In India, several schemes and programs specifically target migrant laborers to address their unique needs and challenges. These initiatives aim to provide social protection, welfare benefits, and support services to migrant workers and their families. Here are some migrant labor-specific schemes in India:
One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC):
- The One Nation One Ration Card scheme enables migrant workers to access subsidized food grains under the Public Distribution System (PDS) from any fair price shop across the country. This scheme ensures that migrant workers and their families can avail of food security benefits regardless of their location.
Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979:
- This legislation aims to regulate the employment and working conditions of inter-state migrant workers in India. It mandates the registration of establishments employing migrant workers, provides for the issuance of identity cards, and specifies welfare measures for migrant workers, including payment of wages, accommodation, medical facilities, and transportation.
Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996:
- The Building and Other Construction Workers Act mandates the registration of construction workers, including migrant laborers, with welfare boards established by state governments. The act provides for various welfare measures, including financial assistance, healthcare services, education support, and housing benefits for construction workers and their families.
Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan (PM-SYM):
- PM-SYM is a voluntary contributory pension scheme for unorganized sector workers, including migrant laborers, with monthly income up to ₹15,000. Under this scheme, eligible workers are provided with a pension of ₹3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years.
Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana (ABV KY):
- ABV KY is an unemployment benefit scheme for insured persons covered under the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Act, including migrant workers. The scheme provides financial assistance to insured persons who have lost employment involuntarily for a maximum period of 90 days due to various reasons, including retrenchment, closure of establishment, or layoff.
National Career Service (NCS):
- The National Career Service portal provides a platform for job seekers, including migrant workers, to register their profiles, search for employment opportunities, and access skill development programs and career counseling services. The portal facilitates job matching between employers and job seekers across India.
Skill Development Initiatives:
- Various skill development initiatives, such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), provide training and certification to unskilled and semi-skilled workers, including migrant laborers, to enhance their employability and income-earning opportunities in different sectors of the economy.
- These schemes and programs for migrant laborers in India aim to address the socio-economic vulnerabilities and challenges faced by migrant workers and improve their well-being, livelihoods, and social inclusion. Collaboration between central and state governments, employers, trade unions, civil society organizations, and migrant communities is essential for the effective implementation and impact of these initiatives.
