Bandipora, Feb 11: Scores of Anganwadi centres in this North Kashmir district are lacking basic facilities causing immense hardships to the children.
 “Out of 230 centres running under the Integrated Child Development Scheme for the children between 0-6 years in the district, majority are without toilets and drinking water facilities,” said Prof. Manzoor Fazili, adding the children were seen defecating in open. Prof Manzoor said the present condition of these centres defeats the very purpose of ICDS. “There is no concept of pre-schooling or heath education in these centres,” he said, adding “Children go to the neighbouring houses and tea shops to drink water.”
 The parents who send their wards to these Centres have also expressed dismay over the lack of basic amenities. “We are sending our children to these Centres with the hope that they will get nutritional food and a chance to play with others in safe environment. But our children are facing difficulties due to lack of basic amenities,” the parents complain.
 “We took up the issue with senior government functionaries, but the authorities failed to provide these facilities,” the parents said.
 Commenting over the issue, the Anganwadi workers said that they too were ‘managing’ things in the Centres. “I have 20 children in a small room having no windows and despite informing the concerned officials about the problem, nothing substantial has been done so far,” a worker said on the conditions of anonymity.
 When contacted Social Welfare Minister, Sakina Itoo said “The Centers are in good condition and are receiving proper funds under various schemes.”

Lastupdate on : Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 12 Feb 2011 00:00:00 IST