Digital Transformation of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme: Potential Benefits and Roadblocks in Pulwama District of Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

The Indian government initiated the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme to meet the nutritional, health and development needs of children up to age six, pregnant women and nursing mothers. It is a major building block in India’s social welfare program. To make services better, easier to watch and more transparent, the ICDS is introducing digital tools as part of India’s digital move ahead. The study explores how the ICDS scheme’s shift to digital technology allows rural populations easier access, quicker data updates for executives and more efficient delivery of services. It also examines ways in which data analytics, internet tools and mobile applications have contributed to managing ICDS Workers’ tasks. The study does, however, also identify a number of roadblocks to effective digital integration, including problems with digital literacy, lack of trained ICDS staff infrastructure gaps, and other gaps. This paper offers a thorough understanding of how technology can transform one of the World's biggest important welfare programs for children and women while providing insights into the policy measures required to overcome its obstacles by analysing the opportunities and challenges associated with the digital transformation of ICDS.