In a major development concerning Kerala’s grassroots health workforce, a committee led by Haritha V. Kumar has recommended a ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 hike in the monthly honorarium of ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers. The move aims to enhance financial support for these frontline health volunteers, who play a pivotal role in community health services across the state.
As per the panel’s report, ASHA workers with over 10 years of service should receive a ₹1,500 raise, while those with less than 10 years should get a ₹1,000 increase. The committee, formed six months ago, was tasked with reviewing the existing honorarium structure and suggesting revisions.
Interestingly, the report came to light only after being obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) request, as the government had not released it publicly. It also urged authorities to ensure that honorariums are paid by the 10th of every month without delays.
However, the panel’s silence on retirement benefits has drawn sharp criticism. ASHA workers had demanded a ₹5 lakh retirement package and a monthly honorarium of ₹21,000, but neither was addressed in the report.
Union representatives have slammed the recommendations as disappointing and insufficient, vowing to intensify their agitation. They have announced a statewide protest march to the Chief Minister’s official residence on October 22, mobilizing ASHA workers from across Kerala in what they promise will be a historic demonstration for fair pay and recognition.
