Performance Audit of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in Haryana (2005-2010)

Abstract

The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), a Centrally sponsored scheme, was launched in 1975­76 with the main objective of improving the nutritional standard and health status of children in the age group of zero to six years and to enhance the capability of mothers to look after the health of their children. Performance audit of the scheme in Haryana for the Period 2005-2010, brought out deficiencies in its implementation. Coverage of children and women beneficiaries under various components of the scheme was inadequate. About 44 per cent of the children in the age group of zero to six years were malnourished at the end of 2009­-10. Huge funds were drawn in advance of requirement and were kept in bank accounts. About one ­fifth of the targeted Anganwadi buildings were not constructed despite availability of funds. Facilities such as drinking water and toilets were not available in 73 and 57 per cent Anganwadi Centres respectively. Non-­testing of food to check adequate micronutrients, non-­maintenance of records of referral services, etc. also indicated deficient implementation of the scheme.