Jamshedpur: Purnima Sahu, the MLA from Jamshedpur East, raised critical questions in the Jharkhand Assembly regarding the honorarium, workload, and facilities provided to Anganwadi workers (Sevikas) and assistants (Sahayikas). She expressed deep dissatisfaction with the government’s response to her inquiries.
In response to MLA Purnima Sahu’s questions, the government acknowledged that a total of 75,411 personnel—comprising 38,027 Anganwadi Sevikas and 37,384 Sahayikas—are currently employed on an honorarium basis across various centres in the state. The government also admitted that these workers are assigned additional duties, including Booth Level Officer (BLO) tasks, census work, and verification for the Maiya Samman Yojana.
Discrepancy in Honorarium and Funding
Regarding compensation, the government stated that Sevikas receive ₹11,500 per month, while Sahayikas receive ₹5,750 per month, with annual increments of ₹500 and ₹250, respectively, effective every July. According to the state, the Government of India contributes 23.4% of this honorarium, with the state bearing the remaining cost.
MLA Purnima Sahu challenged these figures, asserting that the actual funding ratio is 60% from the Central Government and 40% from the State. She accused the state government of shifting blame onto the Centre despite funds being provided on time. She further alleged that workers face financial crises because their payments are consistently delayed by two to three months.
Fuel Costs and LPG Issues
On the issue of cooking fuel for nutritional meals, the government denied that the rate was a flat 13 paise per child. It stated that 35,522 centers have LPG connections with refilling funds provided, while the remaining 3,435 centers are in the process of getting connections. For centers without gas, a maximum of ₹0.13 per child per meal is provided for firewood.
However, Purnima Sahu pointed out that cylinders are often unavailable because gas agencies are not paid on time, leading to delays in providing meals to women and children.
Demands for Digital Upgrades
The MLA also criticized the current digital infrastructure. She noted that Sevikas have been provided with 4G mobile phones, which struggle with processes like face scanning. She demanded that 5G-enabled devices be provided to ensure that the scheme benefits reach beneficiaries without technical glitches.
No Plans for Increases
The government made it clear that there is currently no proposal under consideration to increase the honorarium or the fuel allowance.
In her concluding remarks, MLA Purnima Sahu stated that the state government is ignoring ground realities and attempting to evade its responsibilities. She vowed to continue raising this issue forcefully in the Assembly to protect the rights and dignity of Anganwadi workers.
