Enhancing Labour Welfare in India

The recent two-day workshop focused on labour welfare concluded successfully under the leadership of Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Labour & Employment, Youth Affairs, and Sports. This significant event brought together Labour Ministers and Secretaries from various States and Union Territories (UTs). The workshop aimed to discuss and develop actionable plans for improving social security coverage for workers across India. It marked the culmination of six regional workshops and numerous consultations held over the past year, involving all 36 States and UTs.

During the workshop, participants engaged in discussions on over ten subjects across five sessions. The insights gathered will help in designing targeted action items. Three committees, each comprising five States, were formed to further these discussions. These committees will work on creating a sustainable model for comprehensive social security coverage for workers, with a presentation scheduled for March 2025.

Comprehensive Action Plan for Labour Welfare

In his address, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of a comprehensive action plan for all stakeholders involved in labour welfare. He urged States to evaluate the feasibility of adopting best practices showcased during the workshop. The Union Minister reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating closely with State Governments to design various reforms and initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of both organized and unorganized workers.

The discussions included holistic welfare programs that provide essential services such as pensions, healthcare, and life and accident insurance. The focus on these areas reflects a growing recognition of the need for robust social security systems that can support workers in times of need. By fostering a collaborative environment, the Ministry aims to ensure that all workers, regardless of their employment status, have access to the support they require.

Addressing the Needs of Unorganized Workers

A significant portion of the workshop was dedicated to discussing social security for unorganized sector workers. This group includes individuals in construction, gig, and platform economies, who often lack adequate protection and benefits. Dr. Mandaviya stressed the need to develop sustainable social security models tailored to the unique challenges faced by these workers.

The welfare of contract labour was also a key topic. The discussions highlighted the importance of transforming the role of inspectors into inspector-cum-facilitators. This shift aims to reduce compliance burdens while promoting decent working conditions and fostering better relationships between employees and employers. By addressing these issues, the workshop aimed to create a more equitable work environment for all.

Innovations in Social Security Initiatives

States presented their progress in utilizing Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) cess funds to enhance social security coverage. They shared innovative strategies for using these resources to develop educational and skill development institutions for the children of construction workers. The workshop provided a platform for sharing successful initiatives and exploring new ways to utilize available resources effectively.

Additionally, the onboarding of unorganized workers onto the eShram portal was highlighted as a significant achievement. With over 30 crore unorganized workers registered, the government is making strides in delivering benefits to this vulnerable population. The Ministry is also working on a dedicated Social Security and Welfare Scheme for gig and platform workers. The discussions included the modalities of funding, data collection, and administration of the scheme, urging States to prioritize data sharing and support for worker registration.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Cooperative Federalism

The two-day workshop underscored the government’s commitment to promoting labour welfare and facilitating ease of doing business across States and UTs. Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, emphasized the vital role of India’s workforce in achieving the goal of a developed nation by 2047. The consultations held over the past year, culminating in this workshop, aim to maximize social security coverage and ensure the welfare of both organized and unorganized workers.

The collaborative spirit displayed during the meetings reflects a whole-of-government approach necessary for implementing initiatives effectively and in a timely manner. By working together, stakeholders can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all workers in India.

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