Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Announces Increase in Meeting Fees for Mission Shakti Workers
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has taken a significant step towards enhancing the welfare of Mission Shakti workers by announcing an increase in their meeting fees at Gram Panchayat and Block-level Federations. This move, aimed at recognizing the pivotal role played by Mission Shakti in women’s economic and social empowerment, underscores the government’s commitment to supporting grassroots initiatives.
Mission Shakti has emerged as a transformative movement in Odisha, empowering women across the state and driving positive change at the village and block levels. Central to its success are the dedicated workers of various federations, whose tireless efforts have contributed to the effective implementation of self-help group programs. Recognizing their invaluable contribution, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik approved the proposal to enhance their remuneration during discussions with Nabin Odisha Chairman Karthik Pandian.
As per the decision, the meeting fees for presidents, secretaries, and other working members of Gram Panchayat and block-level federations have been raised by Rs 500, with retrospective effect from October 2023. This significant increment reflects the government’s appreciation for the hard work and dedication of Mission Shakti workers.
Under the revised structure, the president and secretary of block-level federations will now receive Rs 4,500 per meeting, compared to the previous amount of Rs 4,000. Similarly, other working members will see their meeting fees increase to Rs 2,500 from Rs 2,000. At the village-level federations, presidents and secretaries will receive Rs 2,500 per meeting, up from Rs 2,000, while other members will now be entitled to Rs 1,500, compared to the earlier Rs 1,000.
This progressive decision will benefit a total of 1,26,010 Mission Shakti workers across Odisha, including 676 block-level federation presidents and secretaries, along with 3,042 other members. Additionally, 13,588 presidents and secretaries of Gram Panchayat Federations, along with 108,704 other members, will also benefit from the increased meeting fees.
The government’s commitment to the welfare of Mission Shakti workers is reflected in this substantial investment, which amounts to Rs 249.21 crore per year. By enhancing the financial remuneration of grassroots workers, the government aims to further empower women and strengthen the socio-economic fabric of rural Odisha. This move is poised to bolster the Mission Shakti initiative and propel its transformative impact across the state.
