Minister for Social Welfare Sajad Gani Lone informed the House that the Centre has sanctioned 3,361 new Anganwari centres for which the locations are being finalized as per feasibility across the state.
Replying to a question of Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo, the Minister informed that during 2015-16, Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama had constituted a Committee comprising members from Health, Food Safety, CA&PD and Revenue Departments to ascertain the veracity of news item related to allegedly serving substandard food items in the Anganwari centres. The Committee on verification has found the allegations baseless, he added.
The Minister said the government has centralized the process of purchasing nutrition items and the NGOs would also be roped in that provide quality food on subsidized rates.
He further said the proposal regarding enhancement of honorarium of Rs. 500 each to Anganwari worker and helper per month is under consideration of the government.(KNO)