Yogi Adityanath Highlights Transformation of Anganwadi Centres in UP
During the launch of National Nutrition Month, CM Yogi Adityanath criticized past government neglect of anganwadi centres, linking it to liquor mafia influence.
Over 70,000 anganwadi centres revamped since 2017.
Investment of ₹30 lakh each to improve facilities.
Honorarium for anganwadi workers increased from ₹3,000 to ₹12,000.
In a significant address during the launch of the ninth Rashtriya Poshan Maah in Varanasi, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath condemned the previous government's neglect of anganwadi centres in Uttar Pradesh, attributing the poor conditions to the influence of the liquor mafia before 2017. He emphasized that the state has made substantial improvements in these centres over the past nine-and-a-half years, transforming them into model facilities.
Adityanath stated that prior to 2017, many anganwadi centres were in a dilapidated state, lacking basic amenities such as clean drinking water and sanitation facilities. He revealed that the supply of supplementary nutrition for children was also compromised due to the involvement of liquor mafia figures. The CM noted that his government has invested ₹30 lakh in each centre, resulting in the refurbishment of over 70,000 centres across the state.
The chief minister highlighted the importance of nutrition in child development, asserting that the changes made in the distribution system have ensured transparency and accountability. He pointed out that the previous system often left children without essential nutrition for extended periods, leading to dire conditions at anganwadi centres. Adityanath linked the current improvements to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who initiated foundational changes in 2014.
The implications of these reforms extend beyond immediate benefits for children; they aim to foster healthier families and contribute to a stronger nation. The CM outlined five key themes for this year's campaign, focusing on dietary diversity, community participation, and early childhood development. He also announced that over ₹2,100 crore has been allocated to support mothers through these centres.
Looking ahead, the government plans to continue enhancing the anganwadi system, with approvals for new uniforms for children and increased support for anganwadi workers. The honorarium for these workers has seen a significant rise, now standing at ₹12,000, alongside health insurance provisions. With approximately 1.90 lakh anganwadi centres operational, the government aims to reach 1.56 crore beneficiaries monthly, ensuring that nutrition services are effectively delivered to those in need.
