Focus laid on tech-driven solutions for Anganwadi infrastructure in Rajasthan

The strategies for evolving technology-driven solutions to improve the infrastructure of Anganwadi centres in Rajasthan with the corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds were discussed at a workshop here on Friday. Representatives of corporate houses highlighted their innovations for helping out the community hubs for maternal and child health services.

Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who holds the women and child development portfolio, said the CSR funds could play a crucial role in modernisation of Angawandi centres. These centres could be constructed in a few weeks by utilising modern technology for prefabricated structures and containers, she said.

“Tech-driven solutions can facilitate the desired transformation of the infrastructure of dilapidated Anganwadi centres in a short span of time, enabling them to provide grassroots-level services,” Ms. Kumari said.

The State government’s Women and Child Development Department organised the workshop to mobilise the CSR support under “Mission Saksham Anganwadi Evum Poshan 2.0”. The participants threw light on the light gauge steel frame (LGSF) prefabricated structures and container-based formation for Anganwadi centres.

The information was also provided on the Centre’s ‘Pankhudi’ portal, launched on January 8 this year, as an integrated digital platform which facilitates transparent and non-cash CSR contributions towards nutrition, health and education.

Vasudev Malawat, Director, Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Rajasthan, said that out of the 63,000 Anganwadi centres in the State, 3,284 were operating in dilapidated or damaged buildings, while 11,488 were functioning in rented or temporary premises.

Mr. Malawat said the solar-powered, earthquake-resistant ‘Smart Anganwadi centres’ would be established using LGSF technology in a timeframe of just 15 to 21 days to address the issue. An open house discussion was held on the occasion to share experiences and case studies and deliberate on an effective CSR implementation.