Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet, in its meeting on Wednesday, approved a significant amendment to the Odisha Child and Women Welfare Service Rules, mandating that Anganwadi workers must hold a graduate degree or equivalent from a recognized university for selection-based appointment to the post of Junior Grade Service (Inspector).
Previously, under the Odisha Child and Women Welfare Service Rules, 1989, the eligibility criterion for this position required only a pass in the Secondary Education Examination (HSC) conducted by the Board of Secondary Education, Odisha, or an equivalent examination from a recognized board or council. The new amendment raises the educational qualification bar, aiming to enhance the quality of service delivery and improve the management of welfare schemes for children and women.
However, the amended rule will not apply to Anganwadi workers currently employed under the earlier qualification criteria, ensuring their positions remain unaffected. The mandatory qualification examination will continue to be a requirement for new appointments.
This move is expected to strengthen the efficiency of the Women and Child Development Department by equipping it with better-qualified personnel to implement critical welfare programs. The decision reflects the state government’s commitment to improving service standards and ensuring effective administration of initiatives aimed at the welfare of children and women across Odisha.
