New Delhi: Bihar’s Labour Resources Minister, Santosh Kumar Singh, has called for sweeping reforms to ensure the welfare of migrant construction workers from the state. During a meeting with the Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, Singh proposed several measures to address issues faced by Bihar’s workforce, particularly those employed in other states.
Bihar contributes significantly to the construction sector across India, with a large number of its workers employed in states such as Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Despite their critical role in these states’ economic growth, many workers are unable to access local welfare schemes.
Call for a National Portal and Portable Benefits
Singh proposed the creation of a nationwide portal to maintain a centralised database of construction workers from all states, enabling greater transparency and inclusivity in welfare schemes. He also emphasised the need for portability in these schemes, allowing workers to access benefits seamlessly across state borders.
Push for a 100-Bed ESIC Hospital in Muzaffarpur
One of the key issues raised by the Bihar minister was the pending construction of a 100-bed hospital under the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) in Muzaffarpur. Singh highlighted delays in land transfer and payment approvals, despite repeated applications by the state government. He urged the Union Minister to expedite the process and ensure the hospital project moves forward without further delays.
The Bihar government has submitted several applications on this matter, including letters dated July 31, October 18, and November 14, 2024, from various officials, including the departmental secretary and the director of medical services. Singh reiterated the hospital’s importance for providing medical services to insured workers and their families in the region.
Addressing Broader Challenges in ESI Services
Singh also raised concerns about delays in forming the ESI Society, which is essential for regularising the recruitment of doctors and ensuring adequate staffing across ESI hospitals. He called for swift action to establish the society and improve the availability of medical personnel. Additionally, Singh requested reconsideration of the decision to discontinue the ongoing payment facility after September 30, 2024, fearing that such a move would disrupt access to medical care for insured workers and their dependents.
Strengthening Social Security for Workers
The minister proposed issuing central guidelines to enhance and equalise social security schemes under the Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act, 1996. He stressed the need to address disparities and improve coverage for workers, ensuring their access to welfare benefits irrespective of their location.
Bihar’s Commitment to Worker Welfare
The Bihar government reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding the rights of workers, especially migrants, who form the backbone of the state’s labour force. “These initiatives are crucial for securing the rightful dues of workers and ensuring their hard-earned contributions are recognised across the country,” Singh said.
The meeting marks a significant step in Bihar’s efforts to advocate for its workers at the national level, addressing longstanding challenges and pushing for equitable solutions to benefit one of the most vulnerable sections of the workforce.
