Irulam: The distribution of compensation to workers of Mariyanadu estate under the Wayanad Development Package has kicked off to a start. Minister for Scheduled Tribes Development O R Kelu inaugurated the distribution by personally handing over compensation to five workers at a function held on Wednesday.The remaining 136 eligible workers will receive the compensation directly through their bank accounts.

Addressing the event, the Minister described the move as a comprehensive solution to a crisis that had been lingering for over two decades. He credited the breakthrough to proactive government intervention and constructive dialogue between trade union leaders and the district administration.

The Kerala government has sanctioned ₹5 crore for the rehabilitation of the workers by including the compensation plan under the Wayanad package. The funds are meant for 141 former workers of the Mariyanadu estate, which operated under the Kerala Forest Development Corporation, which ceased functioning in 2004.

The final settlement was reached after workers, the dependents of deceased employees and trade union representatives accepted the government's proposal. The compensation package adheres to labour laws and government guidelines, with benefits based on years of service and official records like attendance registers and EPF data.

A Project Implementation Unit chaired by the Wayanad District Collector was constituted to oversee administrative approval and execution of the Rs.5 crore plan, which was cleared by the State Planning Board as part of the district’s development package.

The workers had lost their jobs when the estate shut down in 2004. The compensation covers gratuity, retrenchment benefits and accumulated interest. Retrenchment compensation was calculated at 15 days’ wages per year of service, with 10% interest from 2005, while gratuity was paid with 15% interest.The payment was calculated based on the worker’s attendance register and EPF details.

Out of the 141 beneficiaries, 136 had completed at least 9 years of service. Two workers had 5 years of service, one had worked for a year and two were temporary employees. 21 beneficiaries have passed away since the closure.

MLA I C Balakrishnan presided over the event. Among those present were Panamaram block panchayat president Girija Krishnan, Poothady panchayat president Mini Krishnan, District Collector Dr R Meghashree, Sub Collector Misal Sagar Bharath, Deputy Planning Officer K S Sreejith and District Labour Officer C Vinod Kumar.