AP Government’s boon to Anganwadi Workers

The Andhra Pradesh Government, led by Chief Minister Jagan, has proactively addressed the concerns raised by Anganwadi workers, releasing over Rs 80 crores to meet their immediate demands. Despite attempts by opposition parties, such as Chandra Babu’s TDP and Pawan Kalyan’s Jana Sena, to exploit the grievances of the Anganwadi workers during their strike, CM Jagan swiftly attended to their issues, thwarting any disruptive maneuvers in their early stages.

In response to the pressing needs voiced by Anganwadi workers and helpers across the state, the Andhra Pradesh Government has undertaken several key initiatives to provide immediate relief:

Funds for Rental Buildings: The government has allocated Rs 66.54 crores for 16,575 rental buildings in rural/tribal areas and 6705 rental buildings in urban areas, addressing concerns related to Anganwadi centers operating in rented spaces. All relevant rent arrears up to November 2023 have been cleared for these centers statewide.

Consumables Allocation: An amount of Rs 7.81 crores has been disbursed for the procurement of consumables such as soap and phenyl, ensuring a hygienic environment for Anganwadi centers.

Maintenance Funds: A sum of Rs 6.36 crores has been released as maintenance funds (Rs 3000/- per center) for 21,206 Anganwadi Centers. This allows Anganwadi workers to utilize the funds based on the specific requirements of their respective centers.

Age Limit Revision: The government has issued an official order (GO. Ms. No 44, dated 20.12.2023), increasing the age limit from 45 to 50 years for the promotion of Anganwadi helpers to Anganwadi workers. The upper age limit for the continuation of both Anganwadi workers and helpers has been set at 62 years.

End-of-Service Benefits: Upon reaching the age of 62, Anganwadi staff will receive a special bonus, amounting to Rs 1 lakh for anganwadi workers and Rs 40,000 for anganwadi helpers, as an end-of-service benefit, as per the orders issued vide G.O.Ms. No:47 dated 20.12.2023.

TA/DA Facilities: The YSRCP Government has additionally introduced measures, outlined in Memo No.2303564/2023/PROG-I-A1, dated 20.12.2023, allowing Anganwadi workers to claim TA/DA once a month, and Anganwadi helpers to claim TA/DA bi-monthly. These orders are effective from the date of issuance, providing further support to the dedicated Anganwadi workforce.