Government adopting a whole-of-government approach to ensure convergence in the implementation of initiatives related to Early Childhood Care and Education

**Executive Summary** The Government of India is adopting a whole-of-government approach to ensure convergence in the implementation of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) initiatives under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Key measures include the nationwide implementation of the ‘Vidya Pravesh’ preparation module and the co-location of Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) with primary schools, as per guidelines issued on 3 September 2025. These initiatives aim to provide a seamless educational continuum for children aged 3 to 8 years as they transition into formal schooling. **Key Points / Main Content** **Educational Structure under NEP 2020** * The NEP 2020 recognizes a 5+3+3+4 structure, where the first five years constitute the "Foundational Stage." * The Foundational Stage includes three years of pre-school (Balvatika/AWCs) and two years of formal schooling (Grade-I and Grade-II). * This stage caters specifically to children between the ages of 3 and 8 years. **Vidya Pravesh Programme** * Launched on 29 July 2021, Vidya Pravesh is a three-month, play-based ‘School Preparation Module.’ * The module is designed to ensure school preparedness for children entering Grade-I from diverse backgrounds, including private play schools, AWCs, and home environments. * Implementation occurs across the country during the first three months of Grade-I. **Convergence and Institutional Linkages** * The government is utilizing a whole-of-government approach to unify ECCE initiatives across Balvatikas, AWCs, and private sectors. * Joint guidelines were issued on 3 September 2025 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Department of School Education and Literacy regarding the co-location of AWCs with Government primary schools. * Co-location is intended to strengthen institutional links and facilitate the transition from pre-school to formal education. **Impact Analysis** **Children (Ages 3-8)** **Impact** Children benefit from a standardized "Foundational Stage" and a dedicated three-month preparation period to ease the transition into formal education. **Action Required** Engage with the ‘Vidya Pravesh’ module during the first three months of Grade-I. **Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) and Primary Schools** **Impact** These institutions will see increased physical and administrative integration through co-location and shared guidelines. **Action Required** Implement co-location protocols as per the joint guidelines issued by the Department of School Education and Literacy and the Ministry of Women and Child Development. **Government Departments (Ministry of WCD and Dept. of School Education)** **Impact** Departments must transition from siloed operations to a "whole-of-government" approach to ensure policy convergence. **Action Required** Coordinate the implementation of ECCE initiatives and ensure the effective rollout of school preparation modules and institutional linkages.

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