ASHAs seek minimum wages, social security benefits

HUBBALLI A delegation of the Karnataka State Samyukta ASHA Workers Union, affiliated to the AIUTUC, submitted a memorandum to Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Sunday seeking recognition of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) as employees and the provision of minimum wages and social security benefits. The delegation urged the Union government to increase the daily incentive for ASHAs to ₹3,500 as recommended at the 10th EPC meeting held under the National Health Mission (NHM).

It also sought an increase in the retirement lumpsum benefit to ₹50,000 and demanded immediate implementation of the proposed measures. ASHAs serve as a link between communities and the public healthcare system, particularly in rural areas.

Their responsibilities include promoting maternal and child health, facilitating immunisation, supporting institutional deliveries and creating awareness about health programmes. Their union has been seeking better remuneration and social security, arguing that the responsibilities undertaken by ASHAs warrant improved financial and employment-related benefits.