Baipariguda, June 16: A block-level conference of the Cook-Cum-Helper Association of Baipariguda Block in Koraput district was held at Hatpada under the chairmanship of Yamuna Gouda.
Addressing the gathering, Uttam Mallik, State Executive President of the association, announced that the organization would continue its movement demanding:
Recognition of cook-cum-helpers as workers/labourers.
A monthly salary of ₹26,000.
Pension benefits for retired workers.
Payment of salaries for all 12 months of the year.
No privatization of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
Social security benefits such as Provident Fund (PF) and Employees’ State Insurance (ESI).
Free higher education for their children.
House-site pattas and loans for house construction.
He stated that AITUC (All India Trade Union Congress) is the only major organization that has consistently fought for the rights of cook-cum-helpers and has helped increase their honorarium from ₹200 to ₹3,000.
The conference resolved that all members would contribute a monthly membership fee of ₹10.
For the coming year, Yamuna Gouda was elected President, Jogendra Singh Chhantal as Secretary, and Maina Pujari as Treasurer. A 21-member executive committee was also formed.
Greetings and best wishes were conveyed to the conference by Pramod Kumar Mohanty, a member of the National Council of AITUC.
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