Needs Assessment Study on Learn Play Grow - Improved foundational learning and WASH practices for children in Anganwadi centres in Telangana and Rajasthan November 2024- January 2025

Author - | Published - 2025

CMS conducted a needs assessment for the Learn Play Grow program, a USAID and Sesame Workshop India Trust (SWIT) initiative targeting foundational learning and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) in Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) across Baran (Rajasthan) and Jayashankar Bhupalapally (Telangana). CMS’s primary role was to assess training needs, infrastructure readiness, teaching practices, and digital/media usage to inform content and training module development. In depth interviews were conducted CDPOs, supervisors, PHED Engineers, Pradhan and 70 AWWs. In session and infrastructure observation was conducted too. 

 
Findings revealed that most ICDS officials and AWWs understood ECCE as play-based learning. However, training quality and frequency varied—more AWWs in Rajasthan reported training than in Telangana, though recall of content was inconsistent. CDPOs emphasized the need for regular, language-appropriate, and hands-on training. Teaching-Learning Materials (TLMs) were widely available but inconsistently used. Digital content was underutilized due to low digital literacy and poor infrastructure, particularly in Rajasthan.

 
Parental engagement and inclusive enrolment remain challenges, especially due to socio-economic barriers and caste-based exclusions. Infrastructure gaps were severe: few AWCs had functional toilets, safe play areas, or ramps. WASH practices were promoted but hindered by limited piped water and sanitation facilities. CMS recommended targeted refresher trainings, improved infrastructure, localized content, interdepartmental convergence, and community outreach to enhance ECCE and WASH delivery under the Learn Play Grow initiative.