Construction of anganwadi centres gains momentum under MGNREGA in Mandi

The construction of anganwadi centres under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has picked up pace across Mandi district. A review meeting chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Rohit Rathour was held on Monday to assess the progress of these ongoing projects.

The meeting saw the virtual participation of all Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) and Block Development Officers (BDOs) from across the district.

During the meeting, ADC Rohit Rathour said out of 76 proposed anganwadi centres to be constructed within primary school premises under MGNREGA, the construction had already commenced at 29 sites. He further said, in all, 108 anganwadi centres were planned under MGNREGA, with seven additional centres proposed under other schemes, bringing the total to 115.

As of now, work has begun at 40 centres, while the construction is yet to start at 68 locations. The ADC issued clear instructions to expedite the work and ensure that construction begins at the remaining sites without further delay.

ADC Rathour also directed all CDPOs to personally visit the sites, where land disputes or other administrative issues are preventing the commencement of work. He emphasised the need for prompt resolution so that construction could begin as soon as possible.

Regarding delays caused by pending Forest Rights Act (FRA) clearances, ADC Rathour instructed that these matters be taken up with the Forest Department and resolved within 15 days to avoid further hold-ups.

He also stressed the importance of utilising existing funds efficiently before requesting additional financial allocations. The daily monitoring of construction progress was mandated to ensure continuous advancement and accountability.

The meeting was also attended by District Rural Development Officer Gopi Chand Pathak and District Programme Officer Ajay Badrail.

Himachal Tribune