Shillong, June 22: Meghalaya’s efforts to reshape early childhood care have earned national recognition, with the Meghalaya Early Childhood Development Mission conferred the Gold SKOCH Award in the Early Childhood Development category at the 108th SKOCH Summit Public Policy Forum in New Delhi.
The award, presented at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry during a session on ‘Regulatory Framework for Viksit Bharat’, places Meghalaya among the country’s front-runners in social sector innovation and governance.
It honors the state’s work in building a collaborative, multi-departmental model focused on the first years of a child’s life.The Mission cleared a rigorous evaluation that began in March 2026.
Over several months it was shortlisted from initiatives nationwide and assessed through project presentations, public voting, third-party expert reviews, documentation, photographs, videos and outcome analysis.
The SKOCH jury highlighted Meghalaya’s ability to move beyond basic service delivery by creating a statewide ecosystem centered on community ownership, responsive caregiving, nutrition, early learning and behaviour change.Anchored by the Department of Social Welfare, the ECD Mission brought together the Health, Education and Community & Rural Development departments along with MSRLS, SRES, development partners, faith-based groups, community institutions and frontline workers.
Jurors noted the integration of ECD within Self-Help Group platforms, engagement of faith-based organizations at the community level, the Music and Movement Programme for early stimulation, and a strong focus on Gender Equality and Social Inclusion as standout features.
Officials said the Gold Award is both recognition of work done so far and a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to ensure every child gets adequate care, nutrition, stimulation and protection for a strong start in life.
The Mission stated it will continue strengthening partnerships and scaling innovations to reach more families across Meghalaya.
The award was received by a state delegation led by Ronald Kynta, Chief Operating Officer of the Meghalaya ECD Mission, along with Programme Manager Nayna Warjri and Civil Engineer Meaibor Hiam Roy M Pdah.
