Bhubaneswar: In a proactive move to tackle distress migration in the state, the newly formed Task Force convened its inaugural meeting to discuss measures aimed at preventing the exploitation of migrant workers and ensuring their welfare. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo at Lok Seva Bhawan on Monday.
The gathering brought together key officials, including Pravati Parida, Minister of Mission Shakti, Tourism, and Women and Child Development, as well as other departmental ministers, additional chief secretaries, and principal secretaries.
Minister Deo emphasized the critical need to provide stable employment opportunities for migrant workers and to eliminate the role of illegal contractors. He announced plans for the development of a mobile application to track migrant worker data and the introduction of health cards for these individuals.
“Migrant workers are often exploited under the guise of high wages, only to receive inadequate compensation,” Deo stated. “The Task Force has been established to address these pressing issues. We will register migrants before they leave the state, ensure that labor contractors are licensed, and maintain vigilance over their activities. The proposed mobile app will facilitate the tracking of migrant data, while health cards will ensure their well-being.”
The Deputy Chief Minister further highlighted the importance of enhancing workers’ skills and ensuring timely payment of wages to mitigate migration issues. He reaffirmed the commitment to enforce the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (ISMW) Act, 1979, to prevent unauthorized labor recruitment. To assist migrants, the Odisha government has set up a toll-free number, 1800-345-6703.
Deo emphasized the need for collective efforts among the police, administration, and community awareness campaigns at the village and panchayat levels. “Promoting stable employment and utilizing banking and UPI services will also play a crucial role in resolving migration issues,” he added.
Notably, approximately 838,000 migrant workers returned to Odisha following the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, the government issued around 1,036 labor licenses and conducted 96 inspections. Surveys were carried out in 29 gram panchayats across four districts, including Balangir, Burgher, Kalahandi, and Nuapada, to assess the situation of migrant workers and devise effective interventions.
The Task Force’s initiatives are expected to provide much-needed support and protection for Odisha’s migrant workforce, ensuring their rights and welfare are prioritized.