Anganwadi Worker Feted on Retirement After 43 Years

Adilabad: Anganwadi worker Kilaru Radha retired on Sunday after 43 years with the Department of Women and Child Welfare. Her retirement ceremony, held at the Anganwadi centre, was attended by parents, fellow Anganwadi workers, and community members from diverse castes and creeds.

Radha began her service in February 1982 as an Anganwadi worker in the Sonala Boath project and later served in Adilabad Urban until her retirement. Throughout her tenure, she became a role model for many, earning respect for her unwavering commitment to the welfare of children and women.

During the ceremony, parents lauded Radha for her dedication and love towards the children and pregnant women under her care. They highlighted her proactive role in conducting government surveys and her exceptional service during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many women shared memories of Radha’s support during their pregnancies, particularly her efforts in organising the Seemantham ceremony and ensuring their health and well-being.

District officials had earlier recognised Radha as the best Anganwadi worker, commending her outstanding contributions to child development and community health. Her personal touch and compassionate approach fostered strong bonds with the families she served, making her a beloved figure in the community.

Radha retired from her position as an Anganwadi Aaya at the Sundarainagar Colony centre, where she had worked since 1997. In appreciation of her decades of service, parents and children presented her with heartfelt gifts.

One parent shared, “We always felt confident leaving our children with Radha, knowing they were in safe and loving hands until we returned from work.”

In an interaction with the Deccan Chronicle, Kilaru Radha expressed her gratitude, stating, “I continued in this service for so many years with the support of the community. It was challenging at times, but the love and trust from the people made it all worthwhile. I am honoured to have received awards at the national, state, and district levels, as well as recognition as the best Booth Level officer in the 2015 Assembly elections.”

Community leaders and residents praised Radha’s exceptional service, acknowledging the positive impact she had on countless lives over her four-decade-long career. Her legacy of compassion and dedication will continue to inspire future generations of Anganwadi workers.