Scorching summer heat: Anganwadis to get 41 days leave

As Karnataka continues to experience severe hot weather, the state government has decided to extend the vacation for Anganwadi centers by 15 days, thus making it a total of 41 days of leave for the children.

The announcement comes as a relief to the children as well as the staff of the Anganwadi centres who otherwise had to bear the scorching summer temperatures. Originally the government had declared a holiday for Anganwadi children from April 15 to May 11 given the election duties of Anganwadi workers.

Usually, the Anganwadi centres get a 15-day vacation period but this time they will get a 41-day vacation period, including the extended leave from May 11-26. The move aims to safeguard the health of young children amidst scorching summer temperatures.

Amid the severe heatwave conditions in the state, which posed challenges in regular activities at the centres, the authorities of a few districts appealed to the state government to grant extended leave for Anganwadi workers and helpers. Consequently, it was decided to grant permission for longer leaves, especially in the Kalyana Karnataka region, where the heatwave is particularly intense.

Later it was decided to extend leave for other district Anganwadi centers as well. The decision has been taken in view of the Lok Sabha elections, as Anganwadi workers are deputed on election duty. It is gathered that Anganwadi centers will be refurbished in this period.

Meanwhile, it has been emphasized that food should be supplied to the beneficiaries of Anganwadi Center as per rules and measures be taken to ensure that there is no disruption in the distribution of nutritious food to the children.