Thu Mar 06 23:32:00 UTC 2025: **Tamil Nadu Anganwadi Workers Protest Facial Recognition System for Nutrition Kit Distribution**
Chennai, March 7, 2025 – Anganwadi workers in Tamil Nadu are protesting a new facial recognition system implemented for the distribution of nutritious kits under the Integrated Child Development Services scheme. The system, mandated by the central government, requires pregnant and lactating mothers to register on the Poshan Tracker app and have their photos uploaded each time they collect their Take Home Ration (THR).
However, widespread technical issues, including slow and frequently down servers and malfunctioning government-provided phones, are causing significant delays and frustration. Anganwadi workers report waiting times of over an hour for photo uploads, forcing them to use their personal phones and often calling beneficiaries late at night to complete the verification process. This has led to complaints from beneficiaries who find the process overly burdensome and time-consuming, with some even considering abandoning the program entirely.
The Tamil Nadu Anganwadi Employees and Helpers Association has called on the state government to remove the facial recognition requirement, citing the impracticality and increased workload. While the central government implemented the system to curb pilferage, a Social Welfare Department official acknowledged the technical issues and stated that they are working with the Centre to resolve them. The situation highlights the challenges of implementing technology-driven solutions without adequate infrastructure and consideration for the practical realities on the ground.
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