Ganderbal, April 22nd, 2026: Bilal Bhat, Campaigner, Social Reformer, and Motivational Speaker, has urged the Central Government and the Union Territory administration of Jammu & Kashmir to immediately increase the honorarium of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers working under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).
In a statement issued today, Bilal Bhat highlighted the critical role played by these frontline workers, describing them as the backbone of rural healthcare, nutrition, and early childhood education across Jammu and Kashmir. With more than 28,000 Anganwadi Workers and an equal number of helpers, they represent one of the largest grassroots welfare networks, serving as the first point of contact for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
He stated that despite their immense contribution, these workers remain underpaid, overworked, and largely unrecognized. They are consistently on the frontlines, attending government programmes, awareness campaigns, and even stepping up during emergencies and disaster-like situations.
“Anganwadi Workers and Helpers dedicate their lives to public service, yet struggle to meet basic household needs due to meagre and irregular payments,” he said.
Highlighting the ground reality, Bilal Bhat cited voices from within the community.One worker, Mehmooda, expressed deep concern, stating that receiving around ₹5,100 per month—often delayed for months—makes survival extremely difficult. Similarly, helpers, earning as little as ₹2,500 even after years of service, face severe financial distress.
He further emphasized that for decades, these workers have been demanding fair wages, job security, timely payments, pensions, and career progression opportunities, but their concerns have not been adequately addressed.
“The government must acknowledge their invaluable contribution and ensure dignified compensation, timely disbursement of wages, and basic social security benefits,” he added.
Bilal Bhat called upon the authorities to take immediate and concrete steps to improve the working conditions and financial stability of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers, ensuring justice and dignity for those who serve the most vulnerable sections of society.
