Chhattisgarh Mid-Day Meal Cooks Launch Indefinite Protest Over Meager Rs 66 Daily Wage
Mid-day meal cooks in Chhattisgarh have started an indefinite protest. They are demanding better wages. Currently, they survive on just Rs 66 a day. This amount is shockingly low for their essential work.
Women Lead the Protest in Large Numbers
Nearly 95 percent of the protesters are women. Many come from rural and tribal areas. These cooks say their labor keeps classrooms running smoothly. They prepare meals for school children every day. Yet, their own households remain on the brink of poverty.
The protest highlights a stark contrast. On one hand, they ensure children receive nutritious meals. On the other hand, they struggle to feed their own families. This situation has pushed them to take drastic action.
Daily Struggles of the Cooks
These cooks work hard in school kitchens. They wake up early to prepare fresh meals. Their tasks include cooking, cleaning, and serving. Despite their crucial role, they earn a pittance. Rs 66 per day is insufficient for basic needs.
Many protesters share personal stories. They talk about skipping meals to save money. Some cannot afford proper healthcare or education for their children. The protest is not just about wages. It is about dignity and survival.
Impact on Education and Communities
The mid-day meal scheme is vital for education. It encourages children to attend school. Cooks play a key part in this process. Without them, the scheme might collapse. Their protest could disrupt meal services in schools.
Communities in Chhattisgarh are watching closely. Parents worry about their children's meals. School authorities face uncertainty. The indefinite nature of the protest adds pressure. A quick resolution seems necessary to avoid further disruption.
This protest sheds light on broader issues. It questions the value placed on women's labor in rural India. It also highlights the challenges faced by tribal communities. The cooks' demand for fair wages resonates with many across the state.
The situation remains tense as the protest continues. Cooks stand firm in their demand for a livable wage. They hope their voices will lead to positive change. For now, they survive on Rs 66 a day, fighting for a better tomorrow.
