In a move aimed at easing the burden on working women and encouraging childbirth in a society grappling with rising costs and shrinking support systems, the Andhra Pradesh government is planning to establish creches (child care centres) in government offices across the state. The initiative is part of a broader push by the coalition government to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women, and encourage birth rate.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, while acknowledging the population decline and the challenges faced by working mothers,  highlighted the urgent need for workplace-based child care solutions. In today’s fast-paced and economically demanding world, both parents often need to be employed, leaving child care as one of the most pressing issues for young families, resulting in many being reluctant to start a family in these situations, thereby causing a decline in birth rate.

“In the past, grandparents and extended family helped raise children at home. But with more nuclear families and urban migration for employment, that support system has eroded,” the Chief Minister noted in a recent address. “Women now bear the dual burden of work and child care, which directly impacts their productivity and mental well-being. Creches are our response to that.”

Taking cue from the successful model creche already operating at the State Secretariat in Amaravati, the Department of Women and Child Welfare has drawn up proposals for the establishment of child care centres in 216 government locations across the state. These include offices with more than 100 female employees, such as, District Collectorates, Government hospitals, Judiciary offices, Zilla Parishad offices, Municipal and civic body offices, Headquarters of major state departments.

The proposals have been submitted to the state government for approval, and a separate report has also been sent to the Centre seeking assistance and funding support.

The proposed creches will cater to children aged six months and above and will be housed, wherever possible, within government buildings themselves. Staffed by trained caregivers and assistants, these centres will feature child-friendly amenities such as toys, weighing machines, swings, beds, refrigerators, dedicated toilets, and proper furniture.

Parents will be allowed to bring home-prepared meals for their children, ensuring continuity in diet and comfort. This approach not only offers convenience to working parents but also reinforces child health and safety.

This policy initiative also aligns with broader demographic concerns voiced by the state government. With declining birth rates in many parts of the country and growing concerns about an aging population, the AP government sees creche facilities as a vital step to make parenthood more manageable and appealing for young couples.

“Supporting working mothers is not just about convenience, it’s about dignity, opportunity, and the future of our workforce. Through this initiative, we’re not only improving the workplace but also strengthening families,” said the Chief Minister.

The government has committed to expanding the program based on feedback and success metrics from the first phase of implementation.