Women & Child Development Minister Lakshmi Rajwade directs time-bound investigation; technical audit ordered and strict action promised against suppliers
TFP Bureau, Raipur, April 14, 2026: The Chhattisgarh government has ordered a comprehensive investigation into complaints regarding the quality of saris distributed to Anganwadi workers and helpers across several districts of the state. Taking a firm stand on the issue, Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Rajwade has directed officials to conduct a time-bound inquiry and ensure strict action against those found responsible for supplying substandard materials.
Acting on the minister’s instructions, the Women and Child Development Department has initiated immediate administrative steps to address the issue. A formal communication has been issued to the Managing Director of the Chhattisgarh Khadi and Village Industries Board, directing the board to take urgent corrective measures and assist in the ongoing investigation.
According to departmental sources, the saris in question were procured under a purchase order issued during the financial year 2024–25 for distribution among Anganwadi workers and helpers as part of welfare support measures. However, complaints were received from multiple districts alleging that the distributed saris were of inferior quality and did not meet the prescribed standards specified in the procurement guidelines.
Following these complaints, a preliminary departmental inquiry committee was constituted to examine the matter. The committee’s findings confirmed irregularities in certain locations, including deviations in fabric quality and manufacturing standards. In light of these findings, authorities have decided to intensify the probe to identify the exact lapses in the procurement and supply chain.
To ensure an impartial assessment, the government has directed the Khadi and Village Industries Board to deploy a team of technical experts to carry out a fresh and detailed quality audit of the distributed materials. The team will verify whether the saris supplied match the technical specifications mentioned in the original purchase order and whether any violations occurred during production or distribution.
Officials have made it clear that any supplier, agency, or official found responsible for negligence or violation of procurement norms will face strict disciplinary and legal action in accordance with government rules.
In a significant step aimed at protecting the interests of Anganwadi workers and helpers, the government has also ordered the immediate withdrawal of all saris that fail to meet the prescribed standards. These defective items will be replaced with new saris that comply with the approved quality specifications.
The Women and Child Development Department emphasized that the welfare and dignity of Anganwadi workers remain a priority for the state government. Ensuring that beneficiaries receive quality materials under government schemes is essential, officials noted, and any compromise on standards will not be tolerated.
The department also cautioned against the spread of misleading narratives and misinformation surrounding the issue. Authorities stated that the government has taken full cognizance of the matter and is handling the investigation with complete transparency, accountability, and seriousness.
The inquiry is expected to be completed within a stipulated timeframe, after which appropriate action will be taken against those responsible for the lapses. The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency in public procurement and ensuring that welfare initiatives reach beneficiaries in the intended manner.
