National Creche Scheme — Free Daycare for Working Mothers

What is the National Creche Scheme?

The National Creche Scheme (formerly Rajiv Gandhi National Creche Scheme) is a Government of India programme under the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) that provides free or affordable daycare for children aged 6 months to 6 years of working/employed mothers. The scheme runs through creche centres managed by approved NGOs, which are funded by the government.

Key Benefits

Who is Eligible?

The child is eligible if:

• Age is between 6 months and 6 years
• The mother is a working woman — employed, self-employed, or a casual labourer
• The family's income is up to ₹12,000/month (check current income limits at your state WCD office — limits vary)

Priority is given to:

• Children of BPL families — avail creche services free of cost
• Children of migrant workers
• Children in difficult circumstances

Documents Required

1. Child's birth certificate — proof of age
2. Mother's identity proof — Aadhaar, voter card
3. Proof of employment — work ID, self-employment declaration, or MGNREGS job card
4. Income certificate — from competent authority
5. Photograph — of child and mother

How to Find and Enroll in a Creche

Step 1 — Find a Creche Near You

Creches are run by approved NGOs/voluntary organizations in residential areas, urban slums, and industrial areas. To find a creche:

• Contact your District Women and Child Development Officer (CDPO/DPO)
• Visit the nearest ICDS Anganwadi centre — they often know of nearby creches
• Contact the Women and Child Development Department in your district

Step 2 — Verify if the Creche has Vacant Seats

Each government-funded creche typically serves 25 children. Creches in high-demand areas may have waiting lists.

Step 3 — Submit Enrollment Form

Submit to the creche Warden/In-charge:

• Child's documents (birth certificate, photographs)
• Mother's employment and income proof
• Aadhaar copies

Step 4 — Enroll and Pay Fee (if applicable)

• BPL families: No fee
• Non-BPL families: ₹20/day

The creche begins providing services from the enrollment date.

Services Provided at Creche Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

1. I am a domestic worker. Is my child eligible for the creche scheme?

Yes. Domestic workers, construction workers, agricultural labourers, and other informal sector workers are specifically targeted by this scheme. Your employment can be shown through a self-declaration if you don't have a formal employment letter.

2. The creche near my house is closed. What do I do?

Contact the District WCD officer / CDPO. If a funded creche has closed without authorization, it is a serious issue. The WCD department can investigate and restart the creche or help you find an alternative.

3. My daughter is 5 years old and already going to Anganwadi. Should I also enroll her in a creche?

If you are a working mother who needs care during the full day (8 hours+), a creche is better suited than Anganwadi (which typically runs for 3–4 hours). If the Anganwadi meets your needs, additional enrollment in a creche may not be necessary.

4. How many creche centres are there in India?

The government funds approximately 17,000+ creche centres across India through approved voluntary organizations. Availability varies significantly by state and district.

5. Is there an online portal to apply for the creche scheme?

Currently, enrollment is done directly through the creche centre or District WCD office. A centralized online portal is not available for all states — contact your state WCD department.

Official Links