Did the Centre Approve 14,599 Anganwadi Cum Creches Under the Palna Scheme?
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Synopsis
In a significant move to enhance early childhood care and support, the government has approved 14,599 anganwadi cum creches under the Palna Scheme. This initiative not only ensures daily childcare but also aims to boost women's participation in the workforce. Discover how this scheme is set to transform childcare services across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- 14,599 anganwadi cum creches approved under the Palna Scheme.
- The scheme aims to enhance childcare facilities across the country.
- Focus on supporting women's workforce participation.
- All mothers can access these creche services.
- Significant step towards gender equity in the workforce.
New Delhi, July 23 (NationPress) The government has granted approval for 14,599 anganwadi cum creches under the Palna Scheme, aimed at offering day care facilities and safeguarding children, as reported to Parliament on Wednesday.
The Palna Scheme was initiated by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in April 2022.
According to the Minister of State for Women and Child Development, Savitri Thakur, during the 15th Finance Cycle, which extends to FY 2025-26, a total of 17,000 Aganwadi-cum-Creches (AWCCs) are planned for establishment under this scheme. This information was shared during a question in the Rajya Sabha.
Thakur confirmed that, as of now, the Ministry has approved 14,599 AWCCs based on proposals received from various States/UTs.
Anganwadi centres represent the largest childcare network globally, dedicated to delivering essential care and support to children, ensuring services reach even the most remote areas.
The anganwadi cum creche provides all-day childcare support, ensuring children's well-being in a secure environment.
This initiative also strives to enhance women's workforce participation in the economy.
The Palna Scheme aims to ensure quality crèche facilities in a safe environment for children aged 6 months to 6 years, along with nutritional support, health and cognitive development, growth monitoring, and immunization, Thakur elaborated.
She emphasized that creche facilities under Palna are accessible to all mothers, regardless of their employment status.
This scheme additionally assists working women in urban areas who previously relied on joint family support while at work and are now in need of dependable day care services that guarantee quality care and protection for their children.
The minister remarked, 'The absence of adequate day-care services often hinders women from pursuing employment.' She highlighted the urgent necessity for enhanced quality and accessibility of day care services/crèches for working women across all socioeconomic groups, both in organized and unorganized sectors.
The Minister of State noted that formalizing care work supports the 'decent work campaign', contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent work and economic growth.
Thakur concluded, 'This will empower more mothers, freeing them from unpaid childcare responsibilities, allowing them to seek gainful employment.'
Point of View
I firmly believe that the approval of 14,599 anganwadi cum creches under the Palna Scheme reflects the government's commitment to improving childcare services. This initiative will not only enhance the safety and development of children but also empower working women, thereby fostering greater economic participation. It is a step in the right direction for achieving gender equity and supporting families across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
NationPress
24/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Palna Scheme?
The Palna Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in April 2022, aims to provide day care facilities and support for children aged 6 months to 6 years.
How many anganwadi cum creches have been approved?
The government has approved a total of 14,599 anganwadi cum creches under the Palna Scheme.
Who can access the crèche facilities?
Creche facilities under the Palna Scheme are available to all mothers, regardless of their employment status.
Why are day-care services important for women?
Day-care services are crucial as they provide support for working women, allowing them to pursue employment without the burden of unpaid childcare responsibilities.
What are the goals of the Palna Scheme?
The goals include providing quality childcare, nutritional support, health and cognitive development for children, and increasing women's workforce participation.
