THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Asha workers, who are touted to be the backbone of the public health service are facing repeated neglect from the government. It has been two months since the honorarium was suspended for more than 25,000 Asha workers in the state. The three months incentive is also due which has arguably made life torturous for these poor workers who continue a living on their meagre salary.

Although the finance department says that the amount was sanctioned last week, NHM officials denied it saying the amount has not reached the account. Honorarium is disbursed through NHM. The honorarium is Rs 6000 per month. For incentives and additional work done, one person should get an average of Rs 8000. Honorariums and incentives are jointly provided by the central and state governments. The mission of Asha workers includes ensuring maternal and child care, providing primary medical care, taking precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, and equipping the community to prevent lifestyle diseases.

Asha Workers were adulated and felicitated for the yeoman’s work they did during peak Covid times.

The promise of Rs 7,000 did not materialize

1. The honorarium was increased to Rs. 7000 in the last budget but was not implemented

2. Apart from Kerala, all other states are providing a high honorarium

3. First Andhra- Rs 10,000, Telangana Rs 9,750

The government had issued an order to terminate the service of Asha workers at the age of 62 without paying any benefits. As the protest grew the health minister said that the order would be withdrawn, but no action was taken.