Karnataka to regularise services of pourakarmikas from May 1

In a significant move ahead of Labour Day, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that services of thousands of pourakarmikas (civic workers) across the state will be regularised starting May 1. The announcement was made during the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Pourakarmikas Maha Sangha, recognising the vital contribution of sanitation workers to urban hygiene and public health.

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The state currently has around 42,000 pourakarmikas. Of these, 11,133 were brought into the regular workforce in 2023, with the remaining 30,867 workers now set to be included under the regularisation scheme. The government also aims to ensure professional dignity for these frontline workers.

For Bengaluru, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar outlined a comprehensive support plan, with the BBMP allocating ₹730 crore for salaries and pensions. Families of deceased workers will receive ₹10 lakh in assistance, and a new pension scheme will provide ₹6,000 per month. Additionally, ₹64 crore has been earmarked for welfare measures including safety gear, healthcare, housing, education, and skill development.

The government also plans to send 1,000 civic workers abroad each year to help them gain international exposure. The initiative extends to contract-based vehicle drivers, whose services will also be regularised.

To improve identity and healthcare access, the state will issue cashless health cards to all pourakarmikas. The move marks a comprehensive step toward enhancing the livelihoods and dignity of sanitation workers across Karnataka.