Fathers take lead in nurturing nutrition, caregiving: Harkesh Nagar celebrates Father’s Day with purpose

By A Representative 

Father’s Day was observed with heartfelt enthusiasm and a strong message of caregiving at a community event in Harkesh Nagar, New Delhi. Organized by Satark Yuva Sangathan (SYS) in collaboration with Asha Workers and the local Anganwadi Centre, the event aimed to highlight the often-overlooked role of fathers in child nutrition, development, and emotional well-being.

Themed "Papa Bhi Zimmedar: For Paushtik and Balanced Aahaar", the celebration brought together 94 participants, including children, fathers, caregivers, Asha workers, and civil society partners. The event provided a platform for champion fathers from under-resourced communities to share personal stories of parenting and their efforts in promoting healthy habits and emotional support for their children.

One of the highlights was an open sharing circle where fathers recounted their parenting journeys. From childhood memories to current caregiving practices, fathers reflected on their role in shaping their children’s futures.

Giasuddin, a ragpicker and father of four daughters, shared, “I didn’t listen to my father and regret it. That’s why I make sure my girls study, so they can grow up confident and capable.”

Kallu Kumar, a rickshaw puller, added, “My dream is for my daughters to be healthy and happy. I ensure they eat nutritious food and have time to play.”

Others emphasized the importance of mental well-being, technology use, and balanced parenting.

Sapan, a community leader, stressed, “Healthy food and a stress-free environment are key. I try to recreate the joy of my own childhood with my kids.”

Birju, a fabricator, spoke about guiding his children in responsible use of mobile phones and social media, noting, “Technology can either help or harm — children need support to use it wisely.”

Nimai Mahto underlined the connection between learning and nourishment: “A nutritious diet is essential for a child’s mental and physical growth.”

Ganesh, a SYS member, added, “I gave my daughter the love and freedom I didn’t receive. Parenting should be shared by both mother and father.”

Welcoming the gathering, Parveen, an Anganwadi worker from Janta Jeewan Camp, said, “This Father’s Day, we honour the silent strength of fathers who nurture families in subtle yet powerful ways.”

The event concluded with remarks from Dr. Indu Prakash Singh, Advisor at SYS, who reflected on fatherhood as a journey of growth: “When a child is born, a father is also born. We must create a home where children learn through example. Celebrating positive fatherhood can inspire more men to take on caregiving roles.”

The event culminated in the formation of a Fathers Club — a platform for continued dialogue and peer support around parenting. Additional activities included a signature campaign, a photo-video montage of fathers with their children, and a heartwarming ceremony where children presented roses and mementos to their fathers.

The event was coordinated by the Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR), a New Delhi-based NGO working to strengthen community-led advocacy and action.