Itanagar, Apr 16: The All Arunachal Pradesh ASHA and Facilitators Workers Union (AAPAHAS & FWU), affiliated with the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), organised a massive rally in Itanagar on Wednesday demanding better pay, regularisation, and social security for ASHA workers.
The rally, held in solidarity with the Akhil Bharatiya ASHA Karamchari Mahasangh, began at Akashdeep and culminated at the Tennis Court near IG Park. Similar demonstrations were held across several districts in Arunachal as part of a nationwide campaign.
Addressing the gathering, AAPAHAS & FWU general secretary Rechi Yakum expressed concern over the irregular honorariums received by ASHA workers.
“They currently get Rs 5,000 monthly—Rs 3,000 from the state and Rs 2,000 from the Centre—but the payments are not consistent,” she said.
Yakum highlighted a 12-point charter of demands, including a minimum monthly salary of Rs 18,000 for ASHA workers, Rs 24,000 for assistants, and Rs 30,000 for facilitators and coordinators. The union also sought inclusion of all workers under EPF, ESI, and pension schemes, along with accident compensation of Rs 5 lakh and a retirement benefit of Rs 10 lakh.
Other key demands include timely disbursal of salaries, rest facilities in hospitals, travel allowances, two uniforms annually, and the relaxation of the age limit for pension enrollment under the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme.
BMS state president Ringu Chapo urged both the Centre and state government to address the workers’ “genuine and legitimate” demands without delay.
The rally concluded with a unified call to recognise the contributions of ASHA workers, especially in rural and remote areas.
