KAKINADA (AP), JUNE 23, 2026: DIAGEO India (United Spirits Limited), one of India’s leading beverage alcohol (alcobev) companies, is working with the Andhra Pradesh District Administration to implement a comprehensive Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme across 50 Anganwadi Centres over the next two years in U. Kothapalli, Mandal, Kakinada districts. The partnership was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 19 June 2026.
The programme was launched in the presence of Pawan Kalyan, Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, who joined M N Harendhira Prasad, District Collector, Kakinada, senior leaders from DIAGEO India and Tarq Foundation to lay the foundation stone for the first Anganwadi Centre under the initiative.
Supported by implementation partner Tarq Foundation, the initiative aims to strengthen critical early childhood infrastructure by improving sanitation facilities, access to safe water, child safety measures, storage facilities and climate-resilient infrastructure across coastal communities. The programme is expected to create safer, cleaner and more child-friendly environments that support the health, nutrition, learning and well-being of young children while strengthening service delivery for Anganwadi workers and caregivers.
Sri M N Harendhira Prasad, District Collector, Kakinada, said:”Anganwadi Centres are at the heart of our efforts to improve early childhood development outcomes and strengthen community well-being. This partnership will help create safer, more hygienic and better-equipped centres for children and caregivers. We appreciate DIAGEO India’s commitment to supporting Andhra Pradesh’s development through meaningful and sustainable community interventions.”
Devashish Dasgupta, Director, Corporate Relations at Diageo India (USL), said:“Creating shared value for communities is central to our Spirit of Progress agenda. We are proud to partner with the Kakinada District Administration and Tarq Foundation to strengthen Anganwadi infrastructure and improve access to safe, child-friendly and hygienic spaces. By investing in the well-being of children and families, we hope to contribute to stronger foundations for learning, health and development across the region.”
Manoviraj Singh, Founding Partner, Tarq Foundation, said:”Strong communities are built on strong institutions, and Anganwadi Centres are among the most important institutions supporting children in their formative years. Through this partnership, we aim to create resilient, functional and child-friendly centres that enhance hygiene, safety and early learning outcomes. We are honoured to work alongside DIAGEO India and the Kakinada District Administration in delivering lasting impact for children and families.”
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