HYDERABAD: Telangana Women, Child, and Welfare Minister Seethakka has emphasised the need to significantly increase the number of children enrolled in Anganwadi centres across the state. She directed Anganwadi teachers and ayahs to work towards identifying children under six years of age in villages and ensuring their enrolment.
Speaking at a review meeting held at the Mission Bhagiratha office in Erramanzil on Monday, Seethakka instructed that the number of children currently enrolled should be raised by 30%. The review focused on the 2025–26 action plan of the Women, Child, and Welfare Department.
The Minister advised officials to finalise action plans according to the budget allocations and ensure the efficient use of funds. Stressing the importance of tackling malnutrition among Anganwadi children, she said that food quality must be further enhanced. Seethakka revealed that a committee comprising experts from the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) and UNICEF has been set up to recommend improvements, and action would be taken upon receiving their report.
She also stressed the need to expedite the child adoption process.
Millets-based snacks for teenage girls
Seethakka announced that under the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam scheme, five percent of opportunities are being allocated to persons with disabilities, urging eligible beneficiaries to utilise this provision. She further stated that the government is considering allotting Indiramma houses directly in the name of family members with disabilities.
Highlighting initiatives for adolescent girls aged between 14 and 18 years, the Minister said Anganwadi centres would distribute “pallipattis” (local snacks) and millet-based snack packs as part of a pilot project in Komaram Bheem Asifabad, Bhupalpally, and Bhadradri Kothagudem districts.
The review meeting was attended by Women, Child, and Welfare Department Secretary Anita Ramachandran, Director Kanthi Wesley, TGFoods MD Chandrasekhar Reddy, Corporation Chairpersons Shobharani, Muthineni Veerayya, Faheem, and Chairperson of the Child Rights Commission Seetha Dayakar Reddy, along with commission members.