Anganwadi Workers, Andhra Pradesh, Wage Hike, Retirement Benefit It wouldn’t be any remarkable decision if the cash-rich Telangana government grants sops to its Anganwadi workers, but certainly it would be a remarkable decision if the cash-strapped AP government takes similar decision.

Andhra Pradesh government has constituted a Cabinet Sub-committee for studying the demands of its Anganwadi workers for wage hike and other benefits. Woman and Child Welfare Minister Peethala Sujatha, a member in this sub-committee said that the committee is very positive about their demands and it is likely to submit its report to the state government very soon.

She said the Chief Minister has already announced a retirement benefits of Rs. 50, 000 to Anganwadi workers and Rs. 20, 000 to helpers. Once, the Sub-committee submits its reports, she assured that Anganwadi workers’ wages also will be increased. She said that the state government is planning to transform the Anganwadi centers into multipurpose service platform, with which Anganwadi workers and the people also would benefit.

She said the state government is planning to provide two-wheelers to ASHA workers to reach the people living in remote villages. They will try to educate the people about nutrition. They will also immunize the school going children and encourage the parents to send their drop-out children back to schools. It helps the state government to have their feedback about the situation in the remote villages and allot sufficient funds for development and welfare programs accordingly.