Anganwadi Workers Rally Against Tech and Election Duties

The Karnataka State Federation of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers is set to protest against the implementation of a face recognition system in anganwadi centers and their deployment as booth level officers during upcoming elections.

Scheduled for July 26 at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, the demonstration opposes a system that uses mobile phones to validate beneficiaries during food distribution. This system, part of the Poshan Abhiyaan program, faces criticism over issues like unreliable mobile connectivity and verification challenges, particularly impacting working parents.

The federation, affiliated with the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), also calls on the Election Commission to relieve anganwadi workers of election duties, citing already overwhelming workloads. The Poshan Abhiyaan aims to tackle malnutrition among children, adolescents, and pregnant and lactating women.

(With inputs from agencies.)