Abstract: Background: ICDS is the World`s largest community based outreach program running all over the country, which offers a package of health, nutrition and education services to children below the age of 6 years, pregnant and nursing mothers.
The focal point for delivery of these services is Anganwadi Centre (AWC).
As anganwadi workers (AWWs) are the backbone of ICDS program, its successful functioning depends upon the effectiveness of anganwadi workers which in turn depends upon their knowledge, attitude and practices.
Objectives: 1) To study the socio-demographic and work profile of anganwadi workers.
2) To assess the problems perceived by anganwadi workers in executing the above services.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the anganwadi centres in the urban area of Raichur municipality. After taking verbal consent, Anganwadi worker were interviewed using questionnaire. Duration of the study was one year. 210 anganwadi centres were included in the study.
Results: Majority of anganwadi workers (71%) were aged less than 40 years, 44.3% were matriculate and 60% had working experience of <10 years. 84.8% of anganwadi centres had permanent helpers. The mean correct knowledge score of anganwadi workers was about 15.38. Majority (48.1%) of anganwadi workers had good knowledge about the ICDS services.
Conclusion: Anganwadi workers need to be given refresher training regularly to improve their knowledge. There is need to address their problems while delivering their duties to keep them motivated and interested to effectively perform their responsibilities.
