Project Society for Rural Agriculturalists and Mass Awareness (SRAMA)

Anganwadi centers are the backbone of rural communities, providing essential education and nutrition for children under 6 years old. These centers play a vital role in addressing malnutrition and meeting the needs of pregnant and lactating mothers, fostering the holistic growth and development of children.

There are 61 Anganwadi centers where the project operates. However, out of these centers, 44 are currently operating in rented buildings. The lack of spacious classrooms for children aged 3 to 6 in these rented facilities hampers their educational development and access to nutritional services. Basic amenities like toilets, drinking water, and spacious play areas are also lacking, making it difficult for the children to stay comfortably. Moreover, the absence of a separate kitchen shed poses challenges for meal preparation. The subpar conditions in these rented centers hinder the mental and physical development of the children.

The issue extends beyond the children, impacting the community and target group in various ways. The limited space prevents Anganwadi workers from implementing curriculum activities effectively, leading to a decrease in children’s attendance. Community members’ participation in Anganwadi activities is also greatly affected, with some opting to enroll their children in private nurseries with higher fees. If these problems persist, the Anganwadi system risks losing the trust of the community.

In response, the team has taken up the challenge to address this issue. They have conducted an analysis of the infrastructural issues in the 44 rented Anganwadi centers, documenting their findings accurately. The mothers’ committees from these villages have been reactivated and strengthened through capacity-building initiatives. Additionally, discussions involving Anganwadi workers, community-based organizations (CBOs), and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) have taken place. The team has facilitated the submission of representations by CBOs, PRIs, and community members to the mandal and district-level authorities.

As a result of these efforts, six Anganwadi centers that were operating in congested rented buildings have been relocated to more spacious facilities. Separate kitchen rooms, playgrounds, and drinking water facilities are now available. A total of 61 children aged 3-6 have benefited from these interventions, along with 19 pregnant women and 25 lactating mothers. The community members and CBOs have gained confidence and expressed their willingness to engage in government activities, aiming to construct Anganwadi centers in their villages. Panchayat presidents have agreed to allocate land, and resolutions are expected to be passed soon. The government has also expressed its willingness to allocate the necessary budget once the Panchayat sanctions the land.

Through these initiatives, the team has made significant progress in improving the conditions of Anganwadi centers, ensuring a better future for the children and community members they serve.