Overview The Karnataka Rajya Anganwadi Naukarara Sangha has announced an indefinite strike starting December 1, 2025 . The strike aims to address long-pending issues related to the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme and to urge the Union government to take immediate action. Key Developments Strike Details Date: The indefinite strike will commence on December 1, 2025 . Location: Protests are planned in Bengaluru, Tumakuru, Mandya, and Hubballi . Participants: Anganwadi workers from various districts including Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Bengaluru South, Kolar, Chikkaballapura, Bidar, Kalaburagi, Yadgir, and Raichur . Demands of the Anganwadi Workers ICDS Anniversary: Official celebration of the 50th anniversary of ICDS . Scheme Permanence: Making the ICDS scheme permanent or setting up a separate directorate until regularisation. Honorarium Raise: Increase in honorarium, noting current amounts are only ₹2,700 for workers and ₹1,350 for helpers, and implementation of minimum wages. Technology: Removal of the Facial Recognition System (FRS) or provision of Wi-Fi in all Anganwadi centers if FRS is continued. Employment Status: Recognition as government employees with proper legal benefits. Grade Recognition: Recognition as Grade III and Grade IV staff . Education: Introduction of LKG and UKG classes in all anganwadi centers to strengthen early education. Background on ICDS Launched in 1975 , the ICDS scheme has played a crucial role in improving social indicators and the country’s human development index (HDI). However, the scheme has allegedly been weakened over the years due to reduced funding. The funding pattern was reportedly reduced to 60:40 after the introduction of NITI Aayog , leading to inadequate budgets for anganwadi centers to maintain basic facilities. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS2 (Social Justice, Government Policies & Interventions) and GS3 (Inclusive Growth) . It highlights issues related to social sector schemes, the welfare of vulnerable sections, and the challenges faced by frontline workers. Understanding the demands and concerns of Anganwadi workers is crucial for analyzing the effectiveness of social welfare programs. Key Issues for UPSC Funding of Social Sector Schemes: The impact of changes in funding patterns (e.g., after NITI Aayog introduction) on scheme implementation. Working Conditions of Frontline Workers: Challenges faced by Anganwadi workers and helpers, including low honorarium and lack of job security. Early Childhood Education: The role of Anganwadi centers in providing early education and nutrition to children. Use of Technology in Social Sector: The implications of using technologies like FRS in Anganwadi centers, including privacy concerns and accessibility issues.