The correct answer is: A) ICDS
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) is a government program in India that provides a comprehensive package of early childhood care and education, nutrition, health, and immunization services to children under six years of age and their mothers. The program is implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) through a network of Anganwadis (child care centers) located in rural and urban areas.
ICDS was launched in 1975 as a pilot program in 3000 villages. It was later extended to all districts of the country in 1983. The program has undergone several modifications over the years, most recently in 2015, when it was renamed as the National Integrated Child Development Services (NICDs).
The objectives of ICDS are to:
- Promote holistic development of children under six years of age
- Reduce incidence of malnutrition among children
- Improve the nutritional status of pregnant women and lactating mothers
- Provide early childhood education to children
- Promote awareness about health and hygiene among mothers and children
ICDS services are provided free of cost to all eligible beneficiaries. The program is funded by the central government and state governments.
ICDS is one of the largest social welfare programs in India. It has been successful in improving the nutritional status of children and mothers in the country. The program has also been instrumental in promoting early childhood education and awareness about health and hygiene.
The other options are:
- B) Poshan Abhiyaan: This is a national nutrition mission launched by the Government of India in 2018. The mission aims to improve the nutritional status of children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
- C) Matru Vandana Yojana: This is a maternity benefit scheme launched by the Government of India in 2001. The scheme provides a cash incentive to pregnant women who deliver their babies in a government health facility.
- D) Midday Meal Scheme: This is a school meal program implemented by the Government of India. The scheme provides free cooked meals to students in government and government-aided schools.