Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 7: A state-level protest by Asha workers, who serve as government health workers, is scheduled to be held at Freedom Park, Bengaluru, on January 7. The protest is being organized under the banner of Karnataka Rajya Samyukta Asha Karyakarthara Sangha and will be led by the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC).

The protest aims to highlight the workers' demand for an honorarium of Rs 15,000 per month and additional benefits. Asha workers, who primarily engage in fieldwork, have been instrumental in public health initiatives, particularly during the coronavirus crisis.

The workers function under Arogya Kendras, which operate with joint funding from the state and central governments. Despite their critical role in community health, the Asha workers claim their contributions are undervalued and undercompensated, necessitating this united action to demand better pay and recognition.

The protest is expected to draw attention to the challenges faced by Asha workers and the need for policy-level interventions to ensure fair compensation and benefits.