CDPO Shargole conducts orientation program for Anganwadi helpers

KARGIL: The Child Development Project Officer (CDPO), Shargole, on Tuesday conducted a meeting-cum-awareness programme for Anganwadi Helpers, emphasising hygiene, sanitation and the effective delivery of services under the Integrated Child Development framework while reinforcing their responsibilities in early childhood care.

The session, led by CDPO Farida Banoo, focused on strengthening the capacity of Anganwadi Helpers through orientation on their day-to-day responsibilities and promoting best practices for maintaining hygienic and child-friendly Anganwadi centres.

Medical personnel delivered a presentation highlighting the importance of personal hygiene, cleanliness within Anganwadi centres and the provision of safe drinking water as essential measures for safeguarding the health of children and beneficiaries.

During the meeting, participants were briefed on their core responsibilities, including punctuality, assisting Anganwadi Workers in pre-school education activities, preparing and serving nutritious meals and maintaining records in accordance with prescribed guidelines.

An Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) addressed the gathering on critical public health issues, including menstrual hygiene, hygienic management of sanitary waste and measures to address social stigma associated with menstruation.

The ANM also sensitised participants on maintaining clean and safe Anganwadi centres through proper sanitation and waste management practices, besides outlining practical measures to ensure the personal hygiene of children attending the centres to minimise the spread of infections.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, with officials reiterating the importance of maintaining hygiene standards and strengthening community-based childcare services through the active participation of Anganwadi staff.