ICDS Through the Lens of Doughnut Economics India
Anganwadis and the Social Foundation: Applying Doughnut Economics to Fifty Years of ICDS in India A Policy Perspective
This article analyses the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) through the lens of Doughnut Economics, drawing on the framework articulated by Kate Raworth. In “Nurturing Young: Fifty Years of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in India,” Dr. Jos Chathukulam and Manasi Joseph conceptualise Anganwadi centres as institutions strengthening the inner social foundation of the Doughnut. By delivering nutrition, immunisation, early childhood education, and maternal support, ICDS addresses essential social metrics such as health, food security, education, gender equity and social inclusion. The paper argues that ICDS possesses the potential to function as an engine of Doughnut Economics, contributing to a “safe and just space” for vulnerable children and communities across India. Reference: Chathukulam, Jos& Joseph, Manasi.(2025), " Nurturing Young: Fifty Years of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in India", Indian Public Policy Review, Vol. 6 No. 4 ,https://ippr.in/index.php/ippr/article/view/422
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