Question

Enumerate any four objectives of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) programme.

Answer 1

1. Improve Nutritional and Health Status of Children: The ICDS programme aims to enhance the nutritional and health status of children below the age of six by providing supplementary nutrition, immunisation, health check-ups, and referrals to medical services.
2. Lay the Foundation for Proper Psychological, Physical, and Social Development: The programme seeks to support the holistic development of children by promoting early childhood care and education (ECCE) through preschool education, which helps in the physical, mental, and social growth of children.
3. Reduce Incidence of Mortality, Morbidity, Malnutrition, and School Dropout: ICDS aims to lower the rates of child mortality, morbidity, and malnutrition by ensuring regular health monitoring, promoting healthy practices, and providing essential health services to children and pregnant/lactating women. It also encourages continued education by supporting children's early learning.
4. Enhance the Capability of Mothers to Look After the Health and Nutritional Needs of Their Children: The programme provides health and nutrition education to mothers, empowering them with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve their family's overall health and nutrition, thereby fostering better caregiving practices.