In a detailed report this week, Clarion India highlighted the plight of Anganwadi workers by shedding light on the difficulties faced by both children and teachers in these centres.
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – The scorching heatwave gripping the national capital presents formidable challenges for Anganwadi workers, who continue their duties despite the closure of centres for children. With a recent directive issued by the Delhi government to close Anganwadi centres from June 1 to June 30, workers find themselves enduring the relentless heat as they fulfill their responsibilities.
In a detailed report this week, Clarion India highlighted the plight of Anganwadi workers by shedding light on the difficulties faced by both children and teachers in these centres.
Bhagyavati, an Anganwadi worker, expressed her distress over the lack of leave amidst the scorching heat. “We do not have any leave. Look… how intense the heat is in Delhi. We are repeatedly requesting leave… but to no avail. I also pleaded for leave. The extreme heat makes it incredibly challenging to commute and carry out our duties,” she said.
While the closure of Anganwadi centres was aimed at providing relief to children from adverse weather conditions, the absence of leave provisions for Anganwadi workers exacerbates their struggles in the sweltering heat.
Priyamvada, a member of the Anganwadi Union, emphasised the need for parity. “We demanded that both children and Anganwadi workers/helpers be granted a holiday. The heat affects everyone.”
Alongside the closure of Anganwadi centres, the Delhi government has initiated doorstep delivery of supplementary nutrition material to the homes of Anganwadi beneficiaries. Women and Child Development Minister Kailash Gehlot underscored the importance of prioritising the health of mothers and children amidst the scorching heat. However, the ongoing plight of Anganwadi workers underscores the necessity for comprehensive measures to ensure their well-being amidst adverse weather conditions.
As Anganwadi workers persevere through the challenges posed by the heatwave, calls for granting them leave and addressing their concerns continue to gather momentum. The Delhi government’s commitment to monitoring compliance with the closure order and ensuring the timely delivery of essential nutrition materials is crucial in safeguarding the health and well-being of all stakeholders amidst the prevailing weather conditions.
