Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 15 January 2025
The National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), Mr. Ravindre Himte, and National Sah Sangathan Mantri, Mr. Ganesh Mishra, visited Andaman & Nicobar Islands from January 11, 2025, to oversee the Triennial Conference of the organization.
On January 14, a pivotal meeting was held at the Andaman Nicobar Rajya Karmachari Mahasangh (ANRKM) office in Dollygunj. The meeting was attended by Mr. Himte and Mr. Mishra, alongside State General Secretary, BMS, Mr. Sunil Ghosh, ANRKM President Mr. Jaydeep Kumar Dey, and other office bearers.
The session began with a warm welcome by ANRKM General Secretary, Mr. S. Biju Pillai, who introduced the members of affiliated associations. Vice President Mr. Vijay Kumar highlighted the challenges faced by DRMs and contract employees under the Union Territory Administration and autonomous bodies.
President Mr. Jaydeep Kumar Dey briefed the national leaders on issues raised with various central ministries, including the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Ministry of Ports & Shipping, and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. These issues pertain to the Health Department, National Health Mission, Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works, Central Public Works Department, and the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council.
During the meeting, Mr. Pillai emphasized the need to extend the Hard Area Allowance, currently applicable only in the Nicobar District, to all employees across the Union Territory. He also urged the inclusion of this allowance alongside the Special Compensatory Allowance. Additionally, he requested an increase in the Special Casual Leave for association activities to 30 days, citing the unique geographic and logistical challenges of the islands.
In response, Mr. Himte assured attendees that he would address these concerns with Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (DoPT).
The meeting concluded with the presentation of a memento to Mr. Himte and Mr. Mishra by ANRKM members, marking the end of a productive visit.