Review of Labour Ministry’s Initiatives
The Ministry of Labour and Employment conducted a comprehensive review of its various offices and autonomous institutions today. The meeting took place at Shram Shakti Bhawan in New Delhi, chaired by Secretary Ms. Sumita Dawra. This review aimed to assess the functioning of key organizations such as the Chief Labour Commissioner (Central), Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), and the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC). The meeting also focused on training institutions like the V.V. Giri National Labour Institute (VVGNLI) and the Dattopant Thengadi National Board for Workers Education and Development (DTNBWED). The discussions highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to improving labour welfare and employment services across the country.
Focus on Industrial Disputes and Claims
During the review, the Ministry emphasized the need to resolve pending cases of industrial disputes and claims. The Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) will lead this initiative. The Ministry aims to ensure timely onboarding of inspection reports on the Shram Suvidha Portal. This portal is crucial for streamlining processes related to labour inspections. The review also included discussions on improving inspection formats to enhance efficiency.
Additionally, the Ministry highlighted the importance of addressing the backlog in the Central Government Industrial Tribunal-cum-Labour Courts (CGITs). The introduction of e-Courts was discussed as a means to bring about necessary reforms. The training of Central Labour Service (CLS) officers is also a priority. This training will focus on the development needs of tripartite constituents, including Central and State officers, trade union members, and employment organization representatives. By enhancing the skills of these officers, the Ministry aims to improve the overall functioning of labour-related processes.
Enhancing Training and Capacity Building
The Ministry directed both training institutes, DTNBWED and VVGNLI, to review and rationalize their existing training modules. This review must be conducted in a time-bound manner to align with contemporary labour welfare and employment requirements. The Capacity Building Commission will be consulted during this process to ensure that the training programs meet current needs.
Furthermore, the EPFO has been tasked with preparing for the launch of the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme. This preparation includes ensuring that the IT infrastructure is ready and that capacity-building measures are in place. The EPFO must also be prepared for the upcoming Central Board of Trustees (CBT) meeting scheduled for November 30, 2024. This meeting will be crucial for discussing various important aspects related to the ELI Scheme and other initiatives.
Strengthening Social Security for Workers
The review also addressed the Ministry’s work in the Labour Bureau, particularly regarding the finalization of various surveys. One key survey is the All India Quarterly Establishment-based Employment Survey (AQEES). The progress of the Minimum Wage Committee was also discussed. In terms of employment, the Ministry emphasized the need to upgrade the National Career Service (NCS) portal. This upgrade will help in better serving job seekers and employers alike.
The ESIC was urged to prioritize several areas, including the establishment of new medical colleges and improving procurement processes. Strengthening the audit cell and enhancing the quality of ESIC and ESIS hospitals were also highlighted as essential tasks. The Ministry stressed the importance of tying up with the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) to improve healthcare services for workers.
In conclusion, the Chair emphasized that strengthening social security for workers, particularly unorganized workers, is vital. Improved healthcare, retirement benefits, and pension schemes will enhance the health and productivity of employees. This, in turn, will contribute to nation-building and the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
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