This paper examines the roles of cadres, or kader, in Indonesia’s stunting reduction programs, emphasizing their position as mediators between state interventions and families while modeling so-called “proper” childcare for other women. It explores how cadres—often older women from marginalized backgrounds—navigate digital bureaucratic systems that prioritize “efficient” governance, often at the expense of inclusivity. These systems overlook structural inequalities and the intersectional vulnerabilities of both the communities cadres serve and their own. While metrics are presented as evidence of effective interventions, they primarily align with the political-economic goals of development planners. Despite this, care provision remains heavily reliant on cadres, who view their work as a contribution to national development, reflecting women’s historical contributions to nation-building and development. Based on ethnographic research in Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, I argue, cadres bridge gaps between state health initiatives and communities, exposing the limitations of governance reliant solely on health statistics. 

Keywords: cadres, metrics, state interventions, stunting, Indonesia