Mumbai, October 3: Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, has emphasized that the holistic development of women and children is essential for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India). She assured that the central government will extend full cooperation to all states for the effective implementation of welfare schemes in this direction.
### Centre-State Coordination Vital for Flagship Schemes
Speaking during a virtual meeting chaired by her and attended by Women and Child Development Ministers from various states, Annapurna Devi highlighted the need for coordination between the Centre and states to ensure the success of flagship schemes like Mission Vatsalya and Mission Shakti.
### Maharashtra Minister Calls for Stronger Anganwadi Network
Maharashtra’s Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare stressed that increasing the number of Anganwadi centres is crucial for achieving a malnutrition-free state. She also demanded that the Centre provide adequate support for strengthening Anganwadi services and related schemes.
### Key Issues in Scheme Implementation Discussed
During the discussion, several critical issues were addressed to enhance the effectiveness of scheme implementation, including human resource planning, infrastructure development, financial balance, fair wages, reliable NGO participation, and timely release of grants.
### Maharashtra’s Efforts to Curb Social Evils
Tatkare informed that Maharashtra is actively working to prevent child marriages, dowry practices, domestic violence, and sexual harassment. Under the New Education Policy, the state is implementing the “Padhaai Bhi, Poshan Bhi” initiative to integrate education with nutrition.
### Women’s Safety and Empowerment Measures
For women’s safety and empowerment, the state is running initiatives such as One Stop Centres, Women Helpline 181, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and Nari Adalats under Mission Shakti. Tatkare called for enhanced resources, including independent vehicles for district protection units, proper rental facilities, and better support for helplines to boost their effectiveness.
### Innovative State Schemes for Women’s Welfare
Highlighting Maharashtra’s commitment to women’s welfare, Tatkare cited initiatives like the Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, Pink E-Rickshaw scheme, and Adishakti Abhiyan as concrete steps taken by the state.
For the protection and rehabilitation of children under Mission Vatsalya, she emphasized the need for vehicles for district protection units, consistent wages, sufficient funds, and active NGO participation.
### Maharashtra Seeks Centre’s Support for Stronger Impact
“Maharashtra has strong policies and schemes in place for the protection of women and children. With adequate support and funding from the Centre, the state can set a model example for the rest of the country in effective implementation,” Tatkare affirmed.
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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-news-strengthening-anganwadis-and-schemes-essential-for-malnutrition-eradication-says-minister-aditi-tatkare
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