ICDS at 50: Evolution and Challenges in Child Development Services

Marking the milestone of 50 years since the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) was launched by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed concerns over the scheme's governance. Despite its rebranding as Mission Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0, Ramesh argued that significant improvements are still required to meet its objectives.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Women and Child Development, chaired by Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, has put forward crucial recommendations to bolster the ICDS. These recommendations include doubling the wages of anganwadi workers and helpers, an initiative outlined by the Congress in its 'Nyay Patra' for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Furthermore, the Congress advocates for increased funding, adjustments in anganwadi cost norms, and the provision of hot-cooked meals for beneficiaries. They also urge expanding anganwadi services to include day-care and creche facilities for children over six months, reflecting the projected population growth by 2025.