The Union Women and Child Development Ministry has introduced a special protocol for Anganwadi workers involved in the caring of children from 0 to 6 years of age, aimed at identifying and supporting children with disabilities. The protocol includes comprehensive training for these workers to raise awareness about disabilities and their impact on children’s development.
To address the issue effectively, the Ministry aims to provide grassroots-level data on children with disabilities. Anganwadi workers will now play a crucial role in collecting this data and tracking the progress of these children through the implementation of the Poshan tracker.
Speaking about the protocol, Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani emphasized the significance of this initiative. She stated that it represents a silent revolution within the community. Through the dedicated training offered to Anganwadi workers, the Ministry aims to instill the understanding that disabilities should be seen as an opportunity for society to support and help children, rather than as a challenge.
Ms. Irani highlighted that this protocol aligns with the objectives set forth in the National Education Policy-2020. The policy emphasizes the integration of students with disabilities into mainstream schools, ensuring inclusive education opportunities for all children. Recognizing that most of a child’s mental development occurs before the age of six, the policy focuses on providing provisions for disabled children within the education system.
Additionally, the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage-2022 also emphasizes the need to address developmental delays and disabilities in schools. It recommends approaches for identifying signs and symptoms of developmental issues and providing timely support.
The ‘Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi’ program, aligned with these initiatives, advocates for play-based and activity-based learning pedagogy. This program strongly supports the inclusion of children with disabilities and highlights the importance of early intervention and support.
The Anganwadi eco-system, which reaches out to over eight crore children aged 0-6 years, plays a critical role in supporting the development and wellbeing of these children. With the implementation of this protocol, the Ministry aims to improve the effectiveness of Anganwadi workers in identifying and supporting children with disabilities.
This protocol will have a significant impact on the lives of children with disabilities, as it will enable the provision of the necessary support and intervention at an early stage. By raising awareness and promoting inclusive practices, the Ministry aims to create a more inclusive society that values and supports the needs of all children.
