VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh has become the first state in India to introduce gratuity payments for Asha workers, fulfilling a key election promise of chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu.
Andhra also offers the highest salary for Asha workers in the country, with a monthly payment of Rs 10,000 – far more than Rs 750 in UP, Rs 3,000 in Bengal and Delhi, Rs 5,000 in Kerala, and Rs 7,500 in Telangana.
Asha workers who complete 30 years of service will receive up to Rs 1.5 lakh as gratuity. Govt has also approved 180 days of maternity leave as working days, ensuring that eligible workers receive Rs 60,000 in salary during their leave. Govt has also assured additional post-retirement benefits, priority in auxiliary nurse midwife recruitment, and access to social security schemes.
CM Naidu approved the decision aimed at improving the financial security and working conditions of Asha workers during a review meeting of state health department, an official statement said Saturday.
Health minister Satyakumar Yadav said these benefits recognise Asha workers’ service.
