Report of the Inter Ministerial Group on ICDS Restructuring

Recognizing that there are both programme design and programme implementation gaps in ICDS – the Report of the Inter Ministerial Group on ICDS Restructuring creates new paradigm both for “What” would be different and “How” could things be done differently. Adopting a life cycle approach to early childhood care and development, Anganwadis would be transformed as vibrant, child friendly ECD centres which will ultimately be owned by women in the community. The strategic shift in “What” is the focus of a restructured ICDS on the critical age group – pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and children under three years for enhanced early child development and nutrition outcomes in a life cycle continuum. Preventive approaches will ensure significant and accelerated reduction in maternal and child under nutrition levels in a large scale, linked to improved health care, safe drinking water, sanitation and hygienic practices.