22 September 2025, Karnataka: United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), with CSR support from Kotak Mahindra Bank and in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka, is refurbishing 30 Anganwadi centres across Dharwad and Gadag districts.
The initiative aims to support holistic early childhood development for children aged 0-6 years.
The ‘Model Anganwadi Project’ focuses on creating child-friendly spaces equipped with safe learning materials, improved sanitation facilities, and access to nutritious food for children as well as pregnant and lactating mothers. Covering 30 villages, the project will benefit a total population of approximately 30,000. The launch event that took place at Anganwadi centre of Gadag (Kadampura 1 and 2), and Dharwad district (Aarekurahalli-5 and Annigere-21), on 19th September 2025 also marked the celebration of Nutrition Day, highlighting the importance of nutrition and holistic development in early childhood.
The refurbished Anganwadi Centres were inaugurated in the presence of key representatives from Women and Child Development (WCD), Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) Zilla Panchayat, Kotak Mahindra Bank and the UWBe team.
Himanshu Nivsarkar, Head – CSR & ESG, Kotak Mahindra Bank said “For many families in rural areas, Anganwadis are lifelines. Through the Model Anganwadi Project, we aim to empower communities by fostering healthier beginnings and brighter futures for children and mothers. It is a privilege to collaborate with United Way Bengaluru and the Women and Child Development Department on this meaningful initiative, as we continue to invest in the long-term well-being of our communities.”
Under the Born Learning Campaign, our vision for early childhood care is to transform Anganwadis into vibrant, safe, and inclusive spaces that foster learning and growth. For many children, Anganwadis are their first step into education and through our partnership with Kotak Mahindra Bank, we are building an ecosystem where every child has the opportunity to thrive. This initiative strongly reflects our commitment to education, health, and holistic community development,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.
As part of its CSR vision, Kotak Mahindra Bank is committed to supporting initiatives that create meaningful and sustainable impact, especially in the areas of education, health, and livelihood. The ‘Model Anganwadi Project’ aligns with this commitment by addressing critical early childhood needs in rural Karnataka and reinforcing Kotak’s focus on empowering communities from the ground up.
