Centre Pushes Inclusive Labour Reforms; Odisha Voices Strong Support

Bhubaneswar: India’s labour force is set to benefit from a new wave of inclusive reforms, with the Union Government prioritising dignity, security, and opportunity for workers. At a high-level national consultation meeting chaired by Union Labour and Employment Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, states across the country—including Odisha—pledged active cooperation in shaping transformative policies.

Representing Odisha, Labour and ESI Minister Ganeshram Singhkhuntia, along with Principal Secretary  Chithra Arumugam and Labour Commissioner Indramani Tripathy, participated in the deliberations.

Dr. Mandaviya reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to Viksit Bharat 2047, the vision of a developed India by the centenary of independence, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasised that sound, transparent, and inclusive governance frameworks are essential to achieving this goal, with labour reforms forming a central pillar.

Key areas of discussion included simplifying registration for establishments through a single process, extending the validity of licences with automatic renewals, and ensuring that appointment letters are made mandatory to formalise employment and safeguard workers’ rights. Dr. Mandaviya also called for stronger measures to enhance female participation in the workforce by providing inclusive policies and safer workplaces. Digital transformation was highlighted as another important focus area, with platforms such as the National Career Service (NCS) and e-Shram positioned as crucial elements of India’s employment and social security infrastructure. The Minister stressed the principle of “once covered, always covered” to guarantee uninterrupted social security coverage for workers despite job changes or mobility.

Legal reforms were also discussed, including the compounding of offences under Section 14 and the introduction of new provisions to rationalise penalties, encouraging compliance through reform rather than punishment.

Welcoming these initiatives, Odisha’s Labour and ESI Minister Singhkhuntia said the proposed reforms would significantly benefit the “real labourers”—the silent nation builders who are driving the country’s growth through their hard work. He reiterated Odisha’s strong support for the reform process and emphasised the need for effective implementation at the grassroots level so that both rural and urban workers can access these benefits.

Concluding the meeting, Dr. Mandaviya urged states and union territories to share their reform-oriented suggestions without delay. He noted that the success of labour reforms depends on the active and equal participation of the Centre, state governments, and local administrations, underscoring that collaborative effort at every level is vital for creating a stronger and more secure workforce.