Dehradun: Uttarakhand Anganwadi workers have received a major boost as the state government announced a retirement benefit of Rs 1 lakh for workers retiring from service. Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya issued official directives regarding the decision, aimed at ensuring financial security for workers after retirement and promoting women’s empowerment in the state.
The decision, effective from the new financial year, will see retiring Anganwadi workers receive a minimum of Rs 1 lakh, significantly higher than the current amount of Rs 35,000–40,000. Minister Arya stated that the department had been working to enhance the retirement benefits for some time and had sought the consent of workers, who contribute Rs 300 monthly to the scheme. After securing the agreement from Anganwadi worker organizations, the directives were officially issued. Workers retiring from April 1, 2026, onwards will be eligible to receive the enhanced benefit.
Women Empowerment and Single-Women Self-Employment Scheme
During the meeting held at the HRDC auditorium in the Secretariat, Minister Arya reviewed multiple welfare initiatives. She highlighted that under the Single Women Self-Employment Scheme, 504 proposals across six districts have already been approved. The distribution of funds to these approved applicants has been scheduled for the first week of January 2026. Applications from other districts are still under process.
Nanda Gaura Scheme Sees Record Applications
The Minister also reviewed the Nanda Gaura Scheme for this year, noting that over 45,000 applications have been received so far, marking the highest number to date. The application process is open until December 20, and more applications are expected. Minister Arya instructed officials to release funds to eligible applicants around January 15, 2026.
Promotion and New Initiatives for Anganwadi Supervisors
The Cabinet meeting also addressed promotions for Anganwadi supervisors. Currently, 88 posts remain vacant under this category. Minister Arya directed that a notification for these promotions will be issued within a week.
Support for Elderly Women in Remote Areas
In addition, a new welfare scheme for elderly women in remote areas is planned for next year, aimed at providing financial, social, and emotional support. The Minister instructed officials to prepare for its launch, with Rs 8 crore already allocated for this initiative.
The meeting was attended by Departmental Secretary Chandresh Kumar Yadav, Women Empowerment Director Bansilal Rana, Deputy Director Vikram Singh, Neetu Fulera, and other senior officials.
About Anganwadi Workers in Uttarakhand
Anganwadi workers play a critical role in child care, health, and nutrition services across Uttarakhand. The government’s new retirement benefit and promotion initiatives reflect its ongoing commitment to improving the welfare, security, and professional growth of these essential frontline workers.
