Clarification regarding interview of WCD Minister to Reuters
Reuters, had sought a discussion with the Minister for Women and Child Development on the issue of budgetary allocations for the ICDS programme of the Ministry. The Minister had stated that the government has accepted the recommendations of the Finance Commission on increased devolution of funds to the States in the hope that the states will be able to commit necessary additional resources for meeting the objectives of the social sector schemes. In the same understanding, the Group of Chief Ministers has made recommendations on the cost-sharing pattern for various social sector schemes so that the contribution of central and state share to all schemes could be suitably rationalised in view of the increased devolution. It was further stated by the Minister that the States are not committing their shares to some components of some schemes which has caused uncertainty. This is particularly true for the component of wages for Anganwadi workers. The Minister finally stated that she was confident that a solution would be soon arrived at as the Finance Ministry is fully aware of the matter.
The interpretation of Reuters in their article today, attributing certain comments to the Women and Child Development Minister, is completely incorrect and is hereby strongly refuted. The media is requested not to take note of the wrong and mischievous interpretation of Reuters. Ministry will be taking suitable action against Reuters.
