‘Poshan Tracker’ digital application is an important governance tool for real time monitoring and tracking under Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0

Why in news

The Ministry has introduced the ‘Poshan Tracker’ digital application as a governance tool for real-time monitoring and tracking of Anganwadi Centres, workers, and beneficiaries under Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0. A Nominee Module has also been introduced to ensure uninterrupted delivery of Take-Home Ration.

Exam relevance

GS1, GS2, GS3 · Society, Governance, Economy · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Poshan Tracker is a digital application for real-time monitoring and tracking.
2. It covers Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), and beneficiaries.
3. It operates under Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.
4. A Nominee Module ensures uninterrupted delivery of Take-Home Ration (THR).
5. The app facilitates data collection on AWC opening, child attendance, ECCE activities, growth monitoring, Hot Cooked Meal (HCM), and THR provision.
6. Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 is a universal umbrella scheme with no entry barriers.
7. Beneficiaries are entitled to services upon completing e-KYC for Facial Recognition System (FRS).
8. Aadhaar-based tracking helps in beneficiary identification, preventing leakages, and eliminating ghost entries.
9. Approximately 99.88% of registered beneficiaries are Aadhaar-linked, as per Poshan Tracker dashboard data.

Prelims pointers

• Poshan Tracker is a digital application for monitoring Anganwadi Centres and beneficiaries.
• It operates under Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0.
• The Nominee Module is a feature within Poshan Tracker.
• Aadhaar-based tracking and Facial Recognition System (FRS) are used for beneficiary identification.
• Key services tracked include ECCE, growth monitoring, HCM, and THR.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of digital governance tools like the ‘Poshan Tracker’ in improving the delivery and monitoring of social welfare schemes in India. What are the challenges and potential solutions for ensuring their effective implementation?

Static linkage

The Poshan Tracker is linked to the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme, which aims to provide a package of health, nutrition, and education services to children under six years of age, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 are initiatives under the broader umbrella of ICDS, focusing on improving nutritional outcomes and strengthening Anganwadi infrastructure and services.

Significance

The Poshan Tracker serves as a crucial governance tool by enabling real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making for nutrition-related programs. Its ability to track beneficiaries and services facilitates better implementation, identifies gaps, and helps prevent leakages through Aadhaar-based verification. The introduction of the Nominee Module further strengthens the delivery mechanism for essential nutritional supplies, ensuring continuity of service even in challenging circumstances. This digital approach enhances transparency and accountability in the delivery of Anganwadi services.