Bengaluru
In a significant move to support frontline healthcare workers, the Karnataka government has released funds for the payment of honorarium to Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) for the first quarter of the 2026–27 financial year.
The decision is expected to benefit thousands of workers who play a crucial role in the state’s public health system.
According to an official order issued by the Department of Health and Family Welfare Karnataka, the government has approved the release of ₹63 crore for the payment of honorarium to Accredited Social Health Activist workers across the state. The amount covers the period from April to June, marking the first quarter of the financial year.
The funds, totaling ₹6300 lakh, have been allocated under the specific account head ‘2211-00-103-0-11-324’. Authorities have clearly stated that the released amount must be used exclusively for the purpose of paying honorarium to ASHA workers and not diverted for any other expenditure.
The government has also issued strict guidelines regarding the utilization of the funds. Officials have been directed to ensure that all payments are processed through the official treasury system, Khajane, to maintain transparency and accountability. Additionally, departments are required to submit utilization certificates after disbursing the funds, confirming that the money has been used as intended.
ASHA workers form the backbone of grassroots healthcare delivery in Karnataka, particularly in rural and underserved areas. They are involved in a wide range of activities, including maternal and child healthcare, immunization drives, disease awareness campaigns, and community outreach programs.
The timely release of honorarium is expected to provide financial stability to these workers, many of whom depend on these payments as a primary source of income. In recent years, there have been concerns over delays in honorarium payments, making this move particularly significant.
Officials from the health department emphasized that ensuring prompt payment is essential not only for the welfare of ASHA workers but also for maintaining the efficiency of public health services. The decision reflects the government’s continued commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.
With this allocation, the state aims to recognize the invaluable contributions of ASHA workers and ensure they remain motivated to serve communities effectively.