Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): In a major push for labor welfare, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced the formation of a State Social Security Board during a state-level awareness and felicitation ceremony held at Tau Devi Lal Stadium, Gurugram, on Sunday. The Chief Minister emphasized that workers are the strongest pillars of the economy and play a pivotal role in achieving the goal of a “Developed India” by 2047. Addressing a gathering at the event, which was also attended by Industry and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh, the CM highlighted Haryana’s leadership in protecting labor interests through historic wage hikes and transparent financial support.
A significant highlight of the ceremony was the Chief Minister’s announcement regarding social security for auto-rickshaw and commercial vehicle drivers. Responding to a demand by the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, he stated that the newly formed State Social Security Board would extend its benefits to this segment of the workforce. Furthermore, he assured that the process of issuing appointment letters under the “Service Security Rules” is currently underway and will be completed for all eligible employees by June 15.
35% Hike in Minimum Wage and Direct Benefit Transfers
The Chief Minister noted that Haryana became the first state in the country to implement a 35% increase in minimum basic wages on April 8 under the “Code on Wages” provisions. He pointed out that while the previous government saw minimum wages rise from 2,903 rupees to 6,289 rupees in ten years, the current administration has increased it over three-fold to 19,425 rupees in 11 years. To further support the labor class, the CM transferred 40 crore rupees via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the bank accounts of 34,197 workers under 29 different welfare schemes.
Digital Integration and Healthcare Initiatives
The government’s focus on transparency was underscored by the success of the e-Shram portal, where 54.32 lakh workers from the unorganized sector and 33.58 lakh from the organized sector are currently registered in Haryana. Registered workers also receive an incentive of 1,100 rupees. Highlighting upcoming healthcare infrastructure, the Chief Minister shared the following updates:
- Hospital Expansion: The ESI hospital in Manesar is being upgraded from 100 to 200 beds and will soon house a medical college.
- New Dispensaries: New ESIC dispensaries will be opened in Harsaru, Kadipur, Wazirabad, Shahbad Markanda, and Fatehabad.
- Free Checkups: The “Safe Worker Health System” is being launched to provide annual free health checkups for industrial workers and comprehensive free medical services for registered construction workers.
Industry and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh echoed these sentiments, stating that Haryana’s industrial and investment growth is built on the hard work of its labor force. He reiterated the state’s commitment to ensuring workers lead a life of dignity with secure futures for their children through initiatives like the upcoming Atal Residential Schools for grades 6 to 12. The event concluded with the Chief Minister acknowledging the “Silicosis Rehabilitation Policy,” which has already provided 41.74 crore rupees in aid to 673 victims, alongside various marriage and maternity benefits.
