Early Times Report
JAMMU, June 13: The Jammu and Kashmir government is contemplating to establish separate directorates for the implementation of the flagship Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in the twin divisions of Kashmir and Jammu.
The New Directorates would exclusively take care of the child service ICDS scheme that aims at eradicating malnutrition among the children by providing required nutrition to them through Anganwari Centres established across the state.
Addressing participants at one day awareness-cum-Cheque Distribution Camp organized by the Department of Social Welfare Jammu here today, the Minister for Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo said that the proposal to have separate ICDS directorates was under active consideration of the Government. She said that the step was being taken to streamline the implementation of the flagship scheme meant for the overall wellbeing of child and mother, besides to overcome the problem of mal-nutrition among the children.
Highlighting the role of Anganwari Centres in creating awareness among the people about health, hygiene and childcare, the Minister said that they were also doing a yeoman’s job in anti-female feoticide campaign. She said that falling male-female ratio was assuming alarming dimensions and demands immediate corrective measures.
She called upon the participants to intensify the ‘Save Girl Child’ campaign saying that it would be a great service to the humanity.
She said that there was a need to change the social mind set about the girl child adding that the parents should understand that today women have achieved the highest positions and are working in every field with men. She made a mention of great women of the World and said India has produced towering women leaders like Indira Gandhi, Jhansi ki Rani, Kalpana Chawal and many others.
Later, the Minister distributed cheques worth Rs 40 Lakh among 350 beneficiaries which include Indira Gandhi Old age, Window and Handicapped Pensioners besides SC women beneficiaries trained in Tailoring under Special Central Assistance (SPA) for Scheduled Cast Population (SCP).
The Minister also distributed Sewing machines and Tailoring kits among the women trained in Tailoring, besides wheelchairs, Tricycles and, hearing aids among the persons with special needs.
Earlier, a scintillating cultural programme was also presented by the artists of Information department and Anganwari workers featuring, awareness skits, folk music and dance.
The programme was highly appreciated by the participants, particularly the skits presented by the Anganwari workers to spread the message against female foeticide.
Among others, Director Social Welfare, Mr. M.H. Bhatti, Programme and District Social Welfare officer, Deputy Directors, CDPOs, supervisors, anganwari workers and prominent citizens were also present on the occasion. |
