West Bengal Minister Defends State-Run Anganwadi Centers Amid Criticism

West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja defends state-run anganwadi centers during an Assembly discussion about the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). Emphasizing no discrimination between districts, she criticizes attempts to sow distrust. Opposing voices from the BJP express concerns about fund allocation and prioritization of central funds over state funds for the project.

West Bengal Minister of Women and Child Development Shashi Panja on Friday expressed regret over attempts to create mistrust about state-run anganwadi centres. Addressing the Assembly on the state's implementation of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), Panja highlighted the establishment of 1,19,481 anganwadi centres, benefiting 67 lakh children.

Responding to BJP Chief Whip Shankar Ghosh's inquiry about uneven focus on districts like Murshidabad, Panja assured that every child is treated with equal compassion. She cited that Murshidabad has 9,021 centres while North 24 Parganas has 10,381, the number varying based on district size.

Panja condemned efforts to sow distrust about these initiatives, emphasizing their positive impact. Ghosh, however, questioned fund utilization and uplift measures for backward districts, expressing disappointment over Panja's remarks.

BJP MLA and economist Ashok Lahiri questioned the state's dependence on central funds for ICDS while allocating significant amounts for Durga Puja organisers. Panja countered, accusing Lahiri of making unconstitutional comments and stressing the long-term benefits of the centrally initiated ICDS project.

(With inputs from agencies.)