Abstract

Non formal Preschool education is an important component of Integrated Child Development Services scheme currently operational in more than 6506 projects in India The present research paper is based on an investigation of this component in ICDS centres of Jammu district of Jammu and Kashmir state A random sample of 60 Anganwadi centres AWCs was selected for this study Using observation and interview schedule the infrastructural facilities available and the conduct of preschool education activities were evaluated The results indicate lack of adequate facilities in terms of space both indoor and outdoor quality of accommodation drinking water and toilet facilities furniture and fixtures and teaching learning material in AWCs Preschool education activities were being planned and conducted by the AWWs on a routine basis but the activities were mostly repetitive and lacked novelty Non availability of adequate infrastructure was found to be an active deterrent in conduct of activities It is thus suggested that better infrastructural facilities be made available to bring about qualitative change in the ICDS programme