Gujarat Pioneers Gas Connections for Anganwadi Centers: Minister
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Gujarat becomes India's first state to provide gas connections to all Anganwadi centers, promoting a safer cooking environment for children and workers. The initiative, which includes 53,065 centers, aims to enhance health and safety while reducing environmental impact.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat first in India to provide gas connections to Anganwadi centers.
- 53,065 centers now equipped for safer cooking.
- Health and safety priorities for children and workers.
- Regular inspections ensure ongoing safety standards.
- Plans for 607 new Anganwadi-Nand Ghars in 2024.
Gandhinagar, Feb 27 (NationPress) Gujarat has established itself as the first state in India to equip all 53,065 Anganwadi centers with gas connections, as announced by Praful Pansheriya, the Minister of State for Women and Child Development, on Thursday.
During the assembly session, Minister Pansheriya confirmed that every Anganwadi center in Gujarat now has a gas connection, providing a safer and healthier cooking environment for both workers and children.
He highlighted the extensive nature of this initiative, mentioning that Kheda district has received 1,979 gas connections, Gandhinagar 951, Mahisagar 1,316, Aravalli 1,450, and Jamnagar 888 connections across all Anganwadi centers. The government has allocated Rs 6,630 per center to support this program.
Minister Pansheriya emphasized that this initiative prioritizes the health and safety of Anganwadi workers and children.
“Traditional wood-fired cooking methods expose workers and children to smoke, which can lead to respiratory problems and eye irritation. With the introduction of gas connections, these health hazards are significantly reduced, food preparation becomes quicker, and this initiative also aids in environmental protection by cutting down on wood usage,” he stated.
Addressing safety concerns, the minister assured that all essential precautions are being implemented.
He added that regular inspections are conducted, and any identified issues are swiftly addressed to uphold the highest safety standards.
“Gujarat’s forward-thinking approach in executing this scheme underscores its dedication to the well-being of children and Anganwadi workers while serving as a model for other states to emulate,” he claimed.
Furthermore, he announced that as of June 30, 2023, Gujarat has 53,027 operational Anganwadi centers, with 52,289 Anganwadi workers and 45,334 helpers committed to assisting children and mothers in both urban and rural areas.
These centers, crucial to the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) program, provide a variety of services, including nutrition, health care, and early childhood education.
“Their primary goals are to combat malnutrition, lower child mortality rates, and establish a solid foundation for cognitive and social growth. The Gujarat government, in partnership with the Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC), has declared plans to construct 607 new Anganwadi-Nand Ghars in 2024. This initiative aims to offer modern facilities and foster a supportive environment for early childhood development,” he said.
