AI SummaryIntegrated Child Development Services provides a complete package of early childhood care, including nutrition, healthcare, and immunization, to support children aged 0-6 years, pregnant women, and lactating mothers across the nation. The scheme is still open for eligible families in Chandigarh, and enrollment continues through local Anganwadi centres.
Integrated Child Development Services - Introduction
Integrated Child Development Services is a main scheme by the government to support healthy growth in young children and expecting mothers. Launched on 2nd October 1975, this scheme focuses on early childhood care and development to break the cycles of malnutrition and poor health.
This scheme addresses critical needs by offering pre-school education and essential health services. It supports at risk groups, including children aged 0-6 years, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. For instance, if Meena is a new mother residing in a local community, she can access nutritional support through her nearest centre to make sure her baby stays healthy.
To fight malnutrition and health risks in Chandigarh, local projects were started on 1.8.1979 with only 24 centres. Today, the network has grown to 450 Anganwadi centres, covering about 5.50 lac people living in rural, urban, and slum areas.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Integrated Child Development Services |
| Level | State |
| Scheme for | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Chandigarh |
| Category | Health & Wellness |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| Nodal Department | Health Department |
| Launch Date | 2 October 1975 |
Benefits
This scheme offers an integrated package of six essential services to improve the quality of life for eligible people:
- Supplementary nutrition to make sure healthy growth.
- Regular immunization schedules.
- Routine health check-ups.
- Referral services for medical complications.
- Pre-school education for early development.
- Nutrition and health education for mothers and caregivers.
Health-focused services like immunization and check-ups are managed in coordination with the National Health Mission. Eligible people can get these benefits through local Anganwadi workers or helpers who serve the community directly.
Eligibility
This scheme follows a universal approach to make sure no one is left behind. A person is eligible if they fall into these categories:
- Children aged 0-6 years.
- Pregnant women.
- Lactating mothers.
- Women and adolescent girls aged 14-18 years residing in Chandigarh.
Application Process
There is no need to fill out a complex online application form to get this support. Simply visit the nearest Anganwadi centre with the required identity documents to enroll yourself or your child for the benefits provided.
Documents
Carry the following document for enrollment at the local centre:
- Aadhaar Card
References
FAQ's
What services are included under this scheme?
The core services include supplementary nutrition, health check-ups, immunization, non-formal pre-school education, nutrition health education, and referral services.
What are the objectives of this scheme?
The main goals are to improve the nutritional status of children from birth to age 6, encourage social and physical growth, reduce mortality and school dropout rates, and help mothers manage their child's health and nutrition needs.
Who qualifies as a beneficiary?
The main eligible people are children under the age of 6, pregnant women, and lactating mothers who reside within the covered areas.