An Assessment of Facilities and Services at Anganwadi Centres under the Integrated Child Development Service Scheme in Hanur, Chamrajnagar District, India

Background: Early childhood is one of the most sensitive areas in human development. The ICDS takes care of nutrition and early learning through the anganwadis. The study aims at looking into the needs of the anganwadis, according to the ICDS standards and then recommending the same to the governing bodies. Methodology: This is cross sectional study done in 22 anganwadis of Hanur taluk of Chamrajnagar, for a duration of 3 months (June-August 2023). The ICDS standard questionnaire was used to assess the gaps of anganwadis through interview and inspection. A discussion with anganwadis workers helped us find their needs. Results: Out of the 22 anganwadis surveyed, >50% of the angnawadis were in rented buildings. 59% of the anganwadis didn’t have their own toilets. There was significant association between gram panchayats and water proofing of the anganwadis. The primary concerns of the anganwadi workers was too less compensation for the work which was done. Conclusion: A community awareness and grassroot approach will help in rectifying the errors more quickly. With local participation and decentralised approach the anganwadis can be a better place for early child development.