Implementing innovative and sustainable methods to tackle grassroot level problems at anganwadi centers in Virpapura Village, Karnataka (India)

Abstract

Background: Anganwadi center is a part of the Integrated Child Development Services program, which was implemented by the government for reducing maternal and childhood malnutrition. However, the anganwadi centers lack few essential elements necessary for the progressive development of children. Aim: To identify the lack of facilities in the anganwadis and implement innovative and sustainable solutions to tackle grass-root level problems at anganwadi centers. Materials and Methods: A descriptive survey was carried out among 15 anganwadis of Kudur block in Karnataka for 30 days. A 10-item self-designed checklist was used for the survey. Virpapura's anganwadi was selected for the implementation of the program. Innovative and sustainable solutions were implemented for supplemental diet, hygienic practices, creative activities, and dental care. Results: The current study shows that, while all anganwadis served sufficient two meals to children, only 59.49% of children aged 2–6 years fell within normal body mass index category, and 73.3% anganwadis had moderate attendance. All anganwadis were made of pucca building; 46.6% of them were clean, 33.3% shared compound with a primary school, and 66.6% had sanitation facilities but was not put to use. Handwashing habit was absent in children, and there was poor dental knowledge among anganwadi workers. Occasionally, creative activities were conducted for the children. Conclusion: A sustainable solution to any problem can arise from the people themselves; all they need is encouragement and environment to step forward. Solutions to problems of rural India can be ingrained successfully with community participation.