ICDS

        Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) is a vital government initiative in India, launched in 1975 in line with the National Policy for Children. The program offers an array of services, including nutritional meals, preschool education, primary healthcare, immunization, health check-ups, and referral services, targeting children under six years and their mothers.

        Over the years, ICDS has evolved into Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, reflecting its expanded focus and continued commitment to combating malnutrition, the primary aim of the scheme. As one of the largest integrated family and community welfare programs globally, ICDS has played a significant role in improving child health and development.

        In Bihar, a total of 1,15,009 Anganwadi centers are spread across rural and urban areas, with 1,15,009 AWW and 1,15,009 AWH dedicated to their functioning. These AWW and AWH are honorarium-based social workers from the local community, receiving, ₹4,500 and 2,250 respectively, along with a state government top-up of 2,500 for AWW and $1,750 for AWH. They also receive 12 days of paid leave annually and are entitled to maternity leave. The dedication of these workers is crucial to the success of the program.

         Additionally, under social security schemes, AWW and AWH are covered by the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, a one-year renewable life insurance scheme for individuals aged 18-50. The scheme provides 2 lakh in case of death from any cause, with a premium of 436 per annum, paid by the Central and State Governments. Enrollment is done through the account holder's bank, with the premium auto-debited annually.

        Moreover, the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana offers one-year accident insurance for AWW and AWH aged 18-59, covering death or disability due to accidents. The premium is 20 per annum, providing 2 lakh for accidental death, 1 lakh for total disability, and 100,000 for partial disability. The premium is similarly auto-debited from the bank account of the enrolled workers. These social security measures ensure financial protection and support for the Anganwadi workers and their families, enhancing their commitment and effectiveness in delivering ICDS services.

        Recognizing its importance, the Government of India is committed to ensuring the universal availability of ICDS, aiming to reach every child and mother in need across the nation.

• • To improve the nutritional and health status of children in the age-group 0-6 years;

• • To reduce the incidence of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition and school dropout;

• • To lay the foundation for proper psychological, physical and social development of the child;

• • To enhance the capability of the mother to look after the normal health and nutritional needs of the child through proper nutrition and health education.