus on the well-being of mothers and children

Even the 2023-24 state budget echoed the upliftment of the conditions of women and children in Gujarat by focusing on their health and nutrition needs.

Programmes attributed to pregnant women, nursing mothers, and malnourished children are organised actively in the state with the help of  Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and Anganwadi workers. 

They also addressed huge numbers of cases of anaemia in teenage girls and pregnant women and are trying to curb it.

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