Jaipur: Chief Secretary V. Srinivas on Thursday presided over a meeting of the State Empowered Programme Committee to evaluate the progress of key initiatives under the Department of Women and Child Development. The schemes reviewed included ‘Saksham Anganwadi’, ‘Poshan 2.0’, and ‘Mission Shakti’, which fall under the Directorate of ICDS and the Directorate of Women Empowerment.
Directives on Lado Scheme Portal
The chief secretary directed officials to upgrade and improve the portal for the ‘Lado Scheme’. He instructed that a separate meeting be convened with the education department and other relevant departments to take necessary action. He further directed officials to examine the ‘Vidya Samiksha Kendra’ portal as a reference point for this improvement.
Co-location of Anganwadi Centres
He directed that the process of co-locating anganwadi centres currently operating across the state with nearby government schools be expedited. This move aims to enhance resource sharing and accessibility.
Training and Webinars for Anganwadi Workers
Instructions were issued to provide regular training to ‘Champion Anganwadi Workers’ regarding departmental schemes and to organise regular webinars for them. This is intended to keep workers updated and improve service delivery.
Increasing Father Participation
The chief secretary directed that efforts be made to increase the participation of fathers in Parent-Worker Meetings (PAM) held at anganwadi centres. This step seeks to promote greater family involvement in child development.
Infrastructure Enhancement
He also directed that progress be achieved in enhancing basic infrastructure facilities at anganwadi centres through convergence and collaboration with relevant departments.
Compliance with Central Directives
The chief secretary emphasised that instructions issued by the Government of India during the 5th National Conference of Chief Secretaries, held in New Delhi, must be strictly adhered to. He directed the formulation of a comprehensive action plan for this purpose. Furthermore, he instructed that timely responses be sent to all communications received from the Government of India.
Coordination and Quality Assurance
The chief secretary issued directives to enhance coordination with other departments relevant to the schemes operated by the Department of Women and Child Development. This ensures that the intended benefits of these initiatives reach beneficiaries in a timely and effective manner. He also directed officials to inspect the ‘One Stop Centres’ and ensure the quality of services provided there.
