Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, has called upon the nation’s workforce to become active participants in the government’s ambitious “Viksit Bharat” initiative. Speaking at a recent gathering in Hubballi, the Minister emphasized that the dream of a developed India by 2047 cannot be realized without the foundational contributions of the labour sector.
Labourers as Architects of National Growth
Addressing a large assembly of workers and trade union representatives, Karandlaje highlighted the indispensable role that both organized and unorganized sector workers play in the national economy. She remarked that while policy frameworks provide a roadmap, it is the sweat and dedication of the labourers on the ground that transform these visions into tangible infrastructure and economic strength.
“The journey toward a ‘Viksit Bharat’ or Developed India is not merely a government project; it is a collective national mission,” Karandlaje stated. She urged the workforce to embrace modern skill sets and adapt to the changing technological landscape to ensure that India remains competitive on the global stage.
Strengthening Social Security and Welfare
During her address, the Minister reiterated the Union Government’s commitment to ensuring the dignity and safety of all workers. She pointed to several initiatives aimed at expanding the social security net, including the E-Shram portal, which seeks to create a comprehensive database of unorganized workers to better facilitate the delivery of welfare schemes.
Key Focus Areas for Labour Empowerment:
- Skill Upgradation: Encouraging workers to utilize government-sponsored vocational training to enhance employability.
- Healthcare Access: Expanding the reach of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) to provide better medical facilities.
- Financial Inclusion: Ensuring that every labourer has access to banking services and direct benefit transfers (DBT).
A Vision for 2047
As India looks toward its centenary of independence, the Minister noted that the labour department is working on simplifying complex labour laws into manageable codes. These reforms are designed to balance the ease of doing business with the fundamental rights and protections of the employees. By fostering a harmonious relationship between employers and employees, the government aims to create a more robust industrial ecosystem that will serve as the engine for the Viksit Bharat goal.
