PUNE: The Maharashtra State Community Health Officers Association has begun a statewide strike. A symbolic, day-long fast begins on  Monday, January 16. However, if the demands were not met, the organisation has stated on behalf of its members that they would begin an indefinite fast on January 23.

The organisation has demanded to be retained in the government service and be conferred the Group 'B' status. In addition, as per the guidelines of the Central Government, an increase in salary and experience bonus of ₹40,000 should be given, ten percent of the basic salary should be paid based on work, transfer outside the district and within the district, central government.  The organisation has demanded that 23 indicators should be cancelled or ₹1,000 should be paid per indicator.

According to the guidelines of the Central Government, promotions and hard area allowance should be given to all sub-centres issued by the government, TA, DA, Provident Fund and Insurance Cover were also mentioned in the press release of the association.