Assessment of Infrastructure and Logistic at Anganwadi Centers in A Block of Ganjam District, Odisha

Abstract

Introduction: The ICDS scheme provides a package of services to different groups of the target population. These services are provided through the frontline honorary workers called as anganwadi workers (AWWs). The anganwadi centre (AWC) is the focal point for delivery of these services. Objectives: To assess the infrastructure and logistics at anganwadi centres in a block of Ganjam district. Materials and Method: This was a cross sectional study conducted from October 2016 to October 2018. Multistage random sampling was used to select the AWCs. By using table of random numbers, 24 AWCs were selected out of 239 total AWCs in Chatrapur block. Results: All the AWCs were found to be located within the village. 75% AWCs were functioning in their own buildings. 95.8% AWCs were pucca houses. 54.2% AWCs were hygienic. Adequate lighting and proper ventilation was present in 75% AWCs. 66.6% of AWCs had adequate indoor space. Outdoor space was available in 45.8% AWCs and 41.7% AWCs had storage space. 91.7% AWCs had toilet facility and all AWCs had electricity supply. Piped water supply was available in 75% AWCs. 25% AWCs lacked separate kitchen space. Chairs, table, mat, PSE material, growth charts, medicine kit and utensils were available in all the AWCs. MCP Card and posters were available in 95.8% AWCs. Salter weighing machine and adult weighing machine in working condition were present in 95.8% and 83.3% AWCs respectively. Conclusion: Even though there is improvement in the in infrastructure and logistic supplies in the recent years, still it is not satisfactory i.e. 100%. Strengthening of the basic infrastructure of AWCs should be emphasized.