Publication:

Assessing beneficiary and parental perception of Integrated Child Development Services Scheme in Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir

Background The study addresses the beneficiaries and parents’ satisfaction on health services provided at integrated child development services (ICDS) Scheme in Pulwama District, of Jammu and Kashmir, union territory (UT). The current study examines the level of satisfaction among the beneficiaries and parents with ICDS health services component in Pulwama, with a focus on service accessibility, quality of services, and overall beneficiary perception.

Methods The study was conducted in all the five blocks of ICDS Pulwama, which included a sample of the parents of below six-year-old beneficiaries and the female beneficiaries such as pregnant women and lactating mothers. The data was collected through sampling of the Anganwadi centres (AWCs) using convenience sampling technique, where structured interviewing process was carried out. The study utilized a mixed methodology.

Results The findings of the study indicate 86% of parents and 83% of female beneficiaries reported satisfaction with food quality. The 92% parents and 86% female beneficiaries viewed immunization as helpful and 76% parents and 78% of female beneficiaries expressed satisfaction with health check-ups. However, there are certain aspects that require rapid redress such as irregular service delivery, logistical barriers and impediments as well as inadequate staff training.

Conclusions The research findings indicate the need to emphasis on the enhancement of functional effectiveness of ICDS, enhancement of ICDS staff and ensuring consistent availability of essential resources. The study advises target interventions towards filling the gaps and gaps thus allowing ICDS scheme to become more resilient and responsive as a public health initiative in districts like Pulwama.