PM meets Anganwadi workers, says they play key role in child's development

A group of over 100 Anganwadi workers from across the country called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to thank him for increasing their honorarium and other incentives.

According to a statement from the PMO, the prime minister emphasised on the importance of nutrition in a child's physical and cognitive development and the Anganwadi workers have a key role to play in a child's development.

Referring to the ongoing 'Poshan Maah' (nutrition month), Modi said the momentum that has been built during this campaign should not slow down.

Nutrition requires constant focus and development of good habits, which can be provided by Anganwadi workers, he said and exhorted them to ensure that the nutritional assistance being made available to beneficiaries is used judiciously.

According to the statement, the prime minister encouraged healthy competition among Anganwadis as a motivation for better nutritional care and efforts among various workers.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Wednesday approved an increase in the honorarium for Anganwadi and Asha workers which will become effective next month.

The prime minister had announced the hike in monthly honorariums for Anganwadi and Asha workers on September 11.

Anganwadi workers receiving Rs 3,000 per month will now get Rs 4,500. Similarly, those at mini-Anganwadi centres receiving Rs 2,200 per month will now get Rs 3,500.

The honorarium for Anganwadi helpers has also been increased from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,250 per month, the Cabinet said in a statement.

Anganwadi workers and helpers using techniques such as common application software (ICDS-CAS) will get additional performance-based incentives ranging between Rs 250 and Rs 500.