In the lush, tribal-dominated regions of Dadra Nagar Haveli, a quiet revolution is unfolding—one that begins with the smallest members of the community. Project Nanhe Kadam (Little Steps), initiated by the Animedh Charitable Trust (ACT) in 2018, is transforming lives by addressing gaps in early childhood development. Born from the realization that long-term empowerment requires nurturing the youngest minds, this project focuses on children aged 0–6 years, offering early intervention for developmental delays and disabilities. Through community-driven efforts, Nanhe Kadam is not just changing individual lives but uplifting entire families.

Amruta, a bright-eyed girl from Bidri Patel Pada village, Silvassa, embodies the heart of this mission. Her story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of timely care.

The Challenge: A Silent Struggle

Amruta was born in 2018 into a loving family, but her early years were marked by silent struggles. While children her age began babbling, walking, and exploring, Amruta relied on gestures to communicate. She could only nod her head for “yes” and utter two words: “Maa” (Mom) and “Na” (No). Gross motor skills, like sitting independently or walking, seemed out of reach. Her parents worried—was this their child’s destiny?

In many tribal communities like Amruta’s, limited access to healthcare and parental awareness about developmental milestones often lead to undiagnosed delays. ACT’s assessments revealed an urgent need: early childhood intervention could not wait.

Nanhe Kadam’s Approach

Project Nanhe Kadam operates on a simple yet powerful principle: empower communities to heal themselves. ACT trained four local women as Child Development Aides (CDAs), equipping them with skills to identify delays and provide therapeutic support. These CDAs became bridges between families and experts, delivering care right at doorsteps.

The program focuses on:

1. Early Identification: Screening children for developmental delays.

2. Therapeutic Support: Customized exercises for motor, speech, and cognitive skills.

3. Parent Education: Guiding caregivers to become active participants in their child’s growth.

For Amruta, this meant weekly sessions with a CDA, who designed playful activities to strengthen her muscles and spark her speech.

Amruta’s Transformation: From First Steps to First Words
Change began with small, steady strides.

• Months 1–6: Amruta learned to sit without support. Her mother, guided by the CDA, practiced balance games and gentle stretches with her.

• Months 7–14: Amruta took her first steps—wobbly but determined. Her mother recalls, “She’d fall, get up, and try again. Her courage amazed me.”

• Months 15–17: A language breakthrough! Amruta started mimicking words. “Dada! Mama! Nana!” she’d exclaim during playtime. Her giggles filled their home.

Today, Amruta walks confidently, runs with friends, and speaks in short phrases. Her mother tears up as she shares, “I never imagined she’d call me ‘Maa’ so clearly. Nanhe Kadam showed us what she’s capable of.

The Ripple Effect: Beyond One Child
Amruta is one of many children touched by Nanhe Kadam. The project’s success lies in its sustainability: by training local CDAs, ACT ensures that support remains embedded in the community. Parents, once hesitant, now advocate for early screenings. Women CDAs take pride in their role as changemakers.

“Earlier, we didn’t know these delays could be fixed,” says a CDA. “Now, we see children thriving. It gives us hope.”

Conclusion: Building Futures, One Step at a Time

Amruta’s journey mirrors the ethos of Nanhe Kadam—every small step matters. By investing in early childhood, we don’t just change trajectories; we unlock potential.

As Amruta races across her village, her laughter echoing, she reminds us that every child deserves a chance to soar. Projects like Nanhe Kadam are not just interventions—they’re promises of a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.

Join us in celebrating these little victories. Because when we nurture nanhe kadam, we pave the way for giant leaps.

To support Project Nanhe Kadam or learn more, visit Nanhe Kadam Page. Together, let’s turn small steps into lifelong strides.