Senior CPI (M) leader M Y Tarigami has urged the State government to release the pending wages of Anganwadi workers and helpers without any further delay.
“Although Anganwadi workers and helpers have forced the Uniongovernment to announce an increase in their remuneration, the basic issues ofrecognition, pension and social security have still not been addressed. The meagre hike in wages is not going toaddress the burning issues of Anganwadi workers and helpers, as their familiesare dependent on them,” Tarigami said in a statement.
He said that the government recently enhanced the honorariumin favour of these workers/helpers to Rs. 5100 and 2550 respectively; howeverthe announcement of PDP-led government in last Budget session to enhance thehonorarium of Anganwadi workers by Rs 500 has not been fulfilled till date.
The administrative apathy towards their genuine issues isagainst justice and fair play. Social security benefits including promotion,gratuity, pension, provident fund, medical facilities, etc., should be providedto all Anganwadi workers and helpers, Tarigami said.
He also cautioned the Government to stop the move tointroduce direct/ conditional cash transfers and packaged food in ICDS. TheICDS is a unique outreach programme to meet the nutritional needs of crores ofchildren under the age of six and to improve the nutrition levels of pregnantand lactating mothers from the most vulnerable sections of our society.