The Ministry of Women and Child Development has introduced the National Minimum Standards and Protocol for Crèches (Operation and Management).
According to the ministry, these guidelines respond to longstanding demands and aim to standardise and institutionalise the care economy.
The key features of the new regulations include defining a crèche as a safe environment for children while their parents work.
It outlines parameters for setting up a crèche such as age criteria, infrastructure, and facilities like child-friendly washrooms and CCTV cameras. The regulations also mandate the constitution of a crèche administrative committee (CAC) responsible for management and dispute resolution.
Staff requirements have been specified, with a ratio of one supervisor and one helper for every 25-30 children.
Only women can be hired as caregivers, with specific educational qualifications and experience in childcare, nursing or education sectors. Service provision is to be agreed on by providers and parents, with monthly meetings for feedback.
Crèche workers are also responsible for maintaining records and ensuring health and safety standards, including having a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and CCTV cameras.
