KVK on strike
Recently, employees of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across the country went on strike against the disparity in pay and service conditions. The agitation was organised under the aegis of National Forum of KVKs and AICRP (All India Coordinated Research Project).
Main reasons for the strike:
Disparity in pay and service conditions: Employees of KVKs run by ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) get better pay, promotions and service benefits, while employees working under other host institutions (such as State Agricultural Universities, State Departments, NGOs etc.) get lower pay and limited benefits, even though both perform similar functions.
Demand for "One Nation, One KVK" policy: Employees want a uniform policy to be applicable for all KVKs, as recommended by the Paroda High Power Committee.
Discrimination in ICAR policies: Employees allege that the circulars issued by ICAR contain discriminatory and frustrating provisions, which create a hostile work environment for employees of non-ICAR KVKs.
Inequality in promotions and service benefits: Employees of non-ICAR KVKs face inequality in promotions, retirement benefits, compensation on death, etc.
Nature of agitation:
Demonstration and strike: More than 7,000 employees, including scientific, technical and administrative staff, demonstrated in more than 600 non-ICAR KVKs across the country.
Wearing of black badges: Employees protested by wearing black badges on ICAR Foundation Day.
Employees' demands:
Implementation of equal pay and service conditions for all KVKs.
Elimination of discriminatory policies of ICAR.
Ensuring equality in promotions and service benefits.
Implementation of "One Nation, One KVK" policy.
The employees have appealed to the Central and State governments to take prompt action on these demands, so that they can work with more enthusiasm in the service of farmers.