Comprehensive Welfare Schemes for Skilled and Unskilled Migrant Labourers

The skilled and unskilled labour both play an important part in the Indian Economy. During pandemic many labourers suffered due to loss of employment. The government has implemented many laws, policies, programs & schemes for providing social & economic benefits & uplifting their standard of living.  Some example of the welfare schemes are:

What is eShram portal - "One-Stop-Solution"

The Ministry of Labour and Employment launched the eShram portal on 26th August 2021& further added the eShram - “One-Stop-Solution”on 21^st October 2024. It is an initiative of the government in which unskilled workers register themselves to avail themselves of government benefits. It proved to be a significant step to create a database for unorganised workers nationwide. Till 26^th November 2024, over 30.42 crore unorganised workers have successfully registered on the eShram portal. Its objectives are:

·         To track the numbers of skilled and unskilled workers in India

·         Registered workers can access various government welfare schemes.

·         Workers can track their benefits, etc.

·         Integration of various welfare schemes

Integrated Schemes on the eShram Portal

12 different welfare schemes under the central government have been integrated successfully intoeShram- A one-stop solution. Some of these are mentioned below:

• Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY
• Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY)
• Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
• Prime Minister Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM-SVANidhi)
• PM Awas Yojana- Urban (PMAY-U)
• PM Awas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G)
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)

Other initiatives by the government:

The Constitution of India provides social & economic welfare to all. The Directive Principle of the State Policy is enshrined in Part IV of the Constitution. Part IV of the Constitution aims to direct the legislative and executive organs of the government while framing the policies.

Article 39 of the Constitution

The state shall take the necessary steps to secure:-

All citizens equally have the right to an adequate means of livelihood.

The distribution of material resources should be in a way thatserves the best common good

The operation of the economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth.

Equal pay for equal work

No exploitation of workers, including men, women, and children. Abuse in terms of strength, economic necessity and age.

Protection of children from any exploitation and abuse: children must be given opportunities and facilities to develop healthily.

For this, the government has enacted four labour codes aimed at providingworkers with social security, health benefits, maternity leaves, etc. The four labour codes are:

·         Code on Wages, 2019

·         Industrial Relations Code, 2020

·         Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions, 2020

·         Social Security Code, 2020

Key provisions of these labour codes:

·         To provide Minimum wages & timely payments

·         Health benefits like regular checkups, maternity leaves & their safety measures.

·         Public Distribution Systems can be availed from anywhere.

·         Gender-neutral policies, including maternity paid leaves of up to 26 weeks

Conclusion

The Indian government’s initiatives for skilled and unskilled migrant labourers reflect a strong commitment to uplifting their socio-economic status. From health insurance and affordable housing to pension schemes and employment opportunities, these measures aim to ensure dignity, security, and inclusivity for all workers. Additionally, platforms like the eShram portal and labour codes consolidate benefits and simplify access, promoting a streamlined approach to welfare. These efforts not only support migrant workers but also strengthen the backbone of the Indian economy, fostering growth and equality.