As you make your way through quite corners of the remote villages of Northeast India, you will likely come across a simple, single storey structure with a rusty shed roof. This humble structure holds an extraordinary mission, which is called as an Anganwadi centers: a community-based child care unit standing as an India’s grassroots effort to provide wholesome Integrated Child Development and education to children below the age of six. The beauty of this Anganwadi is that it serves an extraordinary purpose to nourish, educate, and empower its youngest citizens.

Anganwadi is a Hindi word for subset of rural child care and mother care centers, established by the Indian Government in the year 1975 as part of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. Since their inception, these centres have aimed to bridge the gap between early childhood development, nutrition, and maternal health, especially in rural and underserved areas. They provide basic pre-school education, mid-day meals, vaccinations, and health check-ups, along with guidance for mothers on childcare and nutrition with community support  under one roof.

In states like Meghalaya, and more specifically in remote areas like districts of Garo Hills, these centres are often the only point of access to such services. However, many of them face significant infrastructure challenges. Our recent baseline survey across East & West Garo Hills revealed that several centres are struggling with cracked walls, leaky roofs, lack of electricity, poor lighting and insufficient learning materials. Some rely on shared or unhygienic cooking spaces, and classrooms often lack the visual or sensory stimulation vital for young minds.

Despite these shortcomings, the centres continue to operate and serve their communities because they are often the only space where children from these villages can receive any form of structured learning or nutrition. For many parents, the Anganwadi is a trusted institution where their children are safe, fed, and gently introduced to education. It serves as a foundation for life, not just a preschool and also act as one of the few places where mothers receive basic support in maternal care and child upbringing practices, often under the guidance of local women trained as Anganwadi workers.

These workers form the backbone of the system. Most of these women belongs from the local communities they serve, offering familiarity and continuity to the families. They act not only as educators and caregivers but also as frontline health and social service providers. Their role is crucial in promoting early childhood development and building trust between public institutions and rural communities. They provide assistance to parents in raising their children and for children, they provide a structured environment to learn and grow. Additionally, they serve as a platform for empowerment, leadership, and service for Anganwadi workers, who are primarily women from the local community.

In recent months, a small but impactful transformation was conducted to give shape the region. The upgradation project in 5 Anganwadi centres across East & West Garo Hills of Meghalaya, have received solar-powered lighting and fans, making the classrooms more comfortable and functional.

The walls have been painted with educational murals turning the area into a visual playground of letters, numbers, new learning toys and colourful furniture have been introduced to help children engage better with their surroundings. While these upgrades may seem modest, they significantly improve the learning environment and the daily experiences of parents, children and workers.

This quiet transformation is an example of what thoughtful, intention & investment can achieve. It illustrates how small improvements can create a more nurturing space for early childhood care and learning, even in remote regions with limited resources. More importantly, it reinforces the importance of supporting foundational education and maternal health as integral parts of sustainable rural development. What’s happening in Meghalaya, through community-based design, solar electrification, and creative learning interventions, offers a replicable model for climate-resilient, inclusive education.

The story of Anganwadis in India mirrors global challenges around early childhood education in remote and underserved regions. In places like the Garo Hills, Anganwadi centres are not just service delivery points, they are symbols of resilience, care, and hope. By investing in their revival and functionality, we are not only supporting childhood development but also reinforcing a social structure that benefits families, empowers women, and strengthens the fabric of rural communities.

 While in Walong, don’t miss the natural spa at Tilam Hot Water Springs, where you can relax in the healing waters surrounded by the untamed beauty of the region.

To experience the first sunrise of India, cross the bridge into Dong village and hike up the mountain to witness the first sun’s rays on Indian soil.

Next, travel further to Kaho, India’s easternmost village, home to the Meyor tribe, one of Arunachal’s most secluded communities. The journey to Kaho takes you along a remote yet comfortable road, offering stunning Himalayan views at every turn

Upon reaching Kaho, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the last remaining members of the Meyor tribe, who have preserved their traditions through generations. Meet the Meyors and discover their unique customs and way of life.

Here, dawn isn’t just the start of a day—it’s a story of people, land, and time unfolding in golden light.

The road to Kaho offers breathtaking views as you navigate through cliffs and valleys, with each curve revealing more of the stunning landscape. Through this visual journey, The Rising Sun Circuit invites you to discover not only the places of Arunachal Pradesh but the stories of resilience, faith and the harmonious blend of nature and culture. Let every moment take you deeper into the heart of this incredible region, where the first rays of the Indian sun illuminate a world waiting to be discovered.

Want to witness the first sunrise in India? Check out the itinerary and book your trip here: https://www.mountainhomestays.com/tour/the-rising-sun-circuit/