**Question:** Which is FALSE regarding Anganwadi worker: September 2012

**Correct Answer:** **Anganwadi worker is a nurse.**

**Core Concept:** Anganwadi Worker (AWW) is a vital part of the Indian Government's Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. AWWs are responsible for the overall development of children and pregnant and lactating mothers in their assigned area. The AIIMS training manual defines the role of an AWW as:

"An Anganwadi Worker (AWW) is a community health worker who works in the Anganwadi Centre (AWC) under the ICDS project. The AWW is responsible for the overall development of children and pregnant and lactating mothers in her/his assigned area."

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** The correct answer states that an Anganwadi Worker (AWW) is not a nurse. In India, Nurses are Registered Nurses (RNs) or Registered Nurse (RN) who have completed their Bachelor of Nursing (BN) or Master of Nursing (MN) degree programs. AWWs, on the other hand, are trained at the Certificate level under the ICDS program, focusing on child and maternal health.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. Angolanwadi Worker is a doctor: This is incorrect as AWWs are trained at a Certificate level, focusing on child and maternal health, whereas doctors are medical practitioners with MBBS degrees.

B. Angolanwadi Worker is a physiotherapist: Similar to option A, physiotherapists are healthcare professionals with specialized education in physical rehabilitation techniques, while AWWs are trained for child and maternal health.

C. Angolanwadi Worker is a health visitor: While AWWs do work in the community and engage in health promotion activities, they are not specifically trained as health visitors. Their role is focused on child and maternal health.

D. Angolanwadi Worker is a teacher: AWWs primarily work on child and maternal health, not as teachers. Their role is focused on promoting early childhood development and providing nutrition support to children, mothers, and pregnant women.

**Clinical Pearls:**

1. Understanding the role of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) is essential for healthcare professionals working in India, as AWWs are key components of the ICDS project and are involved in child and maternal health promotion activities.
2. The ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) project is a comprehensive program aimed at improving maternal, infant, and child health in India. It focuses on nutrition, health, and pre-school education.
3. The role of AWWs includes conducting health check-ups, providing nutrition education, and referring cases to higher healthcare facilities when necessary.
4. The ICDS project is a collaborative effort between the central and state governments, aiming to ensure that children under six years of age receive proper nutrition, health care, and pre-school education.
5. Understanding the role of AWWs in the ICDS