Ramakanta Biswas

Continuing the sops announcement spree ahead of the crucial Panchayat elections, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday increased the incentive amount for Anganwadi workers and also offered financial assistance to Mission Shakti community resource persons.

The CM doubled the one-time incentive for retired Anganwadi workers from Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000. Similarly, the incentives of Mini Anganwadi workers and Anganwadi assistants have been doubled from Rs 15000 to Rs 30,000 and Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 respectively.

The Anganwadi workers will also get paid medical leave. The package, which will be effective retrospectively from January 1, 2019, will benefit over 1.30 lakh Anganwadi workers in the State, according to a statement released by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

Announcing the financial package for 50,000 Mission Shakti community resource persons working at the Panchayat level, the CM said financial assistance of Rs 1000 will be given to each worker. Besides, Rs 5000 will also be provided to them for purchase of smartphones.

Moreover, Community Mobiliser (CRP-CM) will draw a monthly remuneration of Rs 3,000 and Rs 350 travelling allowance per month apart from Rs 150 for telephone expenses.

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