Ganderbal, February 10:Renowned Social Reformer and Campaigner Bilal Bhat has urged the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to address the long-standing honorarium issues of JKRLM (UMEED) workers, as the CC’s and other staff ( CDEO’s) ,Bank Mitra’s, Mobilizer’s continue their strike.
Bilal Bhat acknowledged the tireless efforts of JKRLM workers in raising awareness, facilitating credit linkages, and ensuring livelihood sustainability at the grassroots level. Despite their significant contributions over the past eight years, their salaries have remained unchanged, leading to growing dissatisfaction and financial hardships among the cadre.
“The JKRLM (UMEED) team plays a crucial role in empowering rural communities, particularly women, through financial literacy and self-sustainability programs. It is imperative that the government takes immediate steps to address their legitimate demands to prevent further disruption in their services,” Bilal Bhat stated.h
The JKRLM, which aims to reduce poverty in the state by building strong grassroots institutions for the poor, has been working towards empowering rural women and providing them with livelihood opportunities. However, the concerns raised by the cadres (CCs ,Bank Mitra’s, Mobilizer’s and CDEOs) highlight the need for a more supportive and sustainable system to be put in place.
The cadres (CCs and CDEOs) of the Jammu Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) have written to the authorities, seeking a revision of the current policy regarding the disbursement of honorarium. They have expressed dissatisfaction with the existing policy, which requires them to collect their honorarium from the respective CLF office. This system has caused unnecessary inconvenience and delays, further adding to their grievances.
Bilal Bhat emphasized that a direct and transparent payment mechanism must be introduced to ensure timely and hassle-free honorarium disbursement. He urged the Jammu and Kashmir administration to take prompt action and implement necessary revisions in the honorarium structure to ensure fair compensation and motivation for these dedicated workers.
Bilal Bhat reaffirmed his support for the JKRLM cadre and called for an early resolution to their grievances so that they can continue their impactful work without financial distress.
