women & child welfare

National Creche Scheme - Working Mothers

Complete 2026 guide to Creche Scheme: 7,000 creches for 17 lakh children of working mothers with ₹6/day meal + toys.

Last updated: 3/12/2026
National Creche Scheme - Working Mothers

Overview

The National Creche Scheme is a vital government initiative designed to support working women by providing safe, well-equipped daycare centers (creches) for their young children. By 2026, the program aims to run up to 7,000 creches to support over 17 lakh children, ensuring mothers can work with peace of mind. Why Was This Scheme Launched? Studies show that nearly 40% of women drop out of the workforce after giving birth because they lack reliable childcare. The National Creche Scheme was launched to solve this problem by providing safe, high-quality daycare for children aged 0-6 years. Thanks to this initiative, there has already been a 25% increase in women keeping their jobs after having children. 🌟 What Are the Main Benefits? These creches are designed for the complete well-being and safety of the child: Nutritional Support: Each child receives supplementary meals, backed by a ₹6 per child/day meal allowance to ensure they get healthy food. Child Development & Comfort: The centers are equipped with sleeping cots, learning toys, and play materials to keep children comfortable and engaged. Safety & Security: CCTV cameras are mandatory in these facilities so that parents can be assured their children are heavily monitored and safe. Trained Caregivers: Children are looked after by properly trained aayas (caregivers) who understand early childhood needs.

Who is Eligible?

  • Child's Age: The child must be between 6 months and 6 years old.
  • Mother's Employment: The mother must be a working woman (applicable across all states and industries).
  • Center Requirements: To open a cluster, there must be a minimum of 50 children needing care in that industrial or local area.
  • Operating Hours: The creche must remain open and provide service for a minimum of 8 hours a day to match working shifts.
  • Management: The creche must be run by approved NGOs or official mother committees.

Documents Required

  • Proof of Mother's Employment (to verify she is working)
  • Child's Birth Certificate
  • Family Aadhaar Cards
  • Space Lease Agreement (for the NGO/agency setting up the creche)
  • Staff Qualification Certificates (to prove the aayas are trained)

How to Apply

  1. 1Step 1: Proposal Submission – An NGO or government agency submits a formal proposal to open a creche at wcd.nic.in/creche.
  2. 2Step 2: Site Inspection – An official committee visits the proposed location to make sure it is safe and suitable for children.
  3. 3Step 3: Grant Release – The government releases funds to buy equipment like sleeping cots, CCTV cameras, and toys.
  4. 4Step 4: Staff Training – The hired aayas (caregivers) undergo a mandatory 3-month training program.
  5. 5Step 5: Daily Upkeep – The creche officially opens, and staff must maintain a strict daily nutrition and attendance register.
  6. 6Step 6: Ongoing Monitoring – A monthly inspection report is filed to ensure the creche is safely and properly maintaining its standards.

Frequently Asked Questions