Vadakkancherry: Beneficiaries who avail of Anganwadi nutritional supplements must now provide a photograph at the time of collection. This step ensures that the supplies reach the intended recipients and helps to maintain accurate records.

The Department of Women and Child Development introduced this rule following complaints that some supplies were not reaching actual beneficiaries. The 'Poshan Tracker' app, launched three years ago, now includes a feature to capture real-time photos during distribution.

Along with the photo, an OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number linked to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar. The process is complete only when the OTP is submitted in the app.

The nutritional supplementary items, like amrutham powder, ragi, wheat, and jaggery, which are distributed through Anganwadi, are intended to reach beneficiaries like children from the age group 6 months to 3 years, pregnant women, breast-feeding mothers, and girls in adolescence

Previously, family members could collect the supplies on behalf of beneficiaries, but now mothers should come in person. Anganwadi workers are concerned about possible online system issues causing delays.