The Palna Scheme, initiated in 2022, aims to enhance child care for working mothers in India. With an increase in nuclear families, the demand for quality day-care services has risen. The scheme provides crèche facilities to support mothers in balancing work and family responsibilities. It is part of the broader Mission Shakti initiative, which focuses on women’s empowerment and economic participation.
Background of the Scheme
The Palna Scheme is a restructured version of the National Creche Scheme. It was launched under the sub-scheme ‘Samarthya’ of Mission Shakti. The scheme is designed to formalise child care responsibilities that were traditionally viewed as domestic work. By doing so, it supports the Sustainable Development Goal 8, which promotes decent work and economic growth.
Funding Structure
The financing of the Palna Scheme involves a collaborative effort between the Central and State Governments. The funding ratio varies – for general states, it is 60:40, while for North-Eastern and Special Category States, it is 90:10. Union Territories without legislature receive 100% funding from the Centre. This ensures adequate resources for effective implementation.
Objectives of the Palna Scheme
The primary objective is to provide quality crèche facilities for children aged 6 months to 6 years. The scheme focuses on health, nutrition, and cognitive development. It also aims to ensure compliance with the Maternity Benefit Act regarding crèche facilities in workplaces. This is crucial for promoting women’s employment.
Integrated Services Offered
Palna offers a comprehensive package of services. These include day-care facilities, early stimulation activities, pre-school education, and health monitoring. The scheme collaborates with Mission Poshan 2.0 to provide supplementary nutrition. This holistic approach supports early childhood development and well-being.
Types of Crèches
The scheme features two types of crèches – Standalone Crèches and Anganwadi-cum-Crèches (AWCCs). Standalone crèches are dedicated facilities, while AWCCs combine the roles of Anganwadi centres and crèches. Both types aim to enhance the participation of women in the workforce.
Operational Guidelines
Crèche operations under the Palna Scheme must be flexible to meet local needs. They are required to operate for 26 days a month and for 7.5 hours daily. Each crèche ideally accommodates a maximum of 25 children to ensure quality care. The locations are strategically chosen to be close to residential areas or workplaces of mothers.
Support for Crèche Workers
Crèche Workers and Helpers play a vital role in the scheme. They are typically honorary workers with provisions for honorariums based on the type of crèche. Standalone crèche workers receive Rs. 6,500, while AWCC workers receive Rs. 5,500. This financial support encourages dedicated care and attention to children.
Current Status and Future Plans
As of March 2025, 11,395 AWCCs have been approved across India. The Ministry of Women and Child Development plans to establish 17,000 new AWCCs by 2024-25. This expansion is aimed at increasing the accessibility of quality child care services, thereby promoting women’s employment.
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