TNR News Network
Una : The 14th two-day state conference of the Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union, affiliated with CITU, commenced in Una, Himachal Pradesh. The event began with a flag hoisting ceremony led by state president Neelam Jaswal and was inaugurated by national president Usha Rani. State general secretary Veena Sharma presented the union’s report, while CITU national secretary Dr. Kashmir Thakur addressed the gathering.
Prominent attendees included CITU state president Vijender Mehra, general secretary Prem Gautam, vice president Jagat Ram, treasurer Ajay Dulta, and several district leaders, social activists, and legal professionals.
Recognition for Nationwide Strike
Usha Rani and Dr. Thakur congratulated Anganwadi workers for the success of the July 9 nationwide strike, calling it the largest in Himachal’s history. Over 10,000 workers participated in demonstrations across district and block headquarters, leading to the closure of most Anganwadi centres and widespread protests.
Criticism of ICDS Privatization
Speakers strongly condemned the Modi government’s policies, accusing it of undermining the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) through privatisation and budget cuts. They demanded:
- Full status for mini Anganwadi centres
- Equal pay for equal work
- Salary hikes and regularization of all workers
- Implementation of gratuity per Supreme Court guidelines
- Regularization as Class III and IV employees per Gujarat High Court
Educational and Employment Demands
Additional demands included:
- Recognition of Anganwadi centres as pre-primary schools
- Supervisor appointments based on seniority and qualifications
- Retirement age extension to 65 years
- Financial support for uniforms, mobile recharge, and stationery
- Resolution of issues with the Poshan Tracker app
Warning to Central Government
Union leaders warned that failure to regularize Anganwadi workers would intensify the movement. They rejected ICDS privatization and called for implementation of the 45th Indian Labour Conference recommendations. They also demanded pension, medical leave, and incentives for election duties, along with immediate recruitment to vacant posts and double payment for extra work.
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