Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 27 December 2024
The Hindu Rashtra Shakti, Andaman and Nicobar Islands has formally requested the implementation of the e-Shram Card scheme for pujaris (priests) and other temple staff across the region. The initiative, which seeks to provide social security and welfare benefits to unorganized sector workers, is seen as a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of those who play a vital role in maintaining the spiritual fabric of society.
In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the organisation outlined the numerous benefits that would be extended to pujaris and temple staff through the e-Shram Card. These include social security benefits such as accidental insurance, pensions, and medical coverage, as well as financial inclusion through access to banking services, loans, and micro-insurance.
The Hindu Rashtra Shakti also emphasised the importance of skill development programs for pujaris, aiming to enhance their employability and livelihood opportunities. The letter highlighted that the implementation of this scheme would not only address the financial challenges faced by pujaris but would also help in formalising their status in the unorganised sector.
In addition to requesting the scheme’s adoption, the organization offered its support in facilitating the process, including sharing a database of Hindu temples across the islands and organising camps in collaboration with the concerned departments to ease registration and benefit utilisation.
The letter, signed by Rakeshwar Lall, the State President of Hindu Rashtra Shakti, was also forwarded to key authorities, including the Hon’ble Member of Parliament for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Chief Secretary, and the Labour Commissioner for their consideration and necessary action.
Hindu Rashtra Shakti expressed its belief that the implementation of the e-Shram Card will significantly improve the lives of pujaris and their families, helping them access critical social security benefits and financial services.