NewKerala.com

Gujarat Govt to Cover Ration Transport Costs for Anganwadi Workers

The Gujarat state government has decided to bear the cost of transporting foodgrains and rations to Anganwadi centres, a long-pending demand from workers. Workers will now receive financial support of Rs 200 per month, up to Rs 2,400 annually, directly into their bank accounts. This move aims to relieve workers from a significant personal financial burden they previously incurred by hiring vehicles. The decision is particularly welcomed by workers in remote areas and is expected to improve the functioning of Anganwadi centres.

Key Points: Gujarat to Pay Anganwadi Workers' Ration Transport Costs

  • Ends out-of-pocket transport costs
  • Rs 200 monthly assistance
  • Direct bank transfers for accountability
  • Benefits rural workers most
2 min read

Gujarat govt to bear ration transport cost for Anganwadi workers

Gujarat government will now provide Rs 200 monthly to Anganwadi workers for transporting foodgrains, easing a long-standing financial burden.

"a long-overdue relief - Anganwadi workers"

Ahmedabad, Jan 28

In a decision that will benefit thousands of Anganwadi workers across Gujarat, the state government, on Wednesday, accepted a long-pending demand and decided to bear the cost of transporting foodgrains and rations supplied to Anganwadi centres.

Until now, Anganwadi workers were required to pay out of their own pockets to transport foodgrains meant for children and pregnant women from fair price shops to Anganwadi centres.

Workers often had to hire tempos or other vehicles, adding to their financial burden despite receiving a modest honourarium.

Several organisations representing Anganwadi workers had repeatedly raised the issue, saying that the additional expense was creating financial stress and was unjust.

As per the state government's latest decision, Anganwadi workers will now be eligible for financial assistance to cover the cost of transporting rations.

Under the new arrangement, workers will receive financial support of Rs 200 per month, with an annual cap of Rs 2,400, and the amount will be credited directly to their bank accounts or disbursed through a prescribed transparent mechanism to ensure accountability.

The state government said the move aims to ensure that workers are not forced to incur work-related expenses from their own income.

The announcement has been welcomed by Anganwadi workers across the state, who described it as a long-overdue relief.

Many workers said that while the amount may appear modest, it addresses an injustice that had persisted for years.

The decision is expected to benefit workers in remote and rural areas in particular, where transportation costs are higher.

Officials said the measure would improve the functioning of Anganwadi centres and enable workers to carry out their responsibilities more effectively.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good decision, but why did it take so long? Anganwadi workers are the backbone of our rural health and nutrition system. They do so much for mothers and children. It's basic that the government should cover their work expenses. Better late than never, I suppose.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked with NGOs in rural Gujarat, I've seen this issue firsthand. The honorarium is modest, and asking them to pay for transport from their own pocket was unfair. This is a positive step for gender equity too, as most Anganwadi workers are women.
A
Aman W
₹200 per month is a start, but is it enough? In remote tribal areas of Dahod or Dangs, transport costs can be much higher. The government should review this amount periodically and link it to inflation. The intent is good, but the implementation must be practical.
M
Meera T
Finally some justice for these dedicated workers! They take care of our future generations. This will definitely boost their morale. Hope other states take note and implement similar measures. The direct bank transfer is also a good move to ensure transparency.
V
Vikram M
A small but significant step. The real issue is the overall honorarium. While this transport allowance helps, we must also focus on increasing their basic pay. They perform a crucial service and deserve much better financial recognition for their work.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50