PANAJI
Bicholim MLA Chandrakant Shetye raised concerns to the Women and Child Development Department, led by Minister Vishwajit Rane, about the status and safety of Anganwadi centres in Bicholim. Shetye's inquiries covered the number of centres operating in government or rent-free premises, student enrollment, and compliance with safety regulations.
The department reported that Bicholim has thirteen Anganwadi centres in government or rent-free premises, with a total of 148 students enrolled. Enrollment varied from 2 to 25 children per centre. Shetye also addressed recent incidents of roof water leakages and the department's response. For example, AWC Khalchawada Mencurem, located in the Health quarters, reported a leakage on April 8, 2022. The Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) forwarded the repair proposal, and the Public Works Department (PWD) replaced the roof tiles with iron sheets by November 2023. Similar issues at other centres, like AWC Madhlawada Sal and AWC Kholpe Sal, were temporarily addressed with polythene sheets before permanent repairs.
Some centres still face pending issues, but the department is actively working to ensure the safety and well-being of children in these facilities. Shetye’s inquiries highlight the need for regular maintenance and swift action on infrastructure issues in Anganwadi centres.
