Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, who took oath on May 18, announced a set of key measures at his first cabinet meeting held shortly after assuming office.
As a major welfare step aimed at easing financial burden, the government said working women across Kerala will be able to travel free of cost on government buses from June 15.
Reflecting a focus on the state’s growing elderly population, the cabinet also approved the creation of a dedicated department for senior citizens’ welfare.
In addition, the government announced an increase of Rs 3,000 in the honorarium for ASHA workers, recognising their frontline role in Kerala’s health system.
Pay hikes were also announced for Anganwadi workers and helpers, with Rs 1,000 each. The Chief Minister further assured an additional Rs 1,000 increase for school cooks and kindergarten teachers.
