Commemorating the Labour Day observance, Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today described the working class as the backbone of the economy. He reiterated the government’s firm commitment to ensure their economic welfare and social security across Jammu and Kashmir.

In his message, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that workers are the driving force behind development and progress. The government remains steadfast in safeguarding their rights through effective implementation of labour laws and welfare schemes.

“Our workers are the foundation of economic growth. The government is committed towards ensuring safe working conditions, fair wages, social security and dignity of labour for every worker across the Union Territory,” he said.

Highlighting the key labour reforms, the Deputy Chief Minister referred to the introduction of reforms as comprehensive frameworks covering wages, industrial relations, occupational safety and social security.

Describing these as landmark reforms, he said, “The new Labour Codes simplify the compliance while strengthening the protection and welfare of workers. They aim to ensure universal minimum wages, improved workplace safety, enhanced social security and robust mechanisms for dispute resolution.”

“The Labour Department is actively working towards effective implementation of these reforms in Jammu and Kashmir to build a fair, transparent and worker-friendly labour ecosystem,” he added.

Stressing the importance of awareness and outreach, the Deputy Chief Minister called for extensive campaigns to ensure registration of all eligible workers so they can benefit from various Central and UT-level welfare schemes.

“Maximum outreach of labour welfare schemes is essential to strengthen the economic security and improve the living standards of workers,” he said.