Kerala mandates photo verification for Anganwadi beneficiaries

In Kerala, beneficiaries of Anganwadi nutritional supplements must now provide a photo when collecting their supplies. This new rule aims to ensure that the right people receive these essential items. The change follows complaints that some supplies did not reach those they were intended for. The Department of Women and Child Development introduced this requirement to improve accountability. To assist with this, the existing 'Poshan Tracker' app has been updated. It now allows Anganwadi workers to take real-time photos during distribution. After the photo is taken, a one-time password (OTP) will be sent to the beneficiary's registered mobile number. The process will only be complete once the OTP is entered in the app. The nutritional items provided, such as amrutham powder, ragi, and jaggery, are meant for children aged 6 months to 3 years, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and adolescent girls. Previously, family members could collect these supplies for beneficiaries. However, now mothers must come in person to collect them. Some Anganwadi workers have expressed concerns about possible technical issues that could cause delays in the system.