Kolkata, Feb 18 (KNN) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced a series of steps to make the lives of contractual and casual daily-rated workers of all State Government departments, agencies and institutions easier.

The announcements were made at a press conference eat Nabanna yesterday following a meeting of the State Cabinet yesterday.

For Group D contractual and casual workers, services would not be terminated till 60 years of age, according to an official release.

The salary of all such workers has been increased, from Rs 10,000 per month for those working for less than five years, to Rs 20,000 for those working for more than 20 years. The slabs are: less than five years, from five to 10 years, from 10 to 15 years, from 15 to 20 years and more than 20 years.

The services of all Group C contractual and casual daily-rated workers would also not be terminated till 60 years of age, the release added.

Their salaries have been almost doubled; and the salaries would be revised upward by 3% every year. Also, after crossing 60 years, they would get a one-time retirement benefit of Rs 2 lakh.

The contractual and casual workers have also been brought under insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh. The government would be spending Rs 500 crore a year to cover their insurance. The number of days of leave has also been increased to 40 days from 30 days.

Besides, a high-powered committee comprising the chief secretary, finance secretary and others would be formed to look into what other benefits can be extended to the contractual and casual daily-rated workers. It would submit its report by August 30. (KNN Bureau)