< b="" />Overview of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)< />

The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) is a flagship program implemented by the Government of India to improve the health, nutrition, and early childhood development of children aged 0-6 years. Launched in 1975, ICDS is considered one of the largest and most unique programs for children in the world. It aims to address the needs of children in rural, urban, and tribal areas by providing a package of services at the Anganwadi centers.

< b="" />Role of Ministry of Women and Child Development< />

The correct answer to the question is option 'D' - the Ministry of Women and Child Development. The Ministry of Women and Child Development is responsible for the implementation and monitoring of ICDS. It is the nodal ministry for all matters related to the welfare and development of women and children in India. The ministry formulates policies, plans, and programs related to the well-being of children and coordinates with other ministries and departments to ensure effective implementation of ICDS.

< b="" />Objectives of ICDS< />

The ICDS program has several objectives, including:

1. Improving the nutritional status of children under the age of six and pregnant and lactating women.
2. Reducing the incidence of mortality, morbidity, malnutrition, and school dropout.
3. Enhancing the capability of mothers to look after the health and nutritional needs of their children.
4. Promoting the development of children through early childhood care and education.
5. Creating an enabling environment for the holistic development of children.

< b="" />Key Components of ICDS< />

ICDS operates through a network of Anganwadi centers, which are the focal point for the delivery of services. The key components of ICDS include:

1. Supplementary Nutrition: The program provides supplementary nutrition to children aged 6 months to 6 years, pregnant women, and lactating mothers to meet their dietary requirements.
2. Immunization: ICDS ensures immunization of children against vaccine-preventable diseases, such as polio, measles, and tuberculosis.
3. Health Check-ups: Regular health check-ups are conducted to identify and address health issues in children and women.
4. Pre-school Education: Anganwadi centers offer early childhood care and education to promote cognitive, social, and emotional development in children.
5. Nutrition and Health Education: ICDS provides nutrition and health education to mothers and caregivers to improve their knowledge and practices related to child care and nutrition.
6. Referral Services: In case of severe malnutrition or health complications, ICDS facilitates referral services to higher-level healthcare facilities.

< b="" />Conclusion< />

The Ministry of Women and Child Development is responsible for the implementation of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in India. ICDS aims to improve the health, nutrition, and development of children below the age of six. Through its various components, ICDS provides a comprehensive package of services to children and women, with a focus on nutrition, health, education, and overall well-being.