KISHTWAR, Sep 14: The Anganwadi Workers/Helpers Federation has submitted a memorandum to Sunil Kumar Sharma, Former Minister and Leader of Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, seeking immediate intervention in addressing the long-pending demands and issues faced by Anganwadi workers and helpers, particularly those working in the Chenab Valley districts.
In the memorandum, Federation President Sangeeta Parihar highlighted that Anganwadi workers and helpers play a crucial role in providing early childhood care, nutrition and other essential services at the grassroots level. However, they continue to discharge their duties under challenging circumstances, especially in the remote and hilly areas of the Chenab Valley, where harsh weather conditions, difficult terrain and inadequate infrastructure add to their difficulties.
The Federation has placed several key demands before the Leader of Opposition, including the provision of a special package for Anganwadi workers and helpers working in difficult and remote areas, keeping in view the nature of their duties and challenging working conditions.
The Federation has also demanded winter leave for Anganwadi workers, particularly in areas experiencing severe winter conditions, stating that extreme weather makes it difficult for workers to perform their duties safely and effectively.
Another major demand is the introduction of a fair and transparent transfer policy for Anganwadi workers and helpers. The Federation has urged that they be brought under an appropriate transfer mechanism to ensure fair postings and address difficulties arising from prolonged or inconvenient placements.
Regarding career progression, the Federation has sought greater priority and adequate promotion quota for eligible Anganwadi workers, so that those who have completed the requisite period of service can be considered for promotion to the post/grade of Supervisor in accordance with seniority and applicable rules.
The Federation has further called for a transparent and accountable nutrition supply and distribution system, ensuring that nutrition reaches beneficiaries in a timely manner, with proper monitoring of supply, quality and distribution.
The Federation expressed hope that Sh. Sunil Kumar Sharma would take up these genuine demands with the concerned authorities and extend his support for the welfare of Anganwadi workers and helpers.
The memorandum was signed by Sangeeta Parihar, President, Anganwadi Workers/Helpers Federation, who appealed for early action on the issues in the larger interest of Anganwadi workers and the children and beneficiaries dependent on these essential services.