The minimum prescribed qualification is matriculation and the age limit is 18–35 years for the engagement of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers.

Smriti Zubin Irani, the Union Minister for Women and Child Development, provided information about the standards for hiring Anganwadi employees in a reply in the Rajya Sabha today. The government also stated that no proposal to raise the pay of Anganwadi employees is currently being considered.

Under the Anganwadi Services Scheme, an organisation formed by the state or union territory (UT) administration selects Anganwadi employees from the surrounding community. According to the requirements, matriculation is the minimum need for Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers, and the age range is 18 to 35. (AWHs). According to the ministry, “AWWs and AWHs are paid monthly honoraria as decided by the Government from time to time, which is uniform in all States/UTs. They are considered honorary workers.” An honorarium of Rs 4,500 is paid to AWWs at leading Anganwadi Centers (AWCs), Rs 3,500 to AWWs at mini-AWCs, and Rs 2,250 to AWHs each month. Also, performance linked incentive of Rs 250 per month is paid to AWHs and Rs 500 per month to AWWs.”

State governments also use their own funds to provide these employees with additional financial incentives or honoraria. The ministry advised that no proposal to raise the pay of anganwadi workers is currently being considered.