Heat wave in Odisha: Anganwandi centre timings revised

With the rising temperatures, the Odisha govt authorities have rolled out new guidelines ensuring the well-being of children at Anganwadi centres. These centres, which provide crucial early childhood education and nutrition, will operate from 07:00 AM to 09:00 AM to mitigate heat exposure.

Directive to All Collectors

The changes were communicated by the Department of Women and Child Development in a letter to all Collectors. 

“In case, it is not possible due to heat wave conditions, dry ration to be provided to the beneficiaries and AWCs may remain closed during the period. Necessary instruction in this regard to be circulated to all ICDS field functionaries for scrupulous adherence,” read the letter from the Department of Women and Child Development.

Deputy CM Pravati Parida also took to her X handle to communicate the revised timings citing that the decision has been taken keeping in mind the heat wave and the well-being of the students.

Detailed Timings

The timings have been revised for Anganwadi centres operating from their own buildings and the ones functioning from school classrooms.

For Anganwadi centres functioning from own building, the timings have been changed to 07:00AM to 09:00 AM from the normal timings of 09.00 AM to 02.00 PM. 07.00 AM to 09.00 AM

For Anganwadi centres functioning in school classrooms, the timings are revised to 07:00AM to 09:00 AM from the normal timings of 07.00 AM to 12.00 PM.

Anganwadi centres, a vital element of India's Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), play a significant role in fostering child growth and learning. The decision to alter timings underscores the commitment to safeguard young Indians against the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions.