National evaluation of integrated child development service

The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme, initiated in 1975 as an innovative experiment in 33 projects, has developed into the most comprehensive programme for children for delivery of an integrated package of services encompassing the main components of human resource development namely health, nutrition and education. The scheme has expanded considerably and 5614 projects have been sanctioned till 31 March 1996 and at present, provides services to 2.22 crores beneficiaries in about 3926 operational ICDS Projects. In terms of its outreach it is one of the largest of such programmes in the world.

Since its inception, the programme has generated considerable interest among planners, administrators, researchers and field level functionaries. A large number of research studies have been undertaken to assess the impact of the programme on the target groups. However, these studies have provided only plecemeal information and have not investigated the impact of services on the target groups in a comprehensive manner. Realising the need for a comprehensive investigation at the national level, the Department of Women and Child Development, which is the nodal department for implementation of ICDS, felt that a national evaluation of ICDS should be made to ascertain the impact of the scheme on children and women; identify problems and bottlenecks in the implementation of the programme; and evolve strategies for further improvement in the programme. The task of conducting the study was entrusted to National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD). The National Informatics Centre provided the Institute with support and facilities for analysis of data of the study.

The Institute carried out the present evaluation study during the year 1990-92 in 100 ICDS projects spread over 98 districts in 25 States and one Union Territory.

The present report is based on empirical data collected on selected indicators which are considered crucial for appraisal of various aspects of the programme. The findings indicate positive Impact of health, nutrition and pre-school education services on children and women. It is hoped that the findings and conclusions and recommendations of the study will help in further improving the implementation of ICDS programme and enhancing the element of community participation in it.