Bhubaneswar: In a move to recognise their valuable contributions, the Odisha government has announced a significant increase in the monthly salary and retirement benefits for Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) workers in the state.
Effective immediately, ASHA workers will receive a monthly salary of Rs 7,000, a substantial hike from the previous Rs 4,500. This increase translates to an additional Rs 148.57 crore annual expenditure for the state government.
Furthermore, the government has doubled the retirement benefit for ASHA workers, raising it from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing financial security for these vital healthcare providers upon their retirement.
This decision benefits over 49,522 ASHA workers across Odisha, who play a crucial role in assisting pregnant and lactating mothers. They not only raise awareness about various government schemes but also serve as champions for vaccination drives in the state.
The announcement comes after ASHA workers and their organisations raised concerns about their remuneration during visits by the 5T Chairman, Karthik Pandian, to various districts. The government’s response reflects its appreciation for the dedication and hard work of ASHA workers in promoting public health and well-being in Odisha.
