Will Kerala ASHA Workers Continue Their Protest Until CM Vijayan Matches Centre’s Support?
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Synopsis
As Kerala ASHA workers continue their protest for better state support, the recent hike in incentives from the Centre has sparked further demands for action from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. With a commitment to their cause, the workers are determined to ensure justice is served.
Key Takeaways
- Centre increases ASHA worker incentives.
- Protests persist until state support is matched.
- 168 days of continuous agitation by ASHA workers.
- Support from MPs across party lines.
- Calls for justice and equity in healthcare compensation.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 26 (NationPress) Despite the Centre's announcement to increase the fixed monthly incentive for ASHA workers from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,500, the protesting workers in Kerala have committed to persist with their demonstrations until the state government, led by Pinarayi Vijayan, provides commensurate support.
On the 168th day of their ongoing protest outside the State Secretariat, ASHA workers expressed their appreciation for the Centre but insisted that the state government must now uphold its obligations.
Mini, the leader of the protesting ASHA workers, stated on Saturday, “We acknowledge the Centre’s decision, but the responsibility now lies with Chief Minister Vijayan. We will continue our protest until the state government delivers justice.”
She highlighted that the workers had organized two marches to Parliament to showcase their challenges and received support from Kerala MPs across party lines, including those from Congress and BJP, who raised the issue in Parliament.
On Friday, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav informed Kerala MP N.K. Premachandran that the Centre had approved the incentive increase. Furthermore, the one-time retirement benefit for ASHA workers with 10 years of service has been raised from Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000.
“With the Centre having fulfilled its part, it is the state government's turn to respond. The assertion that Kerala's financial situation is precarious is misleading. It is the state government that assigns us the majority of our tasks, which we perform diligently. The responsibility now lies with them,” Mini added.
Despite four rounds of negotiations with the Vijayan administration and a separate meeting with State Health Minister Veena George, the deadlock remains.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the persistent struggles faced by the ASHA workers in Kerala. Their dedication to healthcare and community service is commendable, and the demands for equitable support from both the Centre and the state government highlight the complexities of public health funding. It is essential for policymakers to address these concerns to ensure the welfare of those who serve on the frontline.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent changes have been made to ASHA worker incentives?
The Centre has announced an increase in the fixed monthly incentive for ASHA workers from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,500, along with a hike in the retirement benefit for those completing 10 years of service from Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000.
Why are ASHA workers protesting in Kerala?
ASHA workers are protesting to demand matching support from the Kerala state government, as they feel the responsibilities assigned to them are not being met with adequate compensation.
How long have the ASHA workers been protesting?
The ASHA workers have been protesting for 168 days outside the State Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram.
Who has supported the ASHA workers in their movement?
The ASHA workers have received support from various Kerala MPs across party lines, including members from Congress and BJP, who have raised their concerns in Parliament.
What is the role of ASHA workers in Kerala?
ASHA workers are community health activists who play a vital role in the healthcare system by promoting health awareness, providing care, and facilitating access to healthcare services.
