Anganwadi workers demand salary hike and social security, stage protest in Ongole
The Anganwadi workers and helpers from various projects across Prakasam district staged a protest, under the aegis of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU)
The Anganwadi workers and helpers from various projects across Prakasam district staged a protest, under the aegis of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), in front of the main gate of the Collectorate on Friday (July 10, 2026). In response to a State-wide call by the Andhra Pradesh Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union, the protestors demanded that the government provide a minimum monthly wage of ₹26,000 and implement social security measures for Anganwadi workers.
The protest was led by the union’s district president Ch. Indiravati, general secretary Edara Annapurna, CITU district general secretary M. Ramesh, and vice-president G.V. Konda Reddy. They warned that they would intensify the protest if their demands were not met. Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Annapurna said, “Although Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu—while he was the Leader of the Opposition during the 42-day strike—promised to raise wages immediately upon coming to power, this promise remains unfulfilled even after two years of his government.” She expressed anger that despite the introduction of two budgets, there was no discussion on the increase in the salaries of Anganwadi workers.
“A minimum monthly salary of ₹26,000 should be given for the workers and they should be recognised as government employees,” she demanded. The Union leaders demanded the implementation of all social security schemes, including pension, PF, ESI, gratuity, and paid medical leave. They questioned who would manage the Anganwadi centres if additional duties—such as those of a BLO—were assigned to them. They expressed distress over having to cover expenses for rent, electricity bills, travel, and additional gas cylinders out of their own salaries.
They also stated that the allocated quantities of rice, oil, and vegetables, as well as the gas allowance, were insufficient for the current needs.
The BriefWire