Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also serves as Chairman of the J&K Building & Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board (JKBOCWWB), has sanctioned ₹30.14 crore for direct online transfer to eligible beneficiaries under various welfare schemes of the board. This decision comes as part of continuous efforts to support vulnerable labourers in the region.
Officials confirmed that the sanctioned amount will reach all Assistant Labour Commissioners for immediate transfer into the bank accounts of registered construction workers. This swift action ensures that those in need will receive assistance without unnecessary delays.
According to the Labour Department, the assistance covers a range of flagship welfare schemes aimed at construction workers. These include:
- Education support
- Disability assistance
- Aid for chronic illness
- Support for next of kin of deceased workers
- Marriage assistance
- Meritorious awards for children of registered workers
During the 22nd meeting of the JKBOCWWB held in July, Omar Abdullah had emphasised the need for a broader and more inclusive definition of ‘construction worker’. This expansion aims to ensure that all vulnerable labourers in the unorganised sector benefit from various welfare measures.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to exploring innovative policy mechanisms that will expand coverage, ensure financial security for workers, and align the Board’s operations with national best practices in labour welfare. The Chief Minister remarked, “Construction workers are the backbone of our infrastructure development and deserve comprehensive and timely support.”
Omar Abdullah also reassured that his government stands unwavering in its mission to safeguard labour rights and dignity in Jammu and Kashmir. This financial aid is vital not only as a relief measure but also as an affirmation of the state’s commitment to its working class.
In a related development, the Chief Minister expressed profound sorrow over a tragic bus accident involving Indian Umrah pilgrims in Medina, Saudi Arabia, that occurred early this morning.
In his statement, Abdullah conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the incident. Initial reports indicate that a bus carrying 46 Indian pilgrims collided with a tanker while travelling from Mecca to Medina, resulting in the unfortunate death of 45 pilgrims. The incident left only one survivor with serious injuries, prompting shock and grief across the nation.
The Chief Minister and other officials are closely monitoring the situation, reaffirming their support for the affected families and initiating communication with relevant authorities in Saudi Arabia to provide assistance in this hour of need.
