National Creche Scheme (Palna)
Day-care support for children of working mothers
Government
Central Government
Who it’s for
Working Mothers (via their children)
Application mode
In-person at Anganwadi/Crèche centre
Processing time
Enrolment is generally quick, subject to seat availability at the local centre.
Deadline / renewal
No fixed deadline; the child remains enrolled until ageing out at 6 years or the mother's employment status changes.
What it provides
Day-care facilities (crèche) for children (6 months-6 years) of working mothers, including sleeping, health check-up, supplementary nutrition and pre-school education.
Benefits breakdown
Who’s eligible
Children of working mothers (employed, self-employed or seeking employment) with family income within prescribed limits.
Documents required
- Mother's employment/self-employment proof (or proof of job-seeking/training)
- Child's birth certificate
- Aadhaar card of mother and child (if available)
- Family income proof
How to apply
In-person / offline
- Locate the nearest Anganwadi-cum-Crèche (AWCC)/Palna centre through your local Anganwadi worker or district WCD office
- Submit mother's employment proof, child's birth certificate and income documents
- Enrol the child; centre provides daily day-care, nutrition and basic health monitoring
Helpline
Contact your local Anganwadi worker or district WCD office
FAQs
Is this free?
Services are largely free or heavily subsidised; exact user charges (if any) vary by state/implementing agency.
What age range is covered?
Children from 6 months to 6 years of age.
Last verified 31 August 2026