Over 50 lakh unorganised workers, including those from the Beedi, Cine, and Mining sectors, are directly benefiting from a wide range of labour welfare schemes run by the Ministry of Labour & Employment. These schemes, implemented through the Directorate General of Labour Welfare (DGLW), aim to provide education support, healthcare access, and housing benefits to some of the most underserved sections of India’s workforce.
With a network of 18 Welfare Commissioners, the Labour Welfare Organisation (LWO) ensures grassroots implementation of welfare initiatives across states. These programs are focused on extending social protection, health services, financial aid, and housing dignity to workers in remote and economically weaker areas.
Education Scholarships
One of the flagship schemes is the Education Assistance Scheme, offering annual scholarships ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹25,000 to the children of Beedi, Cine, and non-coal mine workers. These scholarships are processed through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) with Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring transparency and timely support to over 1 lakh applicants every year.
🏥 Health Benefits
Under the Health Scheme, beneficiaries have access to outpatient services through LWO dispensaries and reimbursement for critical illnesses like heart disease, kidney transplants, cancer, TB, and minor surgeries. Financial assistance ranges from ₹30,000 for minor surgeries to ₹7.5 lakh for cancer treatment.
🏠 Housing Support
Although the Revised Integrated Housing Scheme (RIHS) was sunset in 2016 and later merged with PM Awas Yojana, the government has ensured that pending dues are cleared for eligible beneficiaries till March 31, 2024.
These schemes reflect the Centre’s commitment to inclusive growth, highlighting its motto of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”. As the Modi government completes 11 years of labour welfare reforms, the ministry reiterated its resolve to build a more accessible, tech-driven, and outcome-focused welfare ecosystem in the years ahead.
