Abstract :
Women, as the main agents of primary health care, play an essential role in maintaining
family and community health. Literate women contribute not only for the healthy family but
also for healthy community. Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) in the community act as a bridge
between women in the community and the government to cater to the health needs of the
society. In implementation of health projects, Anganwadi workers (AWWs) playa crucial role.
Therefore,the present study would like to seek answer for “What is the role played by female
health work force specifically by the AWCs in catering to the health needs of the
community?” The study used document analysis, survey with a questionnaire and the
interview as research tools. The study is done in fifteen AWCs of Ramanagara, Karnataka.
Total sample size of the study is 85.
The study found that female literacy is crucial in creating a healthy society. One-third of
health workforce is women and there are significant disparities in literacy among male and
female. It is also found that AWW is an effective change agent in the community. This
platform can be used more effectively by giving communication training. Audio-visuals can
complement and lessen the burden of AWCs.
Keyword :
Health communication, Development, Literacy, Health workforce, Community health, Anganwadi, Effective communication, Rural women.