Union Minister’s announcement has sparked hope among mine workers nationwide. The new labor codes are set to deliver unprecedented social security, tackling issues that have plagued the sector for decades.
At the heart of the reforms is universal coverage under social security nets. Traditional exclusions for contractual and seasonal miners are history. The codes guarantee provident funds, gratuity, and unemployment allowances, with special provisions for mine-specific risks like silicosis and black lung disease.
The minister outlined phased implementation: starting with large coal and iron ore mines, expanding to limestone and bauxite operations. A corpus fund, contributed by mine owners and the central government, will underwrite pensions and skill upgradation programs. Women miners, often overlooked, gain extended maternity leave and creche facilities at workplaces.
Safety gets equal emphasis. Annual health check-ups, free PPE kits, and insurance up to Rs 10 lakh per worker are now compulsory. Digital dashboards will monitor compliance, flagging violations for immediate action.
Stakeholders react positively but cautiously. Mining associations pledge cooperation, while labor unions push for tripartite dialogues involving workers. Historical data shows mining accidents claim over 100 lives yearly; these codes aim to halve that through prevention. As global demand for Indian minerals surges, prioritizing human capital ensures sustainable growth. The minister concluded optimistically: ‘Secure workers build strong nations.’