Mid Day Meal workers stages deputation

Agartala, Jan 03, 2025, By Our Correspondent

Agartala: Jan 03: On January 3, 2025, the Cook-cum-Helpers Welfare Committee organized a protest march in Agartala, Tripura, demanding a significant wage hike and job security for mid-day meal workers in the state. The protest, which began at Bodhjung School on Friday, saw participants marching through the city with a clear ten-point charter of demands aimed at improving the working conditions of mid-day meal workers.

The most pressing demand was for a minimum wage of ₹18,000 per month for mid-day meal workers, who are currently paid much lower wages. According to the committee, there are 11,130 such workers in the state, and their current wages are not sufficient to cope with the rising cost of living. In comparison, states like Kerala and Puducherry pay their mid-day meal workers ₹12,000 a month, highlighting a significant wage disparity.

Other key demands put forth by the committee included the implementation of a provident fund scheme for the workers, a ban on layoffs, and the provision of a gratuity of ₹5 lakhs upon retirement. The committee also sought alternative employment opportunities for mid-day meal workers whose schools are scheduled for closure, emphasizing that many workers are at risk of losing their livelihoods.

Bir Kumar Debbarma, the convener of the state committee, expressed frustration over the state government's failure to address their concerns. He stated that the workers were left with no choice but to take to the streets, as their demands had not been met despite several attempts to engage in dialogue. The protestors have called on the government to immediately address these issues to ensure better wages, job security, and a dignified future for mid-day meal workers in Tripura.