ICDS programme only "half done", says Prakash Karat

New Delhi, July 31 (UNI) CPI(M) general secretary Prakash Karat today said that though the UPA government had taken a very good step by announcing the universalisation of Integrated Child Development Services Scheme (ICDS) in its NCMP, the process is "still half done".

Addressing an ongoing dharna by anganwadi workers here, Mr Karat said even today, only around one third of the country's 16 crore children are covered under ICDS, which is a unique programme to ensure the Right to Food, health and Education for children. The anganwadi workers associated with the ICDS, had been agitating for the fulfilment of their demands including opening of anganwadi centres in all human habitations as per the supreme court's orders.

They said more then 14 lakh women working under this scheme for the past 30 years were being paid a paltry Rs 1000 for workers and Rs 500 for helpers. This should be hiked to Rs 3000 and Rs 2000 respectively along with social security benefits like Provident Fund and pension.

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