Anganwadi Workers Demand Gratuity and Pension in Himachal Pradesh Protest

Hundreds of Anganwadi workers in Himachal Pradesh protested at the state Secretariat for gratuity, pension, and improved service conditions. Organized by the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union, they warned of escalating their agitation if their demands, including EPF coverage, are not met. Protesters emphasized the lack of financial security post-retirement.

Hundreds of Anganwadi workers and helpers staged a protest at Himachal Pradesh's Secretariat on Monday, pressing for essential benefits including gratuity, pension, and EPF. Organized by the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union, the demonstration spotlighted decades of overlooked contributions to child welfare and community health services.

Sudarshana Sharma, Vice-President of the Anganwadi Workers Association, addressed the rally, highlighting the long-standing struggle for rights and the minimal support from successive governments. "Despite nearly 50 years of service, Anganwadi workers have received neither adequate wages nor allowances," Sharma stressed, underscoring the lack of substantial financial acknowledgment from the Central Government.

Sharma shed light on the financial precarity faced by retired Anganwadi workers. "Upon retirement, workers receive no financial security, such as pension, gratuity, or EPF benefits. It's an injustice that needs addressing," Sharma pointed out. Advocacy for gratuity benefits akin to those provided in Kerala was emphasized as a key demand.

The union, representing nearly 36,000 workers in the state, is also pushing for enhanced pension benefits and EPF coverage. Sharma voiced concern over the absence of support for families of workers who die in service. "Without addressing these demands, we will escalate our protests," she warned, urging government engagement.

The protest saw fervent sloganeering, urging immediate government dialogue to map out a pathway for the implementation of these overdue welfare measures. Sharma affirmed the protests would persist until the government acknowledged and fulfilled their demands for financial justice and social security.