In Odisha’s Kendrapara district, an anganwadi centre in Nuagaon has been non-functional for almost three months. Villagers stopped sending children after Sharmistha Sethy, a 20-year-old Dalit woman, was appointed as helper-cum-cook on November 20, 2025. Ms. Sethy, a graduate from a poor family, said, "They are not sending their children because I am a Dalit. Society has advanced in many ways, but if we continue to cling to casteism, we cannot progress." She also expressed her desire to become a teacher but said her appeals were ignored. The anganwadi worker confirmed that 20 children are enrolled but none attended recently despite efforts to bring them back. On February 10, Kendrapara district officials visited to discuss the issue with villagers. Child Development Project Officer Deepali Mishra said villagers didn’t give a clear reason but did not openly blame caste. She noted that the helper-cook post was advertised twice, in 2024 and 2025, and Ms. Sethy was the only applicant. Ms. Sethy’s duties include cooking meals, assisting in play-based learning, and health monitoring, with a monthly salary of ₹5,000. Authorities are seeking a solution to resume services and ensure children's early education continues. Villagers refused to comment publicly.