Chandigarh, October 28, 2024 (Yes Punjab News) — In a landmark decision for the improvement of the working environment and well-being of mid-day meal cooks and assistants in Punjab, Punjab Mid Day Meal Society entered into an agreement with Canara Bank to extend free insurance cover to them. Punjab Finance, Planning, and Excise Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday said the agreement carries considerable insurance coverage and recommends salary hikes for the mid-day meal workers.
The new scheme will ensure insurance coverage for all the mid-day meal cooks and helpers who open their zero-balance account at Canara Bank, said an official. Minister Cheema said that the accidents, natural death, accidental death of spouse, also cover ₹16 lakh from the accidental death, one lakh from the natural death, and two lakh of amount in case of accident to the spouse. An official said that the current policy is a reflection of the Punjab government’s policy for the betterment in terms of safety and care for its workforce.
Push for Salary Increase and Improved Staffing Ratios
During a meeting with the Mid-day Meal Cooks Union Punjab (BMS), Minister Cheema assured the union leaders that the cabinet sub-committee has recommended an increase in the salaries for mid-day meal cooks. This proposal, now in the hands of the Union Government, raises the salary from ₹600 to ₹2000, a widely voiced demand for fair compensation.
The Punjab Government also suggested a restaffing approach to improve the efficiency of food preparation. Instead of a model which supports only one cook per 25 students, it is recommending one cook for 50 students. That should reduce the number of cooks and thereby increase the quality of food services offered to students.
Additional Support for Mid-Day Meal Workers
To further support the workforce, Minister Cheema instructed Secretary of School Education, K.K. Yadav, to consider establishing additional mid-day meal positions at the block level to accommodate staffing shortages due to absences. Additionally, he directed Managing Director, Mid Day Meal Society, Varinder Singh Brar to ensure that all necessary uniforms and safety gear, including aprons, caps, and gloves, are provided promptly to mid-day meal workers.
Commitment to Worker Welfare and Service Quality
Minister Cheema assured that the government and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann are committed to improving the livelihoods and working conditions of the middle meal workers. Comprehensive insurance and potential salary increase support from the government will ensure that every mid-day meal worker feels financially secured and will be able to work in a welcoming environment, aiming to provide quality services to students.
Union Leaders Applaud the Initiative
At the meeting were union representatives like the State President of the Mid-day Meal Cooks Union Punjab (BMS), Karamchand Chindalia, General Secretary Mumtaz Begam, and Vice President Rinki Nawan Shahar. These workers appreciated the state government for taking serious note of their needs and assured support towards this cause, believing this is a step in the right direction since the state government realizes how these workers are pivotal in carrying out the state’s educational and nutrition agenda.
In a landmark move, Punjab has reiterated its commitment to the welfare of mid-day meal workers, crucial for ensuring the proper wellbeing and nutrition of students. A deal with Canara Bank, along with a salary proposal, reflects the government’s determination to provide midday meal staff with financial security as well as a supporting workplace.