Govt’s Anganwadi-Creche Plan Aims to Support Working Mothers

Swift Summary

• the BJP-led Delhi government has allocated ₹50 crore in its first budget too convert 500 anganwadi preschools into anganwadi-cum-creche centres under the ‘Palna national Creche Scheme.’
• the initiative aims to provide childcare for children aged six months to six years, enabling working mothers, notably daily wage workers and domestic helpers, to stay in the workforce.
• Delhi has 10,899 existing anganwadi centres offering health check-ups, nutrition support, immunisation services, and preschool education. Though, most are inadequately sized.
• Currently, 200 centres have been upgraded with extended operating hours (until 5 p.m.), rest spaces with beds and toys alongside preschool facilities; efforts are underway for the remaining conversions.
• Government data indicates 4.2 lakh children aged six months-three years and 1.6 lakh children between three-six years are registered as beneficiaries at these centres in Delhi.
• Upgraded creches will employ separate shifts: one set of workers from morning till noon and another from afternoon till evening.
• Financial difficulties persist-the government reportedly halted funding for some NGO-run creches under WCD since June 2023.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The proposed upgrade of anganwadis into anganwadi-cum-creche centres is a meaningful move aimed at addressing childcare needs for working mothers while providing developmental benefits for underprivileged children. this policy demonstrates an effort to balance urban constraints with community needs by expanding both facilities and operating hours.

Though, logistical setbacks remain a concern given space limitations in densely populated areas like slums. While additional funding provisions could mitigate challenges such as cramped spaces or staffing shortages during operational transformations-financial issues affecting existing NGO-run creches highlight potential hurdles.

If successfully implemented across all targeted locations without delays or systemic barriers like inconsistent funding flows-this initiative may bolster economic participation among disadvantaged women while enhancing early childhood education outcomes.Read More