Yogi Government's Festive Gift: Anganwadi Workers and Assistants in Uttar Pradesh to Receive Three Sarees Annually

In a welfare-driven administrative decision, the Uttar Pradesh government under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has approved a proposal to provide three sarees every year to Anganwadi workers and assistants across the state. Finalized during a high-level cabinet meeting in Lucknow on Friday, October 9, 2026, the initiative aims to enhance professional convenience and provide financial relief to nearly 3.80 million frontline workers.

Expanding Support for 3.80 Lakh Anganwadi Personnel

Previously, Anganwadi workers and helpers received two sarees annually under a 60:40 financial sharing model between the central and state governments. Under the newly revised system:

• State-Funded Additional Saree: The state government will independently bear the cost of the third saree to ensure seamless daily use and maintenance.

• Beneficiary Reach: The decision directly benefits 380,290 approved positions across the state, comprising 1,90,145 Anganwadi workers and an equal number of assistants.

• Financial Outlay: With the cost per saree fixed at ₹500, the state government will incur an estimated total expenditure of ₹19.02 crore (₹19,01,45,000) annually to implement this provision.

Addressing Practical Workplace Needs

Anganwadi workers are required to wear prescribed attire while managing vital grassroots healthcare and nutrition initiatives, including providing supplementary nutrition to children aged six months to six years, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and adolescent girls in aspirational districts.

The decision to introduce an additional yearly saree accounts for the practical challenges of regular daily wear, washing, adverse weather conditions, and accidental staining during field duties, ensuring these frontline workers can carry out their community responsibilities with dignity and comfort.