Determinants of Income of the Shasthya Shebikas: Evidences from a Pilot MNCH Initiative in the Nilphamari District of Bangladesh

A large number of new Shasthya Shebikas were recruited under the maternal, neonatal and child health (MNCH) program besides the existing ones. This study attempts to explore whether and how the income earning capability of the Shasthya Shebikas, both old and new, was affected due to this new initiative, with respect to Nilphamari district of Bangladesh. The study also brings out the determinants of income Shasthya Shebikas and also the motivation for their work in general. Findings revealed that the motivation to become a Shasthya Shebika was mainly financial though for some the opportunity to provide socially beneficial services was also important. With respect to a number of factors affecting the Shebika’s income, it can be found that the new Shebikas were in disadvantage as compared to the existing Shebikas who were working already in that area. [RED WP no.06]