Jaipur, March 30 (NationPress) On Monday, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma unveiled a significant program aimed at supporting Anganwadi workers and helpers by transferring Rs 1,000 directly into the bank accounts of 1.22 lakh beneficiaries through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. This funding is intended to assist with the purchase of two uniforms.

The announcement occurred during an event at the Chief Minister’s Residence.

Additionally, the Chief Minister distributed cheques to beneficiaries of various schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, Lado Protsahan Yojana, and Kalibai Bhil Yojana.

In his address, Sharma underscored the vital role that Anganwadi workers play in nurturing young children and fortifying the nation’s foundation. He noted that the state government has implemented numerous measures over the past two years to enhance Anganwadi services.

Sharma also announced a 10 percent increase in the honorarium for Anganwadi workers, helpers, and Mid-Day Meal cooks-cum-helpers, effective from April 1, 2026. Under the Amrit Aahar Yojana, children aged 3 to 6 years will receive hot milk five days a week at Anganwadi centers.

Furthermore, renovations of Anganwadi buildings are currently in progress, with smartphones having been distributed to workers and supervisors. Plans are also in place to provide free eye check-ups and spectacles soon.

The Chief Minister encouraged Anganwadi workers to share their suggestions for the Chief Minister’s Developed Village–Ward Campaign, which runs from March 19 to May 15. This initiative aims to develop a roadmap for progress in all Gram Panchayats and urban wards, reflecting local needs and aspirations, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a self-reliant and empowered India.

Sharma reiterated that the development of both the state and the nation is closely tied to women’s empowerment. He mentioned that over 16 lakh women have achieved financial independence through the Lakhpati Didi scheme, with the government planning to raise the loan limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh in the current budget.

In addition, women involved in animal husbandry are now eligible for a subsidy of Rs 5 per litre on milk, while programs like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and Ma Voucher Yojana continue to promote women’s welfare.

Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari also spoke at the event, highlighting the essential contributions of Anganwadi workers in shaping children’s futures. She noted that initiatives such as Lakhpati Didi, Solar Didi, and Bank Sakhi are fostering both economic and social empowerment for women.

Diya Kumari emphasized that the state government prioritizes women’s education, skill development, and safety.

During the event, the Chief Minister also introduced the annual activity calendar for Anganwadi centers.

Present at the event were Minister of State for Women and Child Development Manju Baghmar, Department Secretary Poonam, senior officials, and a large contingent of Anganwadi workers and helpers.