The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, operational since 1975 in Nagaland, aims to provide essential services Read More... for the holistic development of young children and mothers across India through a network of Anganwadi centres. Read less
Details
The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme is a crucial government initiative focused on the well-being of India's youngest citizens and their mothers. Launched in Nagaland in 1975, it has expanded significantly, now operating across numerous districts through a vast network of Anganwadi centres.
ICDS is a flagship program designed to deliver a bundle of essential services aimed at child development, health, and nutrition. These services are provided through Anganwadi centres, which are community-based childcare facilities primarily managed by frontline workers. The scheme also leverages technology like the Poshan Tracker app for better beneficiary and service management.
The ICDS scheme targets a wide demographic, ensuring comprehensive support for vulnerable groups. This includes children from birth up to six years of age, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and adolescent girls.
The core purpose of ICDS is to create a strong foundation for children's development by addressing critical areas like nutrition, health, and early education. By focusing on these aspects, the scheme strives to reduce child mortality, morbidity, and malnutrition, while also promoting better maternal health and enabling mothers to care for their children effectively. It also aims to improve school readiness and reduce dropout rates, contributing to a healthier and more educated future generation.
Objective
Benefits
Provision of Subsidy:
Tractor Unit:
Each tractor unit shall consist of one tractor (35 to 50 HP) with standard accessories and Matching Implements
(as opted by beneficiary group) as follows -
Choice of the Applicant Groups:
All the applicant groups who have already applied for the tractor unit will be required to furnish their choice as under:
a) Whether they will avail bank finance for the beneficiary share: Yes/No.
b) Name of the brand and model out of the list notified by the State Govt.
c) Names of the implements out of the 5 (five) implements.
(NOTE: The applicant group is free to choose all/any/none of the implements. The subsidy at the rate of 70% will be available to the applicant group on the total cost of the tractor unit so opted subject to a maximum of ₹ 5,50,000.)
Duration of Service:
The group shall be liable to provide tractor units (fully or partially as per the need of the farmer) to the farmers of the village on a rental basis for a minimum period of five years at a reasonable rate which may be fixed by the District Level Committee (DLC).
Sources and references
The following individuals are eligible to receive services under the Integrated Child Development Services Scheme:
Services under the ICDS scheme are primarily delivered through a widespread network of Anganwadi centres. These centres are established in communities, especially in rural areas, and are managed by Anganwadi Workers (AWWs). The POSHAN Tracker management application helps in providing a complete overview of Anganwadi centre activities, service delivery, and beneficiary management.
The POSHAN Tracker App is managed by the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), with a State Coordinator located at the Social Welfare Directorate.
While specific documentation requirements can vary, generally, individuals seeking services or Anganwadi workers managing the program might need:
What are the main goals of the ICDS scheme?
The scheme aims to significantly improve the nutritional and health status of children under 6 years, lay the groundwork for their psychological, physical, and social development, and reduce instances of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition, and school dropout rates.
How does ICDS help mothers?
ICDS empowers mothers by enhancing their capability to manage the child's health and nutritional needs through focused nutrition and health education. It also provides nutritional support during pregnancy and lactation.
Who are the primary beneficiaries of this scheme?
The primary beneficiaries include children up to 6 years old, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Adolescent girls aged 14-18 years are also included.
How are the ICDS services provided to people?
These essential services are delivered through a network of Anganwadi centres, which are community-based facilities staffed by frontline workers, primarily in rural areas.
What specific services does the ICDS scheme offer?
The scheme provides a package of six key services: supplementary nutrition, immunization, health check-ups, referral services, non-formal pre-school education, and nutrition and health education.
What is the objective related to child development within the ICDS scheme?
A key objective is to establish the fundamental basis for the proper psychological, physical, and social development of young children.
What is the scheme trying to reduce in children's health?
The scheme actively works to reduce the incidence of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition, and school dropout rates among children.
Are there any specific age groups for adolescent girls covered?
Yes, adolescent girls aged 14 to 18 years are eligible beneficiaries under the scheme.