Punjab to Build 1,156 New Anganwadi Centres with a Budget of 138.72 Crore. The Punjab Government has revealed the details of a comprehensive plan for strengthening the infrastructure of child and maternal care by constructing 1,156 new Anganwadi Centres across the state. “The total budget for the project is ₹138.72 crores, which aims to give a boost to the quality of early childhood education and nutrition programs as well as maternal health services explains Social Security”, says Women and Child Development Minister, Dr. Baljit Kaur.
Phased Construction Plan
In the first phase, 1,000 AWCs are in progress. Out of these, 56 have already been completed, 644 are under construction, and the rest 300 would be under way shortly. Further, 156 new centres have been sanctioned, for which construction awaits the necessary panchayat clearances.
Each AWC will cost ₹12 lakh, funded by MGNREGA (₹8 lakh), the Rural Development Department (₹2 lakh), and the Department of Social Security, Women & Child Development (₹2 lakh) for furnishings and minor works.
Focus on Infrastructure and Amenities
The project integrates modern infrastructure and amenities to create an environment conducive to children’s holistic development. Key highlights include:
- Toilet Facilities: Building 2,162 toilets and piped water supply in 353 AWCs. .
- Furniture: Providing furniture to 21,851 AWCs for functional learning environments. .
- Aspirational Districts: Setting up 100 “Saksham AWCs” in Moga and Ferozepur with learning tools, rainwater harvesting facilities, and internet connectivity.
Upgradation of Existing Centers
Besides new constructions, 350 already existing AWCs are undergoing structural repairs and upgradations worth ₹7 crore. During the upgradations, RO units, LED lighting, and Poshan Vatikas are being installed for sustainable development. Upgradation of Saksham AWCs shall also be undertaken, and the work shall be completed by February 28, 2025.
Multi Scheme Support
The program uses schemes of the central government to widen its ambit:
- Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana: 19 AWCs under construction with a total budget of ₹3.5 crore.
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK): 244 AWCs constructed at an expense of ₹14.40 lakh per unit.
District-Wise Allocation
It guarantees equal development throughout Punjab, and Ludhiana is allocated 94 new centres, followed by 73 in Amritsar and Hoshiarpur, respectively.
Challenges and Deadlines
Although the project has to face delays on panchayat resolutions, the government still strives to complete it on time. The deadline set for completing the sanitation initiatives and furniture installations was March 2025, thereby ensuring the on-time completion of this revolutionary program.
