Karnataka Minister Pledges Strict Action Against Anganwadi Corruption

In a recent development, the Women and Child Development Minister of Karnataka, Lakshmi Hebbalkar, has taken a strong stance against corruption in the appointment of anganwadi workers and assistants. Speaking at a divisional-level progress review meeting in Belagavi on September 7th, 2025, the minister made it clear that she will not tolerate any form of corruption in the anganwadi appointment process.

Hebbalkar emphasized that all appointments must be made solely on the basis of merit, and she will not interfere or buckle under pressure from anyone. She warned that strict action will be taken against those found involved in any violations. The minister stressed the need for complete transparency in the entire appointment process.

Furthermore, the minister addressed the issue of funding, stating that there is no shortage of funds for paying rent for anganwadi buildings and buying eggs to be distributed to children. She directed officials to release these payments without delay.

Hebbalkar also highlighted the department's achievements, noting that Karnataka's Women and Child Development Department is being considered a model for other states by the Central government. She revealed that the state has received an allocation under the Saksham scheme to run 17,500 anganwadis, which is more than the allocation for bigger states.

As the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) that introduced the anganwadi system completes 50 years this year, the minister expressed plans to celebrate the golden jubilee. She also praised the performance of over 80% of the state's anganwadis, stating that they are doing better than private nurseries in providing facilities to children.

The minister emphasized the need to ensure that the number of children in anganwadis does not decrease and appealed to officials to launch a campaign to spread awareness about the benefits of anganwadis among parents.