Publication:

A study to assess availability of basic infrastructure of anganwadi centers in a rural area

Background The integrated child development service (ICDS) was launched on 2nd October, 1975 as an effort to meet the holistic needs of children below 6 years, adolescent girls, expectant and nursing mothers through the network of anganwadis. Purpose of the study was to assess the availability of basic infrastructure for AWCs under ICDS.

Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in 21 AWCs in Sondekoppa area, rural field practice area of Bangalore medical college and research institute, Bangalore, India.

Results All anganwadi centers were found to be located within the village locality, favouring easy access for the beneficiaries. 17(81%) AWCs were functioning in government allotted buildings. Compound wall or fence all around the anganwadis were found to be present in only 10 (47.6%) centers. Toilet facilities were found to be present in 12(57.1%) centers. When cleanliness of room and kitchen was assessed, it was found to be good in 13 (61.9%) centers. Assessment of area surrounding the anganwadi centers revealed that 12 (52.1%) centers were free from any nuisance causing factors around.

Conclusions Since anganwadi centre is nodal point for service delivery under ICDS programme, infrastructures like toilet facilities were found to be present in 57.1%, cleanliness of room and kitchen was assessed, it was found to be good in 61.9%.