Karnataka celebrates 50 years of Anganwadi services with Hebbalkar launching ICDS Golden Jubilee, Akka Pade, Gruhalakshmi Bank
Ramanagara
In celebration of 50 years of Anganwadi services in Karnataka, the Women and Child Development Minister, Lakshmi Hebbalkar, announced that a landmark event will be held on November 28 at Bangalore Palace Grounds. During the program, three major initiatives will be launched, making it a historic occasion.
Speaking at a preparatory meeting for the South Bangalore district, Hebbalkar highlighted the significance of the ICDS Golden Jubilee, the launch of the Akka Pade scheme, and the inauguration of the Gruhalakshmi Bank. She called on Anganwadi workers and assistants to participate actively to ensure the event’s success.
Hebbalkar emphasized that Congress, the party that led India to independence, has consistently implemented women-centric programs, describing it as a “guarantee government.” She recalled that Indira Gandhi initiated Anganwadis in 1975 in Mysore district to provide nutritional food and education to children living in poverty. Now, after 50 years, the program continues with expanded initiatives, including early education from LKG to UKG and the formation of Gruhalakshmi Multi-Purpose Cooperative Societies under the Gruhalakshmi scheme.
The minister expressed confidence that the Congress government, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, would continue its five-guarantee programs and remain in power through 2028. She criticized BJP for copying the Gruhalakshmi model in Maharashtra but diluting benefits post-election.
Hebbalkar also highlighted the recent increase in honorarium for Anganwadi workers and assistants and promised further increments. She urged that at least 2.5 lakh beneficiaries in South Bangalore be enrolled as shareholders of the Gruhalakshmi cooperative, ensuring the success of the Gruhalakshmi Bank, which aims to reach households directly.
The preparatory meeting was attended by Ramanagara MLA Iqbal Hussain, MLC S. Ravi, officials of various district and state development authorities, and senior officers from the Women and Child Development Department.
