Argus News - Dharmendra Pradhan Calls Labour Welfare Nation’s Backbone

Puri, Feb 7: Addressing the 21st National Conference of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) in Puri on Saturday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan described labour welfare as a “responsible intellectual movement” towards nation-building.

Highlighting the BMS’ commitment to upholding the dignity of labour in line with the ideals of the Indian Constitution, Union Minister Pradhan stressed that workers are the cornerstone of India’s development.

“The BMS has always been committed to upholding the dignity of labour in line with the ideals of the Indian Constitution. Since its inception, the organization has worked with the vision of national interest, labour welfare, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, playing a commendable role in strengthening workers’ rights, dignity, and social justice,” said the Union Education Minister.

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“Providing a respectful life to the workforce will double the nation’s economic growth. In this regard, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has increased the minimum wage for workers after many years. The government is also continuously working for the welfare of 25 lakh midday meal assistants, Anganwadi workers, and ASHA workers,” noted Dharmendra.

Recalling his early association with BMS as a grassroots worker, the Union Minister called that journey a privilege. “The BMS has taken the form of a responsible social movement. This organization considers labour not merely as a means of livelihood, but as the cornerstone of nation-building, paving the way for balanced and inclusive growth,” opined Pradhan.

He highlighted India’s demographic strength, saying nearly 900 million people fall within the working-age group, of which about 500 million are actively engaged in work. Increasing workforce participation from 50% to 75% is essential to achieve the goal of a developed India in the era of Artificial Intelligence, he stressed.

Looking ahead, Dharmendra Pradhan underscored the importance of continuous skilling, re-skilling, and up-skilling of the workforce. “Aiming to prepare India’s workforce to meet global standards while contributing to global welfare, the new National Education Policy integrates learning with earning,” the Union Education Minister pointed out.