India, Feb. 18 -- Aarogya Mitras, who are instrumental in the implementation of the state health insurance scheme, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Aarogya Yojana (MJPJAY), will go on a state-wide indefinite strike from Tuesday outside the district collector offices from 10am, demanding hike in their wages.

Ganesh Shinde, vice-president of Maharashtra Aarogya Mitra Workers Association (MAMWA), said, "We operate the whole system - from the MJPJAY portal to the documentation process - which should qualify us as skilled labours. Yet, we are paid as unskilled labours."

The Aarogya Mitras are appointed by the state at various network hospitals registered under the MJPJAY depending on the flow of patients. There are over 1300 Aarogya mitras current...