Modi Honours Force Behind India’s Nari, Yuva Shakti: Announces Diwali Gift, Hike For Anganwadi And ASHA Workers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced hikes in honorariums provided to accredited social health activists (ASHA), Anganwadi and auxiliary nurse midwife (ANM) workers during his online interaction with them, Business Standard has reported.

In addition to this, the PM also announced free insurance cover for them under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY). He dubbed these hikes as ‘Diwali gift’ for workers as the announcements come into force from November onwards.

Hereafter, ASHA, Anganwadi and ANM workers will not have to pay any premium to get total insurance cover of Rs 4,00,000 under PMSBY and PMJJBY.

Anganwadi workers getting an honorarium of Rs 2,250 will now be getting Rs 3,500 and those getting Rs 3,000 will receive Rs 4,500. Anganwadi helpers getting Rs 1,500 will now get Rs 2,500 from the central government. The PM announced incentives ranging from Rs 250 to Rs 500 for Anganwadi workers and helpers for using the Integrated Child Development Services- Common Application Software ( ICDS - CAS).

Incentives for ASHAs have been doubled as per the PM’s announcement. These workers also get a separate honorarium from state governments.

PM Modi also hailed the role of Anganwadi and ASHA workers for their important role in strengthening the foundations of the country by taking care of newborn kids, ensuring nutritional standards and maintaining cleanliness.