Mohali, Nov. 1 -- A surprise inspection by Punjab State Food Commission member Vijay Dutt in Balongi on Friday exposed a shocking lapse. An Anganwadi centre in Azad Nagar, meant to function from its designated government site, was instead being run out of a helper's private residence.

Officials found that the centre's infrastructure had effectively been displaced after the original panchayat-allotted land was sold off by private individuals. The centre, meant to serve local children and mothers under the Integrated Child Development Scheme, was being operated from helper Kundan Devi's home, leaving no proper space for children or storage of government materials.

Operated by Anganwadi workers and helpers, these centres provide a comprehe...