By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, October 17, 2017: Odisha government on Tuesday hiked the salary and other benefits of Anganwadi workers.

The Anganwadi workers has been protesting here for over a month demanding hike in their salary and other benefits.

“My government has always kept the interest of Anganwadi workers, helpers and mini Anganwadi workers as priority. They have a significant role in care and protection of women and children. I am pleased to announce that the government has decided to enhance the salary of the Anganwadi workers, mini Anganwadi workers and Anganwadi helpers to Rs 6000, Rs 4125 and Rs 3000 per month, respectively,” chief minister Naveen Patnaik said while announcing the hike on Monday.

Anganwadi workers will also get insurance coverage for health, life and disability. “The State government will bear the premium cost,” said Patnaik, adding that the workers will now be covered under the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

The government’s decision has come as a great relief for the agitating workers whose protest entered 36th day on Monday.