Bhubaneswar: In a notable move towards child welfare, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has equipped 273 Anganwadi centers within its jurisdiction with water purifiers. BMC officials have confirmed that the remaining centers are also scheduled to receive this essential amenity in the near future. The procurement of these water purifiers was made possible through the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund of ICICI Bank.
The official handover occurred today during a special program at the BMC headquarters, attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Hon’ble Mayor Sulochana Das, Standing Committee Chairman Shri Biranchi Narayana Mahasupakara, Mihir Kumar Rout, Ajit Behera, Commissioner Shri Vijay Amruta Kulange, Additional Commissioner Suryawanshi Mayur Vikash, Subhendu Kumar Sahu, Deputy Commissioner Priyabrta Padhi, corporators, senior BMC officials, AGMO of ICICI Bank, Amiya Kumar Nayak, Chief Manager Shanti Bardhan Das, Panchanan Das, all CDPOS, and Anganwadi Workers.
Mayor Sulochana Das emphasized, “Children are the future of our country. It is our duty to keep them safe, which is why the CM has introduced numerous schemes. Providing access to clean drinking water for children is crucial. Each child will now have access to safe drinking water, thanks to the generous contribution of water purifiers by ICICI Bank.” The bank has also committed to maintaining the water purifiers for the next 5 years.
Additionally, Mayor Sulochana Das shared plans aligned with the directives of CM Naveen Patnaik, stating, “With the CM’s mandate, pucca houses will be constructed in every ward for Anganwadi centers. Tender processes will commence shortly to kickstart this commendable initiative.”
Commissioner Vijay Amruta Kulange stressed the importance of community participation, stating, “CSR funds signify a collective responsibility, regardless of the urban or rural context. It’s not about which organization contributes what; it’s about community participation, and everyone should raise their hand in support.”