In a recent session of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu raised concerns about the delayed incentives for Anganwadi workers and helpers (AWWs and AWHs) under Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS). Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio addressed the issue, highlighting that no specific amount is earmarked for these incentives.
The question was raised during the 5th Session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Tuesday. Nienu sought information on the total number of AWWs and AWHs in the state and the amount disbursed to each. Rio revealed that there are 3,980 AWWs and 3,980 AWHs in Nagaland.
According to Rio, an amount of Rs 500 each for AWWs and Rs 250 each for AWHs is transferred to their accounts based on eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD). However, during FY 2022-23, only 27 AWWs and 46 AWHs were eligible for these incentives due to technical issues with the Poshan Tracker App.
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Nienu expressed concern over the Social Welfare Department’s misleading responses and emphasized the need for transparency. He pointed out that out of 3,980 AWWs, only 27 percent had been identified and paid through Direct Beneficiary Transfer (DBT), leaving 3,953 without their incentives. Similarly, out of 3,980 AWHs, only 46 received their incentives through DBT, leaving 3,934 without payment.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio acknowledged these issues and attributed them to technical problems with the Poshan Tracker App. He assured that sufficient training was not provided for field functionaries, leading to delays in releasing funds. In FY 2021-22, no sanction was released by the Union Ministry due to frequent modifications and app-related issues.
Despite these challenges, Rio pledged that eligible beneficiaries would receive their incentives. He directed the Department to ensure transparency and clarity in the process. Minister G. Kaito Aye also confirmed that incentives were not fully implemented as desired in 2022 due to lack of specific funding for AWWs and AWHs under CSS.
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The situation highlights ongoing efforts to improve the system for identifying eligible beneficiaries and ensuring timely payments. As Nagaland continues to address these challenges, it remains committed to supporting its frontline workers who play a crucial role in childcare and nutrition programs across the state.
Nienu stressed that the house should guarantee that AWWs and AWHs receive their incentives promptly. In response, CM Neiphiu Rio assured that steps are being taken to resolve these issues and ensure transparency in the process.
