Bhubaneswar, 14 November (H.S.): The Odisha Government on Saturday organised ‘Kotie Hasa – Annual Child Fest 2026’ across the State to promote holistic child development, joyful parenting and the importance of nurturing care during early childhood.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida attended the State-level celebration at Mainshikhal in Harinagar, Bhubaneswar, where around 700 children aged 0–6 years participated along with their parents and caregivers. She called for greater parental involvement in ensuring a happy, healthy and stimulating childhood for every child.

Organised by the Women and Child Development Department on the occasion of Children's Day, the festival was simultaneously celebrated at Anganwadi Centres across Odisha and through district- and State-level programmes. A range of interactive and play-based activities brought children, parents and caregivers together.

Addressing the gathering, Parida said the foundation of a child's future is laid during the formative years through love, affection, proper care and meaningful engagement. She emphasised that nurturing children is a shared responsibility of both parents and urged fathers to take an active role in childcare and early learning.

She also stressed the need to preserve traditional practices such as lullabies, storytelling and playful interactions, noting their contribution to children's emotional, social and cognitive development.

The State-level event featured separate activities for infants and toddlers aged 0–3 years and children in the 3–6 years age group, with a special focus on involving parents in their children's everyday learning experiences.

During her visit to various activity corners, the Deputy Chief Minister interacted with children, parents and Anganwadi Workers and encouraged families to make play-based learning an integral part of child-rearing.

The activity corners showcased materials on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), Pre-School Education (PSE) kits, traditional lullabies and storytelling sessions conducted by grandparents. Fathers demonstrated how to make toys using locally available, low-cost materials, while information, education and communication (IEC) materials on early childhood care and development were also displayed.

Children participated enthusiastically in action songs, dance, storytelling and drawing competitions, showcasing their creativity and talents. Parida presented prizes and certificates to the winners and felicitated fathers for their innovative efforts in making toys. Gift kits were also distributed among children in the 0–6 years age group to encourage creative activities and play-based learning at home.

Beyond the State-level celebration, ‘Kotie Hasa’ was observed at all Anganwadi Centres across Odisha. Special district-level programmes were organised at selected model Anganwadi Centres near district headquarters.

The initiative aimed to strengthen awareness about responsive parenting, early childhood stimulation and the importance of a supportive environment for children's growth and development.

Through the annual festival, the department seeks to promote a childhood enriched with care, companionship, creativity and joyful learning. The initiative also reflects the State Government's commitment to strengthening early childhood care and education and ensuring an enabling environment for every child to grow, learn and flourish.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department Dr. Mrinalini Darswal, Director Monisha Banerjee and other senior departmental officials and dignitaries were present at the event.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda