Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 02 February 2024
In a plea addressing the Hon’ble Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Mr. Amit Shah, Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Former State President of BJP in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has raised concerns over the dire conditions faced by ASHA workers in the region. The appeal emphasises the need for an increase in incentives and the provision of social security benefits for these frontline healthcare workers.
Around 400 ASHA workers, operating under the Directorate of Health Services, A & N Administration, tirelessly contribute to various health initiatives, from door-to-door community activities to distributing medicines. Despite their crucial role in implementing government schemes, their monthly income, comprising a fixed incentive of Rs. 2000 from the Centre and Rs. 500 from the UT Fund, alongside an honorarium of approximately Rs. 500, amounts to a meager Rs. 3000. This sum is deemed insufficient, especially considering the prevailing inflation levels.
Jolly underscored the pivotal role ASHA workers play as a crucial link between the government’s healthcare system and the communities they serve. Their responsibilities range from providing healthcare to pregnant women to participating in various surveys. The letter highlighted that the A & N ASHA Karmachari Sangh, affiliated to Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, has already presented their demands for increased incentives to the Chief Secretary, A & N Administration.
Expressing concern over the disparity in incentives, Jolly stated that during the COVID-19 pandemic, ASHA workers showcased exemplary dedication, risking their lives to fulfill their duties. He urged the Union Home Minister to recognize them as “workers” rather than mere volunteers, considering the nature and hours of their work.
The letter specifically appeals to the Union Home Minister to consider the following demands:
1. Increase incentives to a consolidated amount of at least Rs. 15,000 per month for each ASHA worker.
2. Provide health and life insurance coverage for ASHA workers.
3. Grant social security benefits, including PF and retirement benefits.
Jolly concludes the letter with a plea for the Minister’s empathy and positive consideration of these demands, emphasizing the gratitude of ASHA workers in anticipation of an improvement in their working conditions. The appeal sheds light on the critical role played by these frontline workers and calls for urgent intervention to address their longstanding concerns.