New Delhi: In a recent development, the Minister of Women and Child Development, Shrimati Smriti Zubin Irani, provided a detailed account of the measures taken by the government for the welfare and development of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs). The information was shared in a written reply in Rajya Sabha, shedding light on various initiatives aimed at uplifting and supporting these crucial members of the community.
As of December 31, 2023, the country had 13,48,135 Anganwadi workers and 10,23,068 Anganwadi helpers. The government, through the Anganwadi Services scheme, has been actively engaging with State Governments and UT Administrations to address the issue of vacant posts at various levels.
The government has urged States and UTs to adopt a uniform retirement date of 30th April each year for Anganwadi Workers and Helpers to ensure effective human resource planning.
Since October 1, 2018, the government has increased the honorarium for AWWs at main-AWCs from Rs. 3,000/- to Rs. 4,500/- per month, and for AWHs from Rs. 1,500/- to Rs. 2,250/- per month. Performance-linked incentives have also been introduced to motivate AWWs and AWHs.
In a move to provide better career opportunities, promotional opportunities for Anganwadi Workers have been enhanced, allowing 50% of Anganwadi Workers’ posts to be filled by promoting Anganwadi Helpers with 5 years of experience. The government has also facilitated paid maternity leave, annual leave, and the provision of uniforms for AWWs and AWHs.
Additionally, insurance benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) have been extended to Anganwadi Workers and Helpers. The government has also provided insurance cover under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package for those engaged in COVID-19 related tasks.
Furthermore, the government is encouraging eligible AWWs and AWHs to enroll in the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan (PM-SYM) Pension Scheme for old age protection.
The integration of technology through the Poshan Tracker application has brought transparency and efficiency to Anganwadi Centres, empowering workers with smartphones and digitizing their work processes.
In the interim budget for 2024-25, the government announced the expansion of Ayushman Bharat to include all Anganwadi Workers and Helpers across the country, providing health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary medical care.
These comprehensive measures underline the government’s commitment to the well-being and professional development of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, acknowledging their vital role in community welfare.