Anganwadi workers call off 42-day strike, return to work as AP Govt concedes 10demands

AMARAVATHI: Anganwadi workers in Andhra Pradesh have reached an agreement with the state government, ending their 42-day strike.

Through constant negotiation and communication, the government has agreed to address 10 of the 11 crucial demands put forth by the Anganwadi workers.

“It is crucial to highlight that the opposition parties have been trying to incite Anganwadis and spread false propaganda throughout the duration of the strike. The government has consistently demonstrated empathy and a commitment that has been extended beyond merely meeting demands, as it actively maintained communication with the Anganwadis throughout the course of the strike. This cooperative stance was reciprocated by Anganwadis who, in due course, acknowledged the attempts made by the opposition parties to politicize the strike and understood the government's perspective,” observed Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy, Advisor to the Government.

“Opposition leader and TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu, his son Lokesh, and JSP Chief Pawan Kalyan have regularly made comments aimed at inflaming tensions. The Anganwadis, in a commendable display of wisdom, have chosen to follow the path of prudence by calling off the strike, thereby thwarting divisive attempts,”

said Minister Botcha Satyanarayana.

Here is a breakdown of the key outcomes from the agreements reached:

- The implementation of salary increments is scheduled for July next year, in line with a mutual agreement.

- Life insurance coverage, including a 2-lakh accident insurance policy, will be extended to Anganwadi workers and helpers starting this year.

- The age limit for the appointment of Anganwadi assistants has been increased from 45 years to 50 years, as per G.O.MS:44 dated 20.12.2023.

- Anganwadi workers will be eligible for Travel Allowance (TA) and Dearness Allowance (DA) on a monthly and bi-monthly basis, respectively, as per Government order, dt. 20.12.2023.

- The upper age limit for the continued service of Anganwadi workers and helpers has been set at 62 years.

- In accordance with G.O.MS. No:47 dated 20.12.2023, the government has approved end-of-service benefits, providing Rs. 1 lakh to Anganwadi workers and Rs. 40,000 to helpers who complete 62 years of age in the state, meeting the demands set forth.

- Rs. 66.54 Crore fund has been sanctioned for Anganwadi centers located in rented buildings.

- An allocation of Rs. 7.81 crore has been sanctioned for 55,607 centers to address sanitation requirements.

- An allocation of Rs. 6.36 crores have been released for 21,206 Anganwadi Centers at a rate of Rs. 3000/- per center to cover maintenance expenses, including painting walls and minor repairs.