Devadasis above 45 years to get Rs 400 monthly pension

Bangalore, Aug 10 (UNI) Devadasis above 45 years of age in Karnataka will be paid a monthly pension of Rs 400 with retrospective effect from April this year, Women and Child Welfare Minister H K Kumaraswamy said today.

Talking to newspersons here, he said the scheme, announced in the Budget for 2007-08, was being implemented now. Necessary circular had been issued for the implementation of the scheme, which would benefit more than 16,000 devadasis in ten districts.

The Government move would entail an extra financial burden of Rs 14 crore annually, he added.

The Minister said a fresh survey of devadasis would be conducted to extend the benefits of the scheme to more of their ilk. The survey would be completed in six months, he added.

Mr Kumaraswamy said the salary of Anganwadi workers had been increased by Rs 200 per month from the present Rs 1,550 and that of helpers by Rs 100 per month from Rs 775. At present, 54,000 Anganwadi centres were functioning in the state and it was proposed to set up 8,000 more such centres soon.

UNI