Punjab News : Govt Introduces Key Labour Welfare Reforms for Workers’ Benefit, Check Details

In a significant move to strengthen labour welfare, the Punjab government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Labour Minister Tarunpreet Sond, has introduced major reforms aimed at improving the lives of workers across the state. These reforms focus on financial support, accessibility to benefits, and streamlining welfare schemes. 

Punjab Govt. has introduced significant reforms to enhance Labour Welfare under CM @BhagwantMann & Minister @TarunpreetSond-

Major Reforms include-

✅Abolition of 2 year service condition for stipend scheme—workers can now avail benefits from Day 1.
✅ ₹2 crore allocated… pic.twitter.com/yMhCJvFLUe

— AAP Punjab (@AAPPunjab) February 7, 2025

Key Reforms for Workers

The new measures include:

✅ Immediate access to the stipend scheme – Earlier, workers had to complete two years of service to be eligible for stipends. This condition has now been removed, allowing workers to avail benefits from Day 1.

✅ ₹2 crore allocated for awareness and worksite camps – The government has set aside ₹2 crore to organize awareness drives and camps at various workplaces, ensuring workers are informed about their rights and entitlements.

✅ Simplified Shagun Scheme – The Shagun Scheme, which provides financial assistance for the marriage of daughters of registered workers, has been made more accessible. Now, a registered marriage certificate is no longer required, making it easier for workers to receive financial aid without bureaucratic hurdles.

✅ Regular Labour Welfare Board meetings and increased fund contributions – The Labour Welfare Board will now hold meetings more frequently, ensuring better policy decisions for worker benefits. Additionally, labour welfare fund contributions will be increased from April 1, 2025, further strengthening financial assistance programs.

Commitment to Workers’ Rights

The Punjab government has emphasized that these reforms reflect its commitment to enhancing workers' welfare and removing unnecessary conditions that previously delayed benefits. The abolition of the two-year service rule, in particular, is expected to greatly benefit new workers who often struggle financially in the initial period of employment.

By simplifying processes and increasing financial aid, the Punjab government aims to uplift workers, ensuring that they receive immediate and hassle-free support. These measures reinforce the government’s pro-worker approach and its commitment to social welfare.