Convention highlights pittance to ASHA workers
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 27 2024:
A state level convention for ASHA workers was held under the aegis of All Manipur ASHA Workers' Union at Manipur Press Club, here, on Monday wherein Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) former acting chairperson Khaidem Mani expressed dismay over the inadequate monthly honorarium given to ASHA workers.
Noting that ASHA workers in Manipur receive merely Rs 3000 per month, compared to their counterparts in other states enjoying around Rs 14,000, Mani called upon the union to relentlessly work for increasing the honorarium so as to enable ASHA workers live a decent life.
While highlighting role of Manipuri women, their bravery and sacrificial spirit, he said that the demand of the ASHA workers for increasing their honorarium is valid and should be upheld by the authority concerned.
In her address, Union general secretary P Asharani said ASHA workers are enduring difficulties in managing their families with just Rs 3000 per month, of which Rs 2000 is contribution from the central government.
Despite this meagre honorarium, ASHA workers continue to discharge their duty with sincerity.
Initially tasked with health-related duties concerning pregnant women, they now are handling a range of disease-related responsibilities and participate in health camps, she elaborated, and called for better payment to ASHA workers, in acknowledgement of nature of their work.
She also disclosed that the union is prepared to initiate protests in July to push for a raise in their monthly honorarium.
Presided over by union president Th Purnima, the convention was also attended by AITUC general secretary L Sotinkumar and AMUCO secretary (organization) L Krishnachandra as members on the dais.