Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, Rajasthan
Jaipur, 21 June: Rajasthan is exploring technology-led solutions to upgrade Anganwadi infrastructure by leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding, with a focus on accelerating the development of safe, modern, and efficient centres for maternal and child welfare services.
The initiative was discussed at a workshop organised by the State’s Women and Child Development Department under Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, where representatives from leading corporate houses showcased innovative models for strengthening Anganwadi infrastructure across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who also oversees the Women and Child Development portfolio, said CSR funding could play a transformative role in modernising Anganwadi centres. She highlighted the potential of prefabricated structures and container-based facilities, which can be constructed within weeks using advanced building technologies.
“Technology-driven solutions can rapidly transform dilapidated Anganwadi centres and help deliver quality grassroots-level services for women and children,” she said.
The workshop featured presentations on Light Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF) prefabricated structures and container-based Anganwadi models designed for quick deployment and long-term sustainability. Participants also discussed the Centre’s ‘Pankhudi’ portal, launched earlier this year as a digital platform to facilitate transparent, cashless CSR contributions toward nutrition, health, and education initiatives.
According to Vasudev Malawat, Director of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Rajasthan, the state currently operates around 63,000 Anganwadi centres, of which 3,284 are housed in dilapidated or damaged buildings, while 11,488 function from rented or temporary premises.
To address the infrastructure gap, Rajasthan plans to establish solar-powered, earthquake-resistant Smart Anganwadi Centres using LGSF technology, enabling construction within just 15 to 21 days.
The workshop also included an open-house discussion where stakeholders shared experiences, best practices, and case studies, while deliberating on effective CSR implementation strategies to strengthen child development and nutrition infrastructure across the state.
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