Delhi govt plans to set up creche at its Secretariat

NEW DELHI: The Delhi government is planning to set up a children's creche at its secretariat for the convenience of its women employees, officials said Wednesday. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has asked the department of women and child development to submit the plan by June 15. "It is a matter of great pride that a large number of workforce in the Delhi government consists of women. However, work-life balance for such women, especially working mothers, is not easy and it is the responsibility of employer organisations to improve working conditions for women.

"It has been brought to my notice by my colleagues at the Delhi Secretariat that a creche for children of working parents at the Delhi Secretariat is needed," Sisodia said in a letter to the secretary of the

department. He directed the Secretary (WCD) to explore the possibilities and feasibility of a creche at the Delhi Secretariat. "A meeting may be convened at the level of Secretary WCD with concerned departments for making a plan for opening a creche in the Delhi Secretariat," the letter said.

People from across the spectrum hailed the decision. CPIML leader Kavitha Krishnan Tweeted, "This is a very welcome move by the Delhi government. It should be mandatory to introduce creches for working parents in all workplaces, and government workplaces should take the lead all over India."

The women employees who work in the Delhi government also welcomed the step. "I come from Dwarka and keep my daughter at her grandmother's place and while going back from work I take her home. It would be really nice if she can come with me and stay here. We can have lunch together at least," said an employee.