Bhupender Yadav highlights govt initiatives to eliminate discrimination in labour markets

New Delhi: Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Labour and Employment Bhupender Yadav on Thursday drew attention to the government's proactive initiatives aimed at eradicating discrimination in labour markets and fostering social justice.

Speaking at a Panel Discussion during the World of Work Summit organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva, Yadav highlighted the measures implemented under the leadership of the Prime Minister to ensure equality and inclusivity in the workforce.

In his address, the minister focused on key initiatives designed to create a level playing field for all individuals seeking employment. Notably, India has taken significant strides in empowering women by extending paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. This move aims to provide ample time for new mothers to care for their infants without compromising their professional aspirations.

To further support women in the workforce, the government has made it mandatory for establishments with 50 or more employees to provide crèche facilities. This progressive step allows working mothers to balance their responsibilities and pursue their careers while ensuring the well-being of their children.

Yadav also emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing the safety and welfare of women workers. By implementing robust safety measures, women are now permitted to work night shifts, granting them equal access to employment opportunities while prioritizing their protection.

Furthermore, the government is actively working towards extending social security benefits to unorganized workers. Yadav highlighted the e-Shram portal as a pivotal step in this direction. The portal serves as a comprehensive platform to extend social security coverage to all workers, ensuring their access to vital benefits and protections.

During his participation in the 111th International Labour Conference, Yadav engaged in a tripartite interaction with employers and employees associations. This dialogue enabled him to gain valuable insights into the concerns of various stakeholders and apprise them of the government's efforts to promote workers' welfare while facilitating a business-friendly environment.

In addition, the minister attended a BRICS dinner on the sidelines of the conference, underscoring the significance of sharing best practices and experiences among the BRICS nations. He acknowledged the pivotal role that such exchanges play in advancing decent work opportunities and social protection for workers.

Yadav reaffirmed India's support for South Africa's proposal to establish a joint platform for BRICS Productivity Ecosystems as part of the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2025.