Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Oct 5: The ICDS Center at Shah Mohalla Bakiaker in north Kashmir’s Handwara has become the first in Kashmir to achieve ‘Saksham’ status.
Conferred by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, this status has brought significant changes, particularly with the aids provided to assist in teaching.
The center currently serves around 22 children and is fully equipped with modern facilities designed to meet their needs.
One of the staff members, Shazia, mentioned that since the center earned this recognition, the facilities have improved, notably with the installation of a growth monitor and an LED television used for teaching.
“We are happy that it is the first in Kupwara. It is a matter of pride for all of us and a result of our hard work. We work throughout the week and provide meals as per the menu. Earlier, it was only about *Poshan*; now, we are also imparting education,” she said.
The staff at the center expressed their pride and happiness at being the first in the Kashmir Valley to achieve this recognition.
It is noteworthy that the Saksham ICDS centers are part of the Government’s initiative to strengthen the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme.
These centers aim to provide comprehensive early childhood care, education, and nutrition to children under six years of age, along with health services for pregnant and lactating mothers.
Another staff member, Mariyam, also noted that the facilities have improved and are being used for the overall development of the children.
“Apart from the LED television for teaching, there is also an RO system for providing clean drinking water to the children. There are other pieces of equipment as well, which have made teaching easier,” she said.
The staff emphasized that they will continue working to maintain the center’s status, recognizing that it will make a difference and enhance efforts to provide comprehensive early childhood care and education to those enrolled.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
