Karnataka Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar Assures Anganwadi Workers in Kolar, Koppal, Yadgir of Pending Salaries

In a recent review meeting held at the Tumkur Zilla Panchayat Hall, Karnataka Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar provided an update on the progress of various initiatives under the Women and Child Development Department. The meeting focused on programs including the Grihalakshmi scheme, district and taluk-level child care services, and the basic facilities at Anganwadi centers.

Hebbalkar addressed concerns regarding the payment delays for Anganwadi workers in the districts of Kolar, Koppal, and Yadgir. She assured that the salaries would be disbursed soon, citing that the delay was due to a hold-up in central government funding. "When there are delays from the central government, the state government steps in to provide matching funds. While we have requested funds multiple times, the central government has yet to release them. Our department directors have recently visited Delhi, and we are committed to clearing payments for these districts as quickly as possible, ideally before Ganesh Chaturthi," Hebbalkar said.

The minister emphasized that such delays are not uncommon and assured that efforts would be made to prevent future occurrences. "I do not blame any government, as our department relies on funds from both central and state governments. Delays have been an issue in the past, but we will strive to improve," she added.

Hebbalkar also addressed issues related to milk powder payments and Grihalakshmi account deletions. She confirmed that there were no problems with milk powder procurement and payments, which are made quarterly. Regarding Grihalakshmi accounts, she clarified that no accounts had been deleted. Accounts related to GST or income tax payments may have been deleted after the registration process, but no funds were withheld post-registration.

On the topic of Congress party leadership, Hebbalkar mentioned that the high command's decisions are final and expressed confidence in Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's leadership. She dismissed speculation about potential vacancies in the Chief Minister’s position.

In an unusual move, Hebbalkar tested the functionality of the Women’s Helpline during the meeting. She called the helpline to report a fictional complaint, receiving prompt and responsive service, which she praised.

Overall, the review meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to address administrative issues and ensure timely support for various schemes and workers across Karnataka.