In a powerful display of unity, hundreds of Anganwadi workers and helpers in Rajasthan’s Rajsamand district gathered at the collectorate on Wednesday, raising their voices against years of neglect. Under the banner of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, the women marched to the district headquarters, chanting slogans and submitting a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister through the District Collector.
These frontline workers, who play a crucial role in child nutrition, health check-ups, and early education programs, claim they are overburdened with tasks from at least six government departments. Yet, they receive a meager Rs 4,500 monthly honorarium with zero resources or facilities provided. Retirement brings no pension, leaving them vulnerable after decades of service.
Kavita Bairagi, one of the protesting workers, passionately stated, ‘We demand permanent status instead of being treated as mere honorarium recipients. Our jobs have no fixed hours, and we’re saddled with extra departmental work. How can a woman support her family on Rs 4,500?’
Manju Kanwar echoed the frustration, pointing out that despite budget allocations, Anganwadi workers remain at the bottom of priorities. ‘The government is oppressing us. Either raise our minimum pay to Rs 18,000 or declare us salaried employees with pension benefits upon retirement,’ she demanded.
The workers have issued an ultimatum: immediate action on their demands or they will lock Anganwadi centers across the district in a mass protest. This escalation signals a breaking point for these essential workers, whose contributions touch millions of children but whose pleas have long been ignored by authorities.
As Rajasthan grapples with social welfare challenges, this movement highlights deeper systemic issues in honoring grassroots labor. Will the government respond before centers shut down?