TIRUVALLUR: Anganwadi workers in Tiruvallur district play a crucial role in child development but remain overlooked and underappreciated by government officials. Despite their ongoing pleas, the vacant posts for teaching staff and helpers remain unfilled. In the Tiruvallur block, 107 anganwadis operate with just 83 teachers and 85 helpers, forcing many workers to take on additional responsibilities.
Since 2016, these workers have not received registers to record children’s details and attendance, compelling them to purchase their own. Anganwadi workers receive a meager Rs 600/month honorarium with a Rs 40 travel allowance, despite their significant contributions. They visit assigned centers on alternate days, often using personal vehicles or auto-rickshaws due to inadequate bus services, further straining their finances.
A worker explained, “Our expenses exceed our earnings. Autos charge Rs 20 per trip, and using two-wheelers costs Rs 100 in fuel. This job barely covers our costs.” Another worker highlighted the impact of dilapidated buildings, saying, “An anganwadi was relocated to a ration shop, overburdening us with register work and leaving no time for teaching. A new building with additional staff would help.”
In 2018, the government provided free smartphones to streamline their work, but repairs and replacements are out-of-pocket expenses. Workers often use personal phones for official tasks, and senior officials demand data uploads even at night.
Despite Minister of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment P Geetha Jeevan’s promise in March to address vacancies, no updates have been received. An official from the Social Welfare Department expects notifications soon, hoping to fill the gaps in all 13 blocks in Tiruvallur.