Patna: The Bihar government has revised the operating hours of anganwadi centres across the state in response to rising temperatures and the threat of heatwaves, officials said.
Under new guidelines issued by the social welfare department, all centres will now function from 7:30am to 11:30am, allowing services to be delivered during cooler morning hours.
Officials said the move is aimed at safeguarding the health of young children, pregnant women and lactating mothers, who are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat. The revised schedule is expected to ensure uninterrupted delivery of nutrition, early childhood education and basic health services while avoiding exposure to the midday sun.
The department has also empowered district magistrates to make further changes, including revising timings or temporarily suspending operations, if weather conditions worsen. Authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant and continuously monitor the situation.
Strict action has been warned against any anganwadi worker or assistant found negligent in the distribution of nutritional supplements during the summer months. Officials have directed staff to maintain quality and regular supply of food supplements and continue activities such as maintaining poshan vatikas (nutrition gardens).
Parents have been advised to send children to centres within the revised timings and to take precautionary measures, including ensuring adequate hydration, dressing children in light clothing and avoiding outdoor exposure during peak afternoon heat.
Anganwadi workers have been instructed to adhere strictly to the new schedule and complete all activities — including nutrition distribution, pre-school education and health check-ups — within the stipulated hours.
Officials said the government will continue to monitor weather conditions closely and issue further directives if required.
