Punjab CM meets Maneka Gandhi, discusses issues relating to women and children

Union Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi on Thursday met Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal.

The meeting focussed on the welfare of women in the state and steps that can be taken to help them.

"We had a chat about Punjab and what we can do together for women and children in the state. The chief minister emphasised on the need for a change in Anganwadi centres. So, we are ready to bring a change in these centres.

On the issue of sexual harassment of children, Maneka said, "We will be setting up Rape Crisis Centres in Punjab also. As far as the kids who are in children's home, we will be starting foster care scheme. Under this scheme kids will be sent to people's homes instead of children's home."

Badal said that Anganwadi workers and helpers are getting just Rs.3000 and Rs. 1500 respectively which is very less.

"I have asked her to give Rs. 8000 to workers and Rs. 4000 to helpers. We also want contributory pension for them," said Badal.

He said the state government will provide free land to centre for setting up Rape Crisis Centres.