Need to sanction proposed creches and strengthen childcare infrastructure under PALNA Scheme of Mission Shakti in Palnadu district, Andhra Pradesh.-laid

Need to sanction proposed creches and strengthen childcare infrastructure under PALNA Scheme of Mission Shakti in Palnadu district, Andhra Pradesh.-laid SHRI LAVU SRIKRISHNA DEVARAYALU (NARASARAOPET): I would like to draw the attention of the Government to the need for strengthening childcare infrastructure under the PALNA Scheme of Mission Shakti (Samarthya), particularly in Palnadu district, Andhra Pradesh. The scheme provides quality crèche facilities for children aged 6 months to 6 years, offering day care, nutrition, early childhood education, growth monitoring, immunisation support and a safe environment for children, while enabling mothers to participate in the workforce. The Government has taken significant steps to expand childcare services under the scheme.

th During the 15 Finance Commission period, the Ministry has envisioned the establishment of 17,000 Anganwadi-cum-Crèches across the country. As of July 2025, 14,599 Anganwadi-cum-Crèches have been approved, of which 2,448 are operational. I request the Hon'ble Minister for Women and Child Development to extend this momentum to Palnadu district by expediting the approval and sanction of the 3 proposed PALNA crèches in the district. Timely central support for these facilities will improve maternal and child care, strengthen early childhood development, enhance nutrition and health outcomes, and enable more women, particularly those from rural and economically weaker families, to pursue education and employment with confidence.