The Goa government has amended the Retirement Benefit Scheme for Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs), extending the retirement age to 62 years with retrospective effect from May 1, 2024. The move aims to provide greater financial security and clarity for the state’s Anganwadi workforce.
As per the revised scheme, AWWs and AWHs—who are classified as honorary workers under the Anganwadi Services Scheme—will now retire at 62, provided they clear a medical fitness test from a government medical hospital beyond the age of 60.
According to the notification issued Thursday:
Workers who would have retired on or after April 30, 2024, will now retire at 62.
Retirement will always take effect on April 30 of the calendar year.
If the worker’s birth month is January to April, retirement occurs in the same year.
If the birth month is May to December, retirement is deferred to April 30 of the following year.
Upon reaching the age of superannuation:
Anganwadi Workers will receive ₹5 lakh as a one-time retirement benefit.
Anganwadi Helpers will receive ₹3 lakh.
If found medically unfit at age 60, the same benefits apply upon retirement at that stage.
The government’s decision has been widely welcomed by Anganwadi associations, calling it a step toward dignity and recognition for grassroots women workers.