DW BUREAU / CHANDIGARH

Haryana Women and Child Development Minister Aseem Goel stated that while the government has set a target to open 500 creches for child care, more creches will be opened if necessary.

The government has approved a comprehensive budget in accordance with its "Creche-Policy." For the year 2024-25, Rs 3215 lakh has been allocated, reflecting the state government's commitment to women and child welfare.

Aseem Goel said that to care for the young children, the government decided in 2020 to open 500 creches in the state. Moving swiftly towards this goal, the Women and Child Development Department has already opened 165 creches in 16 districts in the first phase, caring for over 4,500 children.

He stated that Haryana is the first state in the country to create its own "Creche-Policy," setting an example for other states. He expressed hope that this decision would not only support children's development but will also help women contribute to their family's economic stability.

Further talking about the rapid growth of female employees he said that the government's ongoing efforts to promote women's education and employment opportunities have led to a steady rise in the number of working women.

Detailing the "Creche-Policy," the Minister stated that these creche centers, located near women's workplaces, can care for children aged six months to six years for eight to ten hours and Skilled and trained staff manage activities such as play, regular health check-ups and vaccinations, sleeping arrangements, education, and physical development.

The creches also provide nutritious meals, the cost of which is covered by the state government. There are feeding rooms for infants, allowing mothers to feed their babies during designated lunch breaks, added the Minister.

Regarding future policies, Sh. Aseem Goel said that the Women and Child Development Department is continuously working to increase the number of creche centres in response to their growing demand.
(editor@dailyworld.in)