Overview The Karnataka State United Akshara Dasoha (Mid-Day Meal) Workers’ Union , Mysuru, organized a dharna on January 17, 2026 , outside the Zilla Panchayat office . The primary objective was to urge the Union government to address the long-pending demands of mid-day meal workers in the upcoming Union Budget. This action underscores the ongoing challenges faced by workers in the unorganized sector and their reliance on government support for improved working conditions. Key Demands Recognition as Government Employees: The core demand is for mid-day meal workers to be officially recognized as government employees, ensuring job security and associated benefits. Minimum Wages and Statutory Benefits: Until government recognition is granted, the union demands that workers receive minimum wages and other statutory benefits, providing a basic level of financial security. Periodic Revision of Honorariums: The protesters seek regular revisions of honorariums to keep pace with rising prices and inflation, maintaining their purchasing power. Retirement Benefits: The demands include the provision of retirement pensions, Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) , and Provident Fund (PF) benefits, ensuring financial security post-retirement. Gratuity: A one-time gratuity of at least ₹5 lakh is sought for workers retiring after long service, acknowledging their contribution. Opposition to Privatization: The union strongly opposes any move to hand over the mid-day meal scheme to private agencies or NGOs, insisting on direct government implementation to maintain quality and accessibility. UPSC Relevance This news highlights several issues relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam, particularly in GS Paper 2 (Social Justice, Governance) and GS Paper 3 (Economy, Food Security) . The demands of the mid-day meal workers touch upon themes of social security, labor rights, and government policies related to welfare schemes. Understanding these issues is crucial for Mains answer writing and essay preparation. Important Facts Event: Dharna by Karnataka State United Akshara Dasoha Workers’ Union Date: January 17, 2026 Location: Mysuru Zilla Panchayat office Key Demand: Government employee status for mid-day meal workers Gratuity Demand: ₹5 lakh for retiring workers Opposition: Against privatization of the mid-day meal scheme Exam Perspective This event provides a case study for understanding the challenges faced by workers in government-sponsored schemes and the importance of social security measures. It also raises questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of government programs and the role of private entities in service delivery.