The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme in Nagaland is a comprehensive program aimed at improving the nutritional and health status of children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Launched in 1975 in the Jalukie block of Peren district with 50 Anganwadi centres, the scheme has expanded to 60 projects across 11 districts, encompassing 3980 Anganwadi centres. These centres provide six essential services to 3.45 lakh beneficiaries in the age group of 0-6 years, as well as to pregnant women and lactating mothers.
Key Benefits
The ICDS Scheme offers a comprehensive package of six services to ensure the holistic development and well-being of children and mothers:
- Supplementary Nutrition
- Provides essential nutrients to children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers to combat malnutrition and promote healthy growth.
- Immunization
- Ensures timely vaccination of children to protect against various preventable diseases.
- Health Check-up
- Regular health monitoring to detect and address any health issues early on.
- Referral Services
- Facilitates referrals to higher healthcare facilities for specialized treatment when needed.
- Pre-school Non-formal Education
- Early childhood education to prepare children for formal schooling and promote cognitive and social development.
- Nutrition & Health Education
- Educates mothers and caregivers on proper nutrition, hygiene, and healthcare practices to foster a healthy environment for children.
Eligibility
The ICDS Scheme is designed to support the most vulnerable segments of the population in Nagaland:
- Children
- Age: Up to 6 years.
- Pregnant Women
- Women who are currently pregnant and residing in Nagaland.
- Lactating Mothers
- Mothers who are breastfeeding their children.
Exclusions
- Children Above 6 Years:
- Children older than 6 years are not eligible for the ICDS benefits.
Application Process (Offline)
To avail the benefits of the ICDS Scheme, eligible individuals must follow an offline application process:
- Visit Nearest Anganwadi Centre:
- Approach the closest Anganwadi Centre to initiate the application process.
- Consultation and Registration:
- Engage with the Anganwadi worker who will guide you through the registration and benefit availing process.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Provide all necessary documents as listed under Documents Required to complete the application.
Documents Required
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents to avail the ICDS Scheme benefits:
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport-Sized Photograph
- Proof of Age / Date of Birth
- Proof of Address
- Additional Documents for Specific Groups:
- Widows, Orphans, etc., must provide relevant supporting documents as required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does the plan benefit mothers?
Regular health check-ups, dietary assistance, and instruction on preserving health and cleanliness help mothers to take better care of their children and themselves.
With whom may one use this program?
Children up to six years old, pregnant women, breastfeeding moms living in Nagaland and using Anganwadi Centres for service access are among eligible people.
What main selection criteria apply to the beneficiaries?
Beneficiaries are chosen according on their eligibility as described above; special attention is paid to individuals from underprivileged and vulnerable groups thereby guaranteeing inclusive access to services.
How are they offered?
Anganwadi Centres, manned by skilled employees who manage the delivery of nourishment, health check-ups, immunisations, education, and referral services, form a network for rendering services.
Sources and References
- Guidelines
- Official Website