Jharkhand’s Social Welfare Minister Commits to Addressing Anganwadi Workers’ Concerns
11.01.24
In a significant breakthrough, the Jharkhand State Non-Gazetted Employees Federation (JSNGEF) has successfully secured a commitment from Mrs. Joba Majhi, Jharkhand’s Social Welfare Minister, to address the urgent demands of community and care (Anganwadi) workers. The pivotal meeting, convened on January 10th, 2024, in Ranchi, witnessed JSNGEF General Secretary Mr. Ashok Kumar Singh, presenting a compelling case for the improvement of working conditions and fair compensation for these essential community and childcare workers.
The crux of the meeting centered on demand, that advocates for the rectification of errors in Anganwadi Sevika Sahayika rules, augmented central share funding, timely salary disbursements with the clearance of arrears, and revised pay scales inclusive of comprehensive benefits. Additionally, the reinstatement of retrenched Poshan Sakhi (nutrition) workers as contractual employees emerged as a crucial point of discussion.
Mr. Ashok Kumar Singh, underscored JSNGEF’s dedication to peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement, stating, “Our sisters in the care sector deserve respect and fair value for their essential work. We believe in dialogue and will utilize all necessary union channels to ensure their legitimate demands are met.”
Rajendra Acharya, UNI Asia & Pacific, Regional Secretary said “We commend JSNGEF’s approach of open communication and gentle negotiation. Such interactions are vital for unions to achieve positive outcomes by allowing both sides to understand each other’s concerns and collaboratively work towards solutions that benefit both workers and the management/government.”
Mrs. Joba Majhi, Jharkhand’s Social Welfare Minister’s commitment and the optimistic atmosphere of the discussion, Anganwadi workers in the state can now anticipate a prompt resolution to their longstanding grievances. This development marks a significant step towards improved working conditions, ensuring that these dedicated individuals receive the recognition and remuneration they rightfully deserve.
