When people think of Zilla Parishad (ZP) schools or Anganwadis, they often see them merely as centers for education catering to children from underprivileged families. However, Nandurbar District Magistrate Dr. Mittali Sethi has challenged this perception in a remarkable way.
Dr. Sethi recently enrolled her own twin children, Shukar and Sabar, in the Tokar Lake Anganwadi, located about four kilometers from Nandurbar city. This bold move has sparked statewide discussions and earned widespread praise for highlighting social responsibility as well as the significance of government-run institutions.
The decision was inspired by the innovative “Jholi” concept developed by Anganwadi workers. Explaining her choice, Dr. Sethi said, “Since the school and Anganwadi are in the same premises, attention will be paid to both. We will also gain first-hand experience of what needs to be improved in other Anganwadis across the district. This is about social responsibility.”
### Who is Dr. Mittali Sethi?
An IAS officer, Dr. Sethi took charge as the District Collector of Nandurbar in August 2024, following her tenure as Director of Vanamati Sanstha. Her decision to enroll her children in a ZP Anganwadi is being seen as an inspirational step to encourage urban and middle-class families to reconsider the value of government schools and Anganwadis.
While ZP schools often evoke a sense of nostalgia, they are rarely chosen by families in urban areas today. Dr. Sethi’s initiative is expected to change attitudes and build greater trust in these institutions, particularly in the tribal and rural regions of Maharashtra.
Her action is receiving widespread appreciation across the state, with many praising it as a powerful example for other officers and public figures to follow. By leading through example, Dr. Mittali Sethi is redefining the narrative around government education and social responsibility.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/nandurbar-collector-dr-mitali-sethi-breaks-stereotypes-sends-twins-to-zilla-parishad-anganwadi-video
