THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, Dec 13: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shashi Ranjan has introduced a series of measures to make Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) more effective and child- and woman-friendly. The DC emphasised that AWCs should not merely be stopovers for mothers and children but should become vibrant, well-functioning spaces.
These measures were introduced following a review of the Social Welfare Office’s performance by Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC) Shabbir Ahmad, who also serves as the nodal officer for the Social Welfare Office.
Addressing vacancies in Anganwadi Centres
The review highlighted the urgent need to fill vacant positions for Anganwadi Sewikas (workers) and Sahaikas (helpers). Currently, 82 Sewika positions and 469 Sahaika positions are vacant across Palamu. DDC Shabbir Ahmad emphasised that these vacancies must be filled on a priority basis.
DC Shashi Ranjan instructed District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) Neeta Chouhan to expedite the recruitment process for these positions.
Regular monitoring to prevent malpractices
DDC Shabbir Ahmad stressed the importance of consistent monitoring to improve the performance of AWCs and to curb malpractices. “Regular inspections will ensure better functioning and reduce irregularities,” he said.
DSWO Neeta Chouhan, speaking to The Jharkhand Story correspondent, stated, “We are committed to improving the services provided by the Anganwadi Centres. Monitoring efforts will be intensified without any laxity.”
Chouhan added that monitoring activities were disrupted during November due to the elections but would now resume in full swing.
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Mandatory inspections of Anganwadi Centres
DDC Shabbir Ahmad reminded that lady supervisors are required to inspect at least 50% of the AWCs under their jurisdiction every month. He urged them to avoid any complacency in meeting this mandate.
“There are 2,595 Anganwadi Centres in Palamu, with 30 more centres soon to be added,” said DSWO Chouhan. She also noted that the district has 33 lady supervisors, although four are currently on deputation.
Additionally, there is only one full-time Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) in the district. The remaining 13 CDPO positions are held as additional responsibilities by Block Development Officers (BDOs) or Circle Officers (COs).
Increasing footfall and reducing malpractices
One of the major challenges identified is the low attendance of mothers and children at AWCs. DDC Shabbir Ahmad pointed out that on any given day, only around half of the expected 30 beneficiaries visit the centres.
The DC has directed the DSWO to ensure higher attendance at AWCs. “Low attendance creates opportunities for malpractice, especially regarding the distribution of take-home rations. Increasing footfall will significantly curb these issues,” the DDC noted.
Steps are also being taken to improve the management of supplementary nutrition to ensure that it reaches the intended beneficiaries.
DSWO Chouhan assured that all necessary efforts would be made to increase attendance and improve services at the AWCs.
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Background: Swift action post shelter home scandal
The District Social Welfare Office has recently faced public scrutiny due to the exposure of a sex racket in a girls’ shelter home. However, prompt action by the civil and police administration helped contain the fallout and prevent the situation from worsening.
