Punjab Government Ensures Free Insurance and Salary Hike for Mid-Day Meal Workers in New Agreement

Last updated: 28 October 2024 23:21

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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.

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Push for Salary Increase and Improved Staffing Ratios Additional Support for Mid-Day Meal Workers Commitment to Worker Welfare and Service Quality Union Leaders Applaud the Initiative

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.

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By Jacob Charles

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Jacob Charles is a dedicated Senior Reporter at USAHarmony, where he has been making significant contributions for the past year. With a keen focus on the insurance industry, Jacob covers a range of topics that delve into the complexities and nuances of insurance-related issues. His reporting not only informs consumers but also sheds light on corporate practices and regulatory changes that impact individuals and businesses alike. In his role, Jacob investigates and writes about various facets of the insurance world, including health insurance, auto insurance, property insurance, and emerging trends like insurtech innovations. He seeks to illuminate how these topics affect everyday lives, from the intricacies of policy selection to the implications of recent legislation. Jacob’s ability to translate complex insurance jargon into accessible language makes his work valuable to both industry professionals and general readers. His commitment to holding powerful corporations accountable drives his investigative approach. Jacob often highlights stories of consumers facing challenges within the insurance system, bringing attention to issues such as claim denials, fraud, and the importance of consumer rights. His work aims to empower readers with knowledge, helping them navigate the often-complicated world of insurance. Jacob’s background in journalism, coupled with his passion for storytelling, positions him as a knowledgeable and trusted voice in the industry. He leverages data, interviews, and expert opinions to produce comprehensive articles that not only inform but also engage his audience. His contributions to USAHarmony reflect a commitment to quality journalism and a desire to serve the public interest. As part of his responsibilities, Jacob also collaborates with colleagues to ensure that USAHarmony maintains a robust online presence, driving discussions around important insurance topics on social media and other platforms. His dedication to ethical reporting is evident in his commitment to fact-checking and presenting balanced perspectives in his stories. In addition to his reporting duties, Jacob is continuously looking for ways to expand his knowledge of the insurance industry, attending industry conferences and engaging with professionals to stay informed about the latest developments and trends. His proactive approach and passion for the field make him an asset to USAHarmony and a respected figure in insurance journalism.Jacob Charles is a dedicated Senior Reporter at USAHarmony, where he has been making significant contributions for the past year. With a keen focus on the insurance industry, Jacob covers a range of topics that delve into the complexities and nuances of insurance-related issues. His reporting not only informs consumers but also sheds light on corporate practices and regulatory changes that impact individuals and businesses alike. In his role, Jacob investigates and writes about various facets of the insurance world, including health insurance, auto insurance, property insurance, and emerging trends like insurtech innovations. He seeks to illuminate how these topics affect everyday lives, from the intricacies of policy selection to the implications of recent legislation. Jacob’s ability to translate complex insurance jargon into accessible language makes his work valuable to both industry professionals and general readers. His commitment to holding powerful corporations accountable drives his investigative approach. Jacob often highlights stories of consumers facing challenges within the insurance system, bringing attention to issues such as claim denials, fraud, and the importance of consumer rights. His work aims to empower readers with knowledge, helping them navigate the often-complicated world of insurance. Jacob’s background in journalism, coupled with his passion for storytelling, positions him as a knowledgeable and trusted voice in the industry. He leverages data, interviews, and expert opinions to produce comprehensive articles that not only inform but also engage his audience. His contributions to USAHarmony reflect a commitment to quality journalism and a desire to serve the public interest. As part of his responsibilities, Jacob also collaborates with colleagues to ensure that USAHarmony maintains a robust online presence, driving discussions around important insurance topics on social media and other platforms. His dedication to ethical reporting is evident in his commitment to fact-checking and presenting balanced perspectives in his stories. In addition to his reporting duties, Jacob is continuously looking for ways to expand his knowledge of the insurance industry, attending industry conferences and engaging with professionals to stay informed about the latest developments and trends. His proactive approach and passion for the field make him an asset to USAHarmony and a respected figure in insurance journalism.