Punjab Moves to Improve Sanitation Facilities at Anganwadi Centres

The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has announced plans to strengthen sanitation infrastructure in Anganwadi centres across the state. The initiative aims to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy environment for children attending these centres. Punjab’s Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, said the government will construct new toilets for children at 2,162 Anganwadi centres located in rural areas. The project will involve an expenditure of approximately ₹7.78 crore. Providing further details, the minister stated that the construction cost of each toilet will be around ₹36,000. She added that funds for the project will soon be released to the districts so that construction work can begin without delay. Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that the toilets will be built keeping in mind the health, safety, and hygiene needs of children. The initiative is expected to provide improved sanitation facilities and create a cleaner and healthier environment for young children attending Anganwadi centres. She also noted that Anganwadi centres serve as the first stage of care and early education for young children. Ensuring a safe, hygienic, and supportive environment at these centres remains a key priority of the state government. Improved sanitation facilities will not only protect children’s health but also strengthen parents’ confidence in the Anganwadi system. The minister further stated that the construction of toilets in rural areas will be carried out through the Rural Development and Panchayat Department. The work will be undertaken on a priority basis and completed at the earliest.