Workers’ Welfare is Government’s Priority: Minister Dr. G. Vivek Venkatswamy
Will Continue to Raise Workers’ Issues in Parliament: MP Gaddam Vamsi Krishna
Hyderabad, May 1: Labour and Mines Minister G. Vivek Venkatswamy reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring their welfare on the occasion of International Workers’ Day.
The Minister recalled that in the past, workers faced severe hardships such as lack of basic rights, long working hours, and absence of minimum wages. He noted that earlier leaders fought relentlessly to secure justice for labourers who were subjected to exploitation. Referring to his father, former Union Minister Kaka Venkat Swamy, he said that large-scale labour movements were witnessed during his tenure as Labour Minister. He added that today, there is a positive shift, with managements and workers moving forward in a more cooperative environment.
Dr. Vivek Venkatswamy emphasized that achieving the target of a $3 trillion economy by 2047 requires collective effort, particularly through skill development initiatives for workers. He stated that nearly 20,000 youth are being trained through 120 Advanced Technology Centres (ATCs) across the state, with special opportunities extended to children of workers. He also highlighted the introduction of agriculture-related courses aimed at boosting productivity.
The Minister revealed that ₹90 crore has been allocated to the Labour Department in the state budget by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. Through Telangana Overseas Manpower Company Limited, youth are being trained and provided employment opportunities in countries like Germany. He also announced that the insurance coverage for construction workers has been enhanced from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh, and assured welfare measures for hamalis (head-load workers).
He further stated that, inspired by the vision of Rahul Gandhi, the Telangana government has introduced a special law to provide legal protection to gig and platform-based workers. He added that improved medical services are being delivered to workers through Employees’ State Insurance Corporation, with efforts underway to expand these services further.
Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Minister Jupally emphasized that workers play a crucial role in nation-building and deserve utmost respect. He stressed that dignity should not be determined by the nature of one’s job and called for treating workers as part of the family. He remarked that laws alone are not enough and that a broader humanitarian outlook is needed across society and institutions.
He also suggested that funds allocated to the Labour Department should effectively reach all eligible workers from the grassroots to the state level. Jupally expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and the Labour Minister for introducing a special bill aimed at the welfare of gig workers.
Peddapalli MP Gaddam Vamsi Krishna, addressing the gathering, recalled that B. R. Ambedkar gave significant importance to workers’ rights in the Constitution. He noted that Ambedkar’s advocacy of the 8-hour workday continues to guide society even today. He also remembered the contributions of Kaka Venkataswamy, particularly for Singareni workers.
Highlighting current challenges, the MP said that with employment opportunities becoming more competitive, the government is focusing on skill development through modern, technology-driven ATCs to improve employability. He added that 120 ATCs across the state are expected to create significant employment opportunities. He assured that he would continue to raise workers’ issues in Parliament.
Labour Department Secretary Dasari Harichandana, Labour Commissioner Pamela Satpathy, labour leaders, and a large number of workers participated in the programme.
