Relief for Anganwadi Workers: Order Issued to Grant Pension for the Lost Period

Thiruvananthapuram: Health Minister Veena George has announced an order to restore pensions for Anganwadi workers who had lost them. This measure aims to provide relief to Anganwadi workers with 30 to 40 years of service who faced interruptions in paying contributions to the Kerala Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Welfare Fund Board and were unable to revive their membership due to arrears. Over 500 workers lost their pensions after 2016 for various reasons, including health issues, among those who retired between 2016 and 2025. Observing this, it was decided to amend the existing Act to grant pensions for this period.

For retired Anganwadi workers who lost their pensions because they failed to pay contributions for more than six months during periods of zero salary, special permission has been issued to allow them to pay the pending contributions and avail of the pension benefits.