The Odisha Government approved an Annual Programme Implementation Plan (APIP) of around Rs 2,548.37 crore for integrated child development services (ICDS) for 2021-22 which was confirmed in the State level empowered committee meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra.
According to the report, Rs 2,341.43 crore has been authorized for Anganwadi services including supplementary nutrition and uniform medicine kits for children, Rs 7.42 crore for the care of adolescent girls in the age group of 11-14 years, and Rs 199.52 crore for the Poshan program as per the APIP program.
Apart from that Rs, 1.1 Lakh per project is provided for the supply of iron-folic acid supplement, health check-up and referral services, nutrition and health education, mainstreaming out of school girls to join formal schooling through bridge course, skill training, life skill education, home management, counseling/guidance on entering public services.
Principal Secretary of Women and Child Development Anu Garg stated that all four major programs which are known as Sakshyam Anganwadi services supplementary nutrition, scheme for adolescent girls, and Poshan are being implemented through 338 ICDS projects with fund sharing between State and Central government.
Around 35.08 lakh children, 7.32 lakh pregnant and lactating women, and 13,082 adolescent girls are being served through Anganwadi centers, said Director (Social Welfare) Aravind Agrawal.
Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra also directed the department to ensure safe electricity, toilet, drinking water, and learning through playing facilities for the children which will emphasize the need to develop anganwadis to a higher level through specific plans.
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