In a first of its kind approach, the Ministry has extended childcare services through Anganwadi-cum-Crèches to ensure full-day support for children, ensuring their well-being in a safe and secure environment.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has introduced the Palna Scheme under the Samarthya Vertical of Umbrella Mission Shakti, applicable to all States and Union Territories from April 1, 2022. The scheme aims to provide day care facilities and protection to children.
With the government’s ongoing initiatives in education, skilling, and employment for women, more women are entering the workforce – working both within and outside their homes. Rapid industrialization and urbanization have led to increased migration to cities. Over the past few decades, the rise of nuclear families has also reduced the traditional support system of joint families. Consequently, the need for reliable and quality day care services has become critical.
Often, the lack of proper crèche services prevents women from participating in the workforce. The Palna Scheme addresses this gap by providing day-care and crèche facilities, helping working mothers ensure the safety and care of their children.
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These crèche services help formalize child care responsibilities, which were traditionally considered part of domestic work. This aligns with the “Decent Work Campaign” and supports Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent work and economic growth. It empowers mothers by freeing them from unpaid childcare responsibilities, enabling them to pursue meaningful employment.
India’s Anganwadi Centres are the world’s largest childcare institutions. In a unique move, the Ministry has now expanded their services by launching Anganwadi-cum-Crèches (AWCCs). These centres ensure whole-day childcare in a safe and nurturing environment, and aim to increase women’s participation in the economy.
The Palna Scheme focuses on providing:
- Crèche facilities for children aged 6 months to 6 years
- Nutritional support
- Health and cognitive development
- Growth monitoring
- Immunization
Notably, crèche services under Palna are provided to all mothers, regardless of their employment status.
Under Palna, annual targets are set during Programme Approval Board (PAB) meetings with States and UTs, encouraging them to submit proposals for opening and operating more AWCCs.
During the 15th Finance Cycle (up to FY 2025-26), a total of 17,000 AWCCs have been envisioned for establishment under Palna. Proposals are submitted by State Governments and UT Administrations, who also contribute their share for implementation.