Rs 38 Crore Financial Aid Given to 1.1 Lakh Construction Workers in
The government has successfully disbursed Rs 38 crore in financial aid to over 1.1 lakh construction workers in Hassan district, significantly improving the welfare of local labourers. This initiative, which was reviewed by Labour Minister Santosh Lad at the Zilla Panchayat, forms part of a broader effort to ensure better living conditions for workers in the region.
On February 10, 2025, Minister Santosh Lad chaired a progress review meeting with the district’s labour department. During the meeting, he emphasised the importance of efficient distribution of benefits, directing the department to verify all beneficiaries thoroughly before disbursing financial aid. He encouraged close collaboration with local representatives, including the Deputy Commissioner (DC) and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Zilla Panchayat, to ensure the process runs smoothly and transparently. “The distribution of benefits should be carried out meticulously, keeping in mind the well-being of the workers,” Lad said, stressing the need for due diligence in the process.
In addition to the disbursement of funds, Minister Lad took strong measures to protect workers’ rights. He directed officials to revoke the licences of contractors who failed to adhere to the law regarding the payment of minimum wages. By ensuring that contractors follow labour laws, the government aims to prevent exploitation and ensure that workers receive fair wages for their hard work. “The licences of contractors who do not comply with the rules regarding minimum wages must be cancelled, and action will be taken against such violators,” Lad announced. This directive aims to strengthen the protection of construction workers, who are often vulnerable to underpayment and exploitation in the informal sector.
As part of his broader strategy to promote local employment, Lad also instructed officials to establish and register an outsourcing workers’ society in the district. This society would be eligible for a 4G tax exemption, encouraging further economic growth and stability for workers within the region. By fostering a local workforce, the government is also addressing the migration of workers from other states, which has created a burden on local resources. Moreover, Minister Lad suggested holding discussions with plantation owners to integrate interested local workers into the NERAGA (National Employment Guarantee Act) scheme. The NERAGA programme provides guaranteed employment to rural households, and by involving plantation owners, the government hopes to reduce the reliance on external labour, providing a sustainable income for local residents.
Minister Lad highlighted another critical issue in the meeting: child and adolescent labour. He urged the labour department to conduct surprise visits to monitor and prevent child labour, and called for awareness campaigns to educate the public about the harmful effects of employing children. “We need to take strict action to eradicate child and adolescent labour, and awareness must be raised at the grassroots level,” he added. This initiative is in line with the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of young workers and ensuring that children are given the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe, educational environment.
The meeting was attended by several key figures, including MLA Swaroop Prakash, Labour Department Secretary NV Prasad, Labour Commissioner HN Gopalakrishna, Chief Executive Officer Bharati, and Deputy Commissioner C Satyabhama. Their collective efforts reflect the importance of a unified approach in addressing the issues facing construction workers in the region. By addressing both immediate financial needs and long-term structural reforms, the government’s actions are paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable working environment for the people of Hassan. The Rs 38 crore financial aid is a significant step forward in improving the lives of construction workers in Hassan. Through careful planning, rigorous enforcement of labour laws, and a focus on local employment, Minister Lad’s directives are helping to ensure that workers receive the respect, protection, and financial support they deserve. As these efforts continue, the future for Hassan’s labour force looks more secure and prosperous.
