More than 3.80 lakh workers and assistants of the state will

get the benefit, shortage of uniforms will be removed.

Lucknow, 25 October (HS.): Preparations have intensified in

Uttar Pradesh to provide relief to Anganwadi workers and assistants from the

problems they face while working in the prescribed uniform. The state

government has decided to provide an additional saree every year to more than

3.80 lakh Anganwadi workers and assistants working in the department. More than

19 crore rupees will be spent for this. The Women and Child Development

Department is preparing to implement this system. Soon the process of providing

funds for additional sarees will be taken forward.

Leena Johri, Additional Chief Secretary of the Women and

Child Development Department, stated that Anganwadi workers and assistants are

responsible for administering services related to children, pregnant women,

lactating mothers, and adolescent girls at the centers. This requires regular

field visits. Currently, two saris are provided annually under the general

scheme in a 60:40 ratio between the central and state governments. Now,

receiving an additional saris will provide convenience while performing their

duties in the prescribed uniform. This will also alleviate problems such as the

saris becoming dirty, requiring washing, or requiring a replacement due to

inclement weather.

He informed that the state has approved posts for 190,145

Anganwadi centers, with an equal number of workers and assistants. Thus, it has

been decided to provide additional sarees to a total of 380,290 workers. The

government's objective is to improve the operation of services at Anganwadi

centers and ensure the availability of prescribed uniforms for workers and

assistants.

At the rate of Rs 500 per saree, this arrangement is

estimated to cost a total of Rs 19 crore 1 lakh 45 thousand. The decision to

provide additional sarees was made keeping in mind the work-related needs of

the workers and assistants. Now, the Women and Child Development Department is

focused on implementing this arrangement. Once the funds are available and the

distribution process moves forward, Anganwadi workers and assistants across the

state will be able to benefit from it.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi