Recognise scheme workers as full-fledged labourers: Minister

Minister for Labour V. Sivankutty has written to Union Minister for Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya seeking recognition for scheme workers as full-fledged labourers with due rights and entitlements under the Union government’s labour laws.

Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, midday meal workers, and other scheme-based workers should receive minimum wages, provident fund, pension, maternity benefits, and other entitlements under the EPF Act, ESI Act, and other labour laws.

Considering the permanent nature of their work, a framework should be developed for their absorption as regular employees with full service benefits.

The Minister also called for constitution of a tripartite committee with representation from State governments, worker organisations, and the Union government to frame a policy for regularisation and welfare of scheme workers.

Urging the Union government to ensure that scheme workers received their due legal status and benefits, Mr. Sivankutty expressed willingness to collaborate with it to formulate a model policy that could be implemented nationwide.