Ranchi: Jharkhand is witnessing a significant digital transformation, with smartphones emerging as powerful tools not just for connectivity and education but also for enhancing nutrition services and early childhood education delivery.
In a major step towards modernizing Anganwadi services, the Department of Women, Child Development, and Social Security recently distributed 37,810 smartphones to Anganwadi Workers (Sevikas) across the state. These devices are proving to be transformative, equipping frontline workers with real-time data entry capabilities, efficient service delivery systems, and improved engagement with beneficiaries.
“The smartphone has helped me learn data entry, confidently verify beneficiaries through facial authentication, and independently deliver Take-Home Rations (THR) and other services,” says Sarita Kumari, an Anganwadi worker at Sukuruhuttu Centre, Kanke project, Ranchi.
With Aadhaar and facial authentication now mandatory to access ICDS services, Sevikas no longer need to depend on others’ devices. Digitally empowered, they can now carry out their responsibilities independently and more efficiently.
This empowerment has led to a dramatic surge in verified beneficiaries—from 17,44,100 (48.03%) in March 2023 to 30,11,829 (97.22%) by March 31, 2025. Across 38,523 centres, Anganwadi workers are uploading real-time data, enabling the state to monitor progress, identify gaps, and make data-driven decisions to enhance service quality and infrastructure.
Thanks to mobile technology, key services such as THR are now being efficiently delivered to 1,74,036 pregnant women, 1,28,795 lactating mothers, and 12,05,382 children aged 6 months to 3 years. In addition, 4,50,505 children aged 3 to 6 years are receiving freshly cooked meals daily. To further enhance nutrition, the state has introduced egg supplementation in AWCs using funds from the state budget.
Digital capabilities have also improved the dissemination of nutrition and health awareness content, streamlined tracking of immunization schedules, and enabled real-time reporting—all of which are strengthening service delivery, particularly in remote and underserved regions. More importantly, they are deepening community engagement, ensuring that vital services reach the most vulnerable.
Simultaneously, the state government is undertaking significant infrastructure upgrades at Anganwadi Centres. Essential utensils have been distributed to all centres, and 16,775 AWCs have been prioritized for enhancements such as LED TVs, RO water purifiers, electricity connections, ceiling fans, toilets, and access to safe drinking water.
In a move to expand outreach, the state has also identified over 1,200 tribal-dominated villages for the establishment of new Anganwadi Centres aimed at delivering comprehensive nutrition, health, and early education services to tribal populations. Recruitment of new Sevikas and Sahiyas for these centres is already underway.
Today, Anganwadi Centres in Jharkhand are evolving far beyond their traditional roles. With a strong push towards digital empowerment and infrastructure development, they are becoming engines of grassroots transformation—true to the vision of Abua Sarkar (Our Government).