Mamata Accepts Demands: Asha Workers Get 6-Month Maternity Leave, ICDS Benefits Too

• Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced significant benefits for Asha and ICDS workers in the state budget.
• Asha workers will receive an additional 1,000 rupees monthly and 180 days (6 months) of maternity leave starting April 2026.
• A lump sum compensation of 5 lakh rupees will be provided to the next of kin if an Asha worker dies prematurely while on duty.
• Anganwadi workers and helpers (ICDS) will also see their monthly honorarium increase by 1,000 rupees from April 2026.
• Similar to Asha workers, ICDS workers' families will receive 5 lakh rupees compensation in case of on-duty death.