Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, June 13: Government is contemplating to establish separate directorates for the implementation of the flagship Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in the twin divisions of Kashmir and Jammu.
The new directorates would exclusively take care of ICDS that aims at eradicating malnutrition among the children by providing required nutrition to them through Anganwari Centres established across the State.
Addressing participants at one day awareness-cum-cheque distribution camp organized by the Department of Social Welfare, the Minister for Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo said that the proposal to have separate ICDS directorates was under active consideration of the Government. She said that the step was being taken to streamline the implementation of the flagship scheme meant for the overall wellbeing of child and mother, besides to overcome the problem of mal-nutrition among the children.
Highlighting the role of Anganwari Centres in creating awareness among the people about health, hygiene and childcare, the Minister said that they were also doing a yeoman’s job in anti-female feoticide campaign. She said that falling male-female ratio was assuming alarming dimensions and demands immediate corrective measures.
She called upon the participants to intensify the ‘Save Girl Child’ campaign saying that it would be a great service to the humanity.
Later, the Minister distributed cheques worth Rs 40 Lakh among 350 beneficiaries which include Indira Gandhi Old age, Window and Handicapped Pensioners besides SC women beneficiaries trained in Tailoring under Special Central Assistance (SPA) for Scheduled Cast Population (SCP).
The Minister also distributed sewing machines and tailoring kits among the women trained in tailoring, besides wheelchairs, tricycles and, hearing aids among the persons with special needs.
Among others, Director Social Welfare, M.H. Bhatti, Programme and District Social Welfare Officer, Deputy Directors, CDPOs, supervisors, anganwari workers and prominent citizens were also present on the occasion.
Follow our WhatsApp channel