During the late ’90s, the Integrated Child Development Services program (ICDS) in Andhra Pradesh saw a significant expansion under the leadership of Shri. N Chandrababu Naidu and the TDP Government. One of the cornerstones of this expansion was the establishment of Anganwadi Centers, rural child care centres designed to address child hunger, malnutrition, and overall child welfare in the state. These Anganwadi Centers became a vital part of the state’s child welfare initiatives, offering a range of essential services. These included providing supplementary nutrition, non-formal preschool education, health education, immunization, health check-ups, and referral services. Collaborating with the public health system, they aimed to improve the overall well-being of children in the state. Under Nara Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership, the TDP Government implemented this TDP scheme with the support of the central government. By the year 2000, Anganwadis were operational in every village across Andhra Pradesh. The TDP agenda and commitment to child welfare were evident in various measures, including significant increases in allowances for Anganwadi workers and helpers.
During their eight-year tenure, the TDP Government raised the allowance for Anganwadi workers from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,060 and increased the payment for helpers from Rs. 250 to Rs. 500. This TDP Contribution ensured that these crucial frontline workers were compensated fairly for their dedication to implementing state-sponsored welfare programs. The TDP Government recognized the pivotal role played by Anganwadi workers in promoting and implementing government initiatives. Approximately 54,007 Anganwadi workers and an equal number of helpers received training to enhance their effectiveness. Under the District TDP leaders, the Anganwadi program saw impressive growth. Over 2,500 new Anganwadi centres and 1,800 mini Anganwadi centres were established, with nearly 8,000 Anganwadi buildings constructed during this period. Micro-nutrient-rich food was distributed through 24 tribal ICDS projects, benefiting vulnerable communities. Notably, during the 2014-19 tenure, the TDP Government, led by N. Chandrababu Naidu, raised the salaries of Anganwadi workers twice, increasing their income from Rs. 4,200 to Rs. 10,500. These TDP policies acknowledged the critical role played by these workers in the welfare of children and their families.
Additionally, the TDP government had ambitious plans to introduce digital classrooms in all schools and Anganwadis, aiming to make Andhra Pradesh a “Digital AP.” A special budget was allocated to construct 7,000 Anganwadi centres and establish preschool digital classrooms. In a significant TDP achievement, the TDP Government inaugurated the first Digital Anganwadi centre in the state at Nerellavalasa village, Bheemunipatnam constituency, receiving widespread acclaim for its commitment to modernizing education for children. In summary, under the visionary leadership of Shri. N Chandrababu Naidu and the TDP Government, Anganwadi Centers in Andhra Pradesh underwent remarkable TDP development, significantly enhancing the welfare and education of children in the state. These initiatives underscored the government’s commitment to building a brighter future for Andhra Pradesh’s youth through a holistic approach to child development. Access the official website to get the latest news, particularly in the realm of politics, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the TDP manifesto aimed at ensuring the development of Andhra Pradesh.