Bhubaneswar, Feb 29: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has unveiled a significant increase in the monthly remuneration for Anganwadi workers and helpers across the state, signaling a boost in support for these crucial frontline workers.
Under this initiative, Patnaik has announced that in addition to the rise in monthly pay, Anganwadi workers and helpers will now receive social security assistance, along with enhanced post-retirement incentives. This move is set to directly benefit approximately 1.48 lakh Anganwadi workers, mini Anganwadi workers, and helpers. According to a statement released by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the state government is allocating an extra Rs 350 crore annually to facilitate these enhancements.
The decision to increase remuneration comes after Anganwadi workers raised their concerns during interactions with Kartik Pandian, the chairman of the 5T initiative, during his recent visits to various districts.
As per the new arrangements, the monthly remuneration for Anganwadi workers has been raised from Rs 7,500 to Rs 10,000, while mini Anganwadi workers will now receive Rs 7,250 instead of the previous Rs 5,375. Similarly, helpers will see an increase to Rs 5,000 from Rs 3,750.
These revised remunerations will be applied retrospectively from October 2023, with the increased amounts being disbursed from February onwards. Incremental payments covering the period from October 2023 to January 2024 will be credited to the bank accounts of workers and helpers between March 5 and 10.
Furthermore, the incentive structure under the exit policy for Anganwadi employees has been revamped, set to take effect from April 1, 2024. Under the revised scheme, Anganwadi workers will now receive Rs 1 lakh, up from Rs 40,000 previously, while mini Anganwadi workers and helpers will receive Rs 75,000 and Rs 50,000 respectively, increased from Rs 30,000 and Rs 20,000.
Additionally, the government has announced ex-gratia payments of Rs 2 lakh in the event of death or physical disability resulting from an accident for workers and helpers, effective from April 1, 2024. Partial disability will also be covered, with the government offering up to Rs 1 lakh in support.
