Arogyamitras in Maharashtra Demand Salary Hike, Plan Indefinite Strike from February 12

MUMBAI: Arogyamitras, the frontline facilitators under the Integrated Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY) in Maharashtra, have been seeking justice at the state level, demanding a salary increase and better working conditions. Despite their significant role in implementing government healthcare schemes, their concerns remain unaddressed.

Since 2012, Arogyamitras have been responsible for promoting public health awareness, organizing medical camps, updating patient records, and coordinating with supervisors, district heads, and area managers. Their role became even more critical after the introduction of Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana in 2018, which extended healthcare benefits across Maharashtra and other states. However, these skilled professionals, many of whom are highly qualified women with computer and communication expertise, continue to work on meager wages under the State Health Assurance Society (SHAS).

In a bid to push their long-pending demands, Arogyamitras staged a one-day protest on August 23, 2024, at Jeevandayee Bhavan, Worli, Mumbai. During the protest, the Chief Executive Officer of the State Arogya Guarantee Society directed the Third-Party Assistance (TPA) agency to address their salary hike. However, no concrete action has been taken so far.

Frustrated by inaction, the health workers in Maharashtra announced an indefinite strike starting February 12, 2025. In response, Annasaheb Chavan, CEO of SHAS, has called for a meeting on February 7 at 12 PM to discuss their demands. The outcome of this meeting will determine whether the strike will proceed or if the government will finally address the grievances of these essential health workers.