Ministry of Labour & Employment
“When Workers Prosper, the Country Prospers”: Dr Mandaviya
Workers’ Welfare Central to Government’s Vision of National Development, says Dr. Mandaviya
Labour Reforms Focus on Dignity, Security and Empowerment of Workers, says the Union Minister
Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya Addresses Inaugural Session of 21st All India Triennial Conference of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh in Puri, Odisha
Posted On:
06 FEB 2026 3:30PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister for Labour and Employment, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, today addressed the inaugural session of the All India Triennial Conference of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) in Puri, Odisha, and reiterated that the welfare, dignity and security of workers remain central to the Government’s vision of national development.
“I have the privilege to work for Shram Shakti and Yuva Shakti. These two forces are the foundation of India’s progress and will play a decisive role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat,” Dr Mandaviya said.
The Minister said that BMS is not only the largest trade union in India, but also among the largest organisations in the world, and has played an important role in working for workers’ welfare, ensuring justice for the country’s workforce, and empowering them as partners in national development and economic growth.
Emphasising that both workers and industry are equally important for economic growth, the Minister said that harmony and cooperation between the two are essential for building a strong and resilient economy. He noted that the Government has brought the Labour Codes into effect to strengthen this balance, enhance welfare provisions and social security for workers, while simplifying compliances for industries.
“I congratulate BMS for welcoming the Labour Codes, spreading awareness among workers, and countering misinformation, along with 15 other central trade unions. This reflects responsible and constructive leadership, placing workers’ interests above organisational considerations” he said.
Highlighting the enabling provisions of the Labour Codes, the Minister referred to mandatory appointment letters, equal opportunities for men and women, annual health check-ups, and health security for workers engaged in hazardous industries.
Referring to social security initiatives, the Minister said that the Government has worked consistently to expand coverage and strengthen institutional support for workers. He informed that around 940 million people are now covered under social security, as announced by the International Labour Organization (ILO), and underlined the goal of expanding the social security net to cover 1,000 million by 2026.
He further highlighted that ESIC hospitals and medical colleges now provide reservation for children of workers for medical education, helping reduce financial burden while fulfilling their aspirations for higher studies.
Dr Mandaviya stated that BMS has submitted representations on enhancement of Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) wage ceilings, decisions on floor wages, and increase in minimum pension under EPS-95. He assured that these matters will be examined carefully and decisions will be taken in the coming days in the interest of workers.
“The progress of the nation is inseparable from the welfare of its workers. When workers prosper, the country prospers,” he said.
Underscoring the role of workers in building ‘Naya Bharat’, the Minister said that the Government will continue to move forward with worker welfare as its core priority. He reaffirmed that the Government will continue to support organisations that work sincerely for the welfare, empowerment and protection of workers.
Dr. Mandaviya called upon all stakeholders to work together to translate the vision of Viksit Bharat into reality in the spirit of ‘Nation First’. “We must ensure equal opportunities for all, take every worker forward, and empower them to realise their full potential,” he said.
The conference provided a platform for dialogue on labour reforms, social security and worker empowerment, with participation from representatives of workers’ organisations from across the country.
The inaugural session was attended by several dignitaries, including Shri Hiranmay Pandya, National President, BMS, Shri Ravindra Himte, National General Secretary, BMS; Mr Sergei Chernogaev, Chairman, FNPR, Russia; Ma. Shri Bhagaiah, Akhil Bharatiya Karyakarini Sadasya, RSS; and Ms Yuki Otsuji, Worker Specialist, South Asia and Country Office, ILO, New Delhi.
*****
Rini Choudhury/Anjelina Alexander
(Release ID: 2224422)
Visitor Counter : 230