Srinagar, 20 February (H.S.): Expressing serious concern over the plight of Anganwadi workers, helpers and ASHAs, CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam, Mohd Yousuf Tarigami urged the Government to release the wages, both the Central and State share of these poor workers pending for several months without any further delay.

In a press statement Tarigami said, the weaker and poorer sections of the society, have been totally neglected by the administration, which has severely hit their means of livelihood. The meagre wages of Anganwadi workers, helpers and ASHAs are not being paid on time, compounding their miseries. The attitude of authorities has created uncertainty among these workers.

The basic issues of recognition, pension and social security are still un-addressed.

Similarly, ASHAs working under NHM perform a range of tasks from community health planning to referral and accompaniment services for reproductive and child health. But unfortunately, they are not being paid any regular remunerations, instead are being forced to work on meagre incentives. These paltry incentives are not being released on time.

“Last year, the Health Department had assured them enhancement of Rs 1000 insensitive from financial year 2024-25, but the same has not been released to all ASHAs. The enhanced incentive is still pending to various Medical blocks,” he added.

Tarigami demanded release of enhanced incentives to all ASHA workers forthwith.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar