Andhra Pradesh’s Home Minister Anitha has confirmed that the coalition government is making significant strides in improving the conditions of Anganwadi workers, helpers, and support staff. Speaking on Sunday, Anitha emphasized that the government is committed to fulfilling its promises to these frontline workers, particularly those involved in maternal and child health services.

Historic Salary Increases for Anganwadi Workers

According to Anitha, this is the first time in history that Anganwadi wages have been increased twice under the leadership of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. These raises are part of a broader effort to ensure that the promises made to Anganwadi staff during the election period are being fulfilled step by step.

The government has also made efforts to improve the infrastructure of Anganwadi centres. A total of Rs 86.68 lakh has been allocated for the installation of drinking water facilities and toilets in these centres, with funds distributed to each location. This move aims to enhance the working conditions and hygiene for both workers and the communities they serve.

Efforts to Ensure Timely Salaries and Modernization

Anitha stated that measures have been taken to ensure that salaries are credited to Anganwadi workers on the first of every month, eliminating delays that had previously affected their income. This change is expected to provide greater financial stability for the workers and their families.

The government has also allocated Rs 75 crore to provide 58,204 Anganwadi workers, supervisors, and block coordinators with 5G smartphones. These devices are intended to improve the efficiency of services provided to pregnant women, mothers, and children by enabling faster communication and data access.

Attendance at Anganwadi centres has seen a significant increase, rising from 70% to 96% under the coalition government. This improvement reflects the enhanced infrastructure and better working conditions that have been implemented.

Gratuity and Additional Facilities Addressed

The long-pending issue of gratuity for Anganwadi workers has been resolved with Rs 20 crore allocated in the 2025 budget. Payments for this have been initiated within nine months of the government assuming office, addressing a long-standing demand from the workers.

In addition to salary improvements, the government has provided various facilities to Anganwadi centres, including televisions, reverse osmosis (RO) water units, and toilets. Teachers and helpers have also been granted 15 days of summer leave, allowing them to rest and recharge during the hotter months.

Children in these centres are being supported with toys, charts, induction stoves, and quality utensils, which are essential for their development and learning. These resources are designed to create a more conducive environment for early childhood education and care.

According to Anitha, the government’s focus on improving the conditions of Anganwadi workers is part of a broader commitment to public welfare and the enhancement of basic healthcare services. These changes are expected to have a lasting impact on the communities served by these centres.

The government has also emphasized that these improvements are not just symbolic but are being implemented with measurable outcomes. The increased attendance and infrastructure upgrades are tangible results of the coalition government’s policies and priorities.