AWFFI is set to launch a protest against the central government on March 21

Thiruvananthapuram: The ASHA Workers and Facilitators Federation of India (AWFFI CITU) is set to launch significant protests against the central government on 21 March. In a statement from AWFFI president P P Prema and general secretary Madhumita Bandyopadhyay, the federation demands the regularisation of ASHA workers as government employees, a minimum wage of Rs. 26000 per month instead of the current incentive-based pay, and guaranteed pensions for ASHA workers and facilitators. Additionally, AWFFI insists on increasing the National Health Mission (NHM) budget and releasing pending central shares to the states immediately. In response to CPI MP Santosh Kumar's inquiries, Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda announced increased incentives for ASHA workers but failed to address critical issues like worker status, minimum wages, or pensions. After seven years of stagnation, this vague response overlooks the approaching 20th anniversary of the ASHA program.

AWFFI demands that ASHA workers be recognised as employees, minimum wages be established, and essential social security benefits, including pensions, be established. These demands stem from a history of persistent struggles by ASHA workers, particularly highlighted after the March to Parliament on 29 November 2024, where AWFFI successfully pressured the Mission Director to increase incentives. Thousands of ASHA workers are protesting in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, enduring harsh conditions to demand accountability from both central and state governments. Similar actions are occurring across multiple states, pressuring the NDA government.

AWFFI's advocacy for regularisation as Grade III government employees, fixed wages, and essential benefits has never been more critical, especially in light of increased workloads due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent recommendations from Parliamentary committees and the National Human Rights Commission further support the demand for minimum wages.

The Minister's unclear statements about budget approvals raise concerns, and previous experiences indicate that such declarations often result in delays. It is unacceptable for the government to shift responsibility to financially strained state governments. AWFFI demands immediate action to release NHM funds to ensure timely payments and end misinformation campaigns against non-BJP-ruled states.

AWFFI condemns the government's neglect of its commitment to recognise and provide essential benefits to ASHA workers. It is time for the government to honour its promises and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of ASHA workers who have long been overlooked.

AWFFI calls upon all affiliated unions to organise protests throughout the country on 21 March 2025, with massive mobilisation and submission of memorandums to the Union Health Minister. The future course of the struggles on our basic demands and to institutionalise NHM will be declared in the National Convention to be held in New Delhi on 12 April 2025 on the occasion of the completion of 20 years of the ASHA program.