Anganwadi workers staged a protest in Chasal on Tuesday, February 3, voicing strong dissatisfaction with the Union Budget 2026–27. The demonstrators said the budget fails to address their long-pending demands related to wages, working conditions, and adequate funding for the Anganwadi system that serves vulnerable children and mothers across Assam.
The protest, organised in the city, drew participation from Anganwadi workers and helpers from different parts of Guwahati, reflecting growing concern within the frontline workforce of child nutrition and care services.
Anganwadi workers protested in Guwahati’s Chasal on February 3, alleging that the Union Budget 2026–27 ignores their demands for better wages, working conditions, and funding. The workers said the allocation for Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2 is inadequate, given the scale of responsibilities across India.
Representation Sent to the Union Finance Minister
In a formal representation addressed to Nirmala Sitharaman, the Assam Rajyik Anganwadi Karmi & Sahayika Santha said the budget proposals remain silent on the rights and challenges of Anganwadi workers and helpers operating under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), now known as PM Poshan-2.
The organisation said frontline workers continue to shoulder extensive responsibilities without commensurate remuneration or improvements in service conditions.
Budget Allocation Under Scrutiny
According to the union, the total allocation of ₹23,100 crore for Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2 for 2026–27 is intended to support:
- Nearly 8 crore children
- Around 2 crore pregnant women
- Close to 26 lakh Anganwadi workers and helpers
- More than 14 lakh Anganwadi centres nationwide
Protesters argued that the allocation is insufficient considering infrastructure gaps, rising costs, and the scale of human resources involved.
Guwahati as a Protest Hub
Guwahati, which coordinates many ICDS and nutrition programme activities for Assam, has increasingly become a focal point for Anganwadi workers to raise their concerns. Participants said demonstrating in the city was aimed at drawing the attention of both the state and central governments.
Workers said similar concerns are being echoed by Anganwadi staff across districts, but Guwahati provides visibility and access to administrative authorities.
Demands Reiterated
Protesters reiterated demands for:
- Higher and regular wages
- Improved working conditions
- Enhanced budgetary support for Anganwadi centres
- Formal recognition of Anganwadi workers as part of the workforce with social security benefits
Why This Matters for Guwahati
As Assam’s administrative and policy centre, Guwahati plays a key role in implementing nutrition and child welfare schemes. Funding decisions at the national level directly affect service delivery and workforce morale in the city and across the state.
What Happens Next
The union said it would continue to press its demands through formal representations and peaceful protests if concerns remain unaddressed. No official response from the Union Finance Ministry had been issued at the time of reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where did the Anganwadi workers’ protest take place in Guwahati?
The protest was held at Chasal in Guwahati on February 3.
Q2. What is the main issue raised by the workers?
They allege that the Union Budget 2026–27 does not adequately address wages, working conditions, and funding needs of Anganwadi workers under Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.
