Mangaluru: The Retired Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Association from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts has urged the Karnataka government to grant gratuity benefits to all workers who retired since 2011, in line with the Supreme Court’s directive.
In a formal appeal addressed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the association emphasized the crucial role anganwadi workers and helpers have played in implementing welfare schemes for women and children throughout Karnataka. Despite their contributions, many of them feel unacknowledged and unsupported in their post-retirement lives.
The association pointed out that the Ministry of Women and Child Development, acting on the court’s guidance, instructed states to release gratuity to retired workers. However, only those who retired after April 2023 have received the benefit so far.
Association president Leelavathi strongly criticized this selective disbursal. “Many who retired after 2011 continue to struggle financially without any support. After 60, finding alternative employment is nearly impossible, especially with increasing health concerns,” she said. “The departments they served seem to have forgotten them.”
She urged the state to uphold justice and compassion by extending gratuity to all eligible retirees. The association believes that recognizing their years of dedicated service will align with the state’s larger vision of women empowerment and social welfare.
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