Anganwadi cum Crèche Initiative
Context
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched a first-of-its-kind initiative by integrating creche facilities with Anganwadi centres under the Palna component.
Relevance:
GS02 (Government policies and interventions)
Key highlights:
- This initiative, termed Anganwadi cum Crèche (AWCC), is designed to support working mothers by providing full-day childcare services for children aged 6 months to 6 years.
- Currently, 10,609 AWCCs have been approved based on proposals from various states and union territories. West Bengal, for instance, had proposals for 10 AWCCs approved, but these are yet to be operationalised.
- The state governments are responsible for submitting proposals and co-funding the scheme in collaboration with the central government.
What is the project about?
- The AWCC initiative addresses the childcare challenges faced by working mothers, especially in nuclear families and urbanised settings where traditional family support is often unavailable.
- It offers a safe, nurturing environment for children, providing nutritional support, health monitoring, immunisation, and cognitive development.
- Significantly, the program is open to all mothers, irrespective of their employment status, and aims to formalise childcare responsibilities.
- This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 8 (decent work and economic growth) by enabling women to focus on gainful employment without the burden of unpaid childcare.
Significance
- Women Workforce Participation: By ensuring reliable childcare, the initiative removes a key obstacle for women wanting to join or remain in the workforce.
- Child Development: The program supports children’s growth through nutrition, health care, and early learning opportunities.
- Social Equity: It bridges the gap between organised and unorganised sectors by offering accessible services to all socioeconomic groups.
- Global Goals: The formalisation of care work supports the decent work agenda, contributing to broader economic and social development.
Way Forward
- State governments should expedite the operationalisation of AWCCs and improve coordination for efficient implementation.
- Awareness programs must be launched to inform mothers about the benefits of AWCCs.
- Regular monitoring and feedback mechanisms are essential to ensure the quality and reach of services.
- This initiative is a significant step towards empowering women and fostering inclusive growth.
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