Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet on Wednesday approved an important amendment to the Odisha Children’s and Women Welfare Service Rules, mandating that Anganwadi workers must hold a graduate degree or equivalent for selection-based appointment to the post of Junior Grade Service (Inspector).
At present, 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 recognised 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, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja told reporters after the Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
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.
