5,000 Mini-Anganwadis Upgraded to Boost Child Welfare

Minister for Housing and I&PR, Kolusu Parthasarathy, announced on Sunday that the coalition government has upgraded 5,000 mini-anganwadi centres into full-fledged facilities as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen women and child welfare in the district.

Speaking to the media, the Minister said the government is transforming anganwadi centres into pre-primary schools while enhancing infrastructure and service delivery across the State.

He highlighted the provision of nutritious meals to children and women, the construction of dedicated buildings, and the supply of basic amenities such as safe drinking water and toilets to improve hygiene standards. “These welfare initiatives have contributed to a significant decline in maternal and infant mortality rates,” he added.

Parthasarathy also detailed the modernisation of centres, which now feature televisions, RO water units, toys, charts, induction stoves, and quality cooking utensils. A total of ₹86.68 lakh has been spent on installing drinking water and toilet facilities.

In a major digital push, the government spent around ₹75 crore to provide 5G-enabled smartphones to 58,204 anganwadi teachers, aimed at improving service delivery for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.

Several long-standing demands of the teachers have been addressed, with salaries now credited on the first of every month. Mini-anganwadi workers have been promoted to teachers, salaries have been increased twice, and 15 days of summer vacation have been granted, recognising their critical role in women and child welfare.