Anganwadi workers’ struggle for fair wages: A call for justice

Anganwadi workers in Andhra Pradesh have been vocal about their demands for better wages and working conditions. Their persistent protests highlight systemic issues that require immediate attention from both state and central governments.

The backbone of rural childcare

Anganwadi workers play a pivotal role in India’s rural healthcare and education system. Established under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) in 1975, Anganwadi centers provide essential services such as supplementary nutrition, preschool education, and health check-ups. Despite their critical contributions, these workers often receive meager compensation and lack formal employment benefits.

Demands for fair compensation

In Andhra Pradesh, approximately 100,000 Anganwadi workers initiated a strike on December 12, 2022, which lasted for 42 days. Their primary demand was a salary increase to Rs 26,000 per month. This figure aligns with the rising cost of living and reflects the significant responsibilities these workers shoulder. The strike concluded on January 23, 2023, after the state government agreed to a wage hike and promised insurance coverage. However, many workers feel that these measures are insufficient and have yet to be fully implemented.

Challenges beyond wages

Beyond inadequate salaries, Anganwadi workers face numerous challenges:

Delayed gratuity and benefits: Many workers report delays in receiving gratuity payments and other promised benefits, leading to financial instability.

Operational hurdles: Issues such as malfunctioning mobile applications for data entry and lack of promotions hinder their efficiency and morale.

Political harassment: There have been instances where workers face intimidation and undue pressure from local authorities, affecting their ability to perform duties effectively.

Comparative perspective

The plight of Anganwadi workers is not unique to Andhra Pradesh. In Delhi, for instance, workers have organized protests demanding better remuneration and official recognition as government employees. Despite their crucial role, they are often labeled as volunteers, denying them rightful benefits and job security.

Government initiatives and the road ahead

The Indian government has acknowledged the challenges faced by Anganwadi workers. In the 2022 budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced salary increases, setting the monthly pay at Rs 20,105 for workers and Rs 10,000 for helpers. While this is a step forward, disparities between states and delays in implementation persist.

Moreover, in September 2024, the central government announced a marginal increase in minimum wages for informal sector workers, including those in agriculture. Unskilled workers are now entitled to a daily wage of Rs 783, semi-skilled workers Rs 868, and highly skilled workers Rs 1,035. While this adjustment aims to address the rising cost of living, Anganwadi workers argue that their specialized roles warrant higher compensation.

Anganwadi workers are the linchpins of India’s rural child development infrastructure. Ensuring fair wages, timely benefits, and a respectful working environment is not just a matter of policy but of justice. Both state and central governments must collaborate to address these issues, recognizing the invaluable service these workers provide to the nation’s future generations.

The views expressed in this column are those of Ecclesiastes, the Omnivoyant Observer.