Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday announced that the state government will recruit over 5,000 Anganwadi workers and 60,000 helpers this year. He confirmed that the recruitment process has already begun.
Boost to Social Security and Insurance Coverage
Speaking at an event held at Lok Bhavan, the Chief Minister highlighted steps taken to strengthen social security for Anganwadi workers and helpers. They have been linked to key government schemes such as:
- Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
Additionally, under Ayushman Bharat, more than 3 lakh workers are receiving health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh annually.
Focus on Transparency in Recruitment
Taking aim at pre-2017 systems, the Chief Minister alleged irregularities in nutrition supplement distribution and lack of benefit delivery to eligible beneficiaries. He asserted that the current government has ensured transparency, adding that:
- Recruitment is now merit-based
- Leakages in welfare delivery have been eliminated
Digital Monitoring and Smartphone Distribution
The state government is digitizing nutrition and child development programs. As part of this initiative:
- Anganwadi workers will be provided smartphones
- Real-time data collection and monitoring will be enabled
- Scheme implementation will become more efficient and transparent
Integration with National Education Policy
The Chief Minister said Anganwadi centres will play a crucial role under the National Education Policy 2020:
- Pre-primary classes for children aged 3–5 years will be conducted at Anganwadi centres
- Around 27,000 primary education centres will be integrated with the Anganwadi network
New Infrastructure and Project Launches
To strengthen infrastructure:
- New Anganwadi centres will be constructed at a cost of ₹137 crore
- Projects worth ₹313 crore were inaugurated during the event
Praise for Frontline Workers During COVID-19
The Chief Minister also lauded Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and ANMs for their crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging their contribution in ensuring grassroots-level healthcare services.
