KOCHI: The absence of own buildings continues to undermine the operations of Anganwadis in the district, with majority of them functioning out of rented facilities with limited space, exposing children to safety hazards.
The recent incident in which a gas cylinder kept in a single-room Anganwadi in the city caught fire while food was being cooked for children throws light on the constraints under which Anganwadis are operated. Luckily, a major tragedy was averted thanks to the timely intervention by the fire force.
According to norms, Anganwadis should have their own buildings with a built-up space of 600 sq.ft. with a classroom, kitchen, store room, toilet, and a separate room for children to take a nap.
However, going by Social Justice Department figures, 60 per cent of Anganwadis continue to be operated out of rented buildings. Even that remains a challenge, thanks to the Centre’s abysmally low provision towards rent — ₹3,000 and ₹750 in urban and rural areas respectively. Till a year ago, it was even more pathetic, with the provision being ₹1,000 and ₹200 respectively.
Local bodies can bridge this monetary gap by renting better buildings. But not many are willing though. Consequently, Anganwadis often are forced to settle for smaller buildings, and, in many cases, a single room, though it is a clear violation of government norms. Even when funds are made available for construction of buildings, prohibitive land value pours cold water on the plans.
Despite being aware of these practical difficulties, even Social Justice Department officials tend to ignore compromises made by Anganwadis.
“Despite resource crunch, the corporation can help Anganwadis as a look at wastage of plan fund leading to spillover every year would validate,” said Poornima Narayan, chairperson of the education standing committee of the Kochi Corporation.
She added that any assistance should not stop with a mere budgetary or plan fund allocation. “There should be an effective monitoring mechanism. Often the authorities are under the impression that their responsibility ends with the inauguration of Anganwadis,” Ms. Narayan said.
Meanwhile, efforts are on to enhance the honorarium of Anganwadi workers and helpers to ₹10,000 and ₹7000 respectively with contributions from local bodies. The Centre has been allocating ₹3,000 and ₹1,500 towards payment of honorarium, and the State government ₹2,600 each for payments to workers and helpers. Some local bodies have already made plan fund allocations towards this effect.
