Bihar’s ‘Pravasi Kamgar’ App: Digital Push to Assist Migrant Workers With Jobs, Benefits
Patna : The Bihar government has launched a new mobile application to support migrant workers, aiming to provide them with employment opportunities, skill development, and access to social security schemes. The Bihar Pravasi Kamgar App was unveiled in Patna by Labour Resources Minister Santosh Kumar Singh, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to assist its large migrant workforce.
Speaking at the launch event at Pratibimb Auditorium, Niyojan Bhawan, Minister Singh described the initiative as a “boon for lakhs of migrant labourers” from Bihar who work outside the state. He said the app, launched under the Saat Nischay-2 programme, would help create a comprehensive database of migrant workers at the panchayat level, allowing the government to formulate targeted welfare policies.
20 lakh workers to be registered
The state government has set an ambitious target of registering 20 lakh migrant workers, with at least 10 lakh registrations to be completed in the first three months. Labour enforcement officers have been tasked with ensuring the registration of at least 500 workers per month in each panchayat. Workers residing outside Bihar will also be able to register themselves on the app. Once registered, they will receive a 12-digit identification number, allowing them to access government schemes.
The app will collect essential details such as name, address, educational qualifications, employment history, mobile number, and bank account details, enabling the government to monitor and support workers more effectively.
Social security and accident grant scheme
A key feature of the initiative is its link to the Bihar State Migrant Labourer Accident Grant Scheme, 2008, which provides financial assistance to migrant workers and their families in case of accidents. The scheme offers Rs2 lakh in case of accidental death and Rs1.5 lakh and Rs1 lakh for complete and partial disability, respectively. With the panchayat-wise data collection, officials hope to ensure better implementation of this and other welfare programmes.
Public outreach and awareness campaign
Labour Resources Department Secretary Deepak Anand said the government would launch a special outreach campaign at the district and panchayat levels to ensure migrant workers are aware of the app. Information about the initiative will be disseminated through social media, press releases, and public meetings. Government employees, community workers, and self-help groups will also be mobilised to spread awareness.
In addition, special registration camps will be set up at panchayat offices, railway stations, and bus stops to help workers sign up for the app. District labour officials have been tasked with ensuring the smooth execution of the campaign, with daily progress reports and periodic reviews at different administrative levels.
Incentives for officials
Labour Commissioner Rajesh Bharti announced that the government would reward the best-performing labour enforcement officers and labour superintendents involved in the campaign. He said the app would not only empower migrant workers by linking them to government schemes but also contribute to Bihar’s overall development by strengthening its workforce.
