Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also serves as Chairman of the J&K Building & Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board (JKBOCWWB), has sanctioned and released ₹30.14 crore for direct online transfer to eligible beneficiaries under various welfare schemes. This initiative is aimed at uplifting construction workers in Jammu and Kashmir amid ongoing challenges facing the labour community.
Officials confirmed that the sanctioned amount would go to all Assistant Labour Commissioners for immediate transfer into the bank accounts of registered construction workers. This timely intervention aims to ensure that welfare measures reach those who need them the most without delay.
According to the Labour Department, the assistance covers a range of flagship welfare schemes, including:
- 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 JKBOCWWB held in July, Chief Minister Abdullah emphasised the need for a broader and more inclusive definition of ‘construction worker’. His vision seeks to ensure that all vulnerable labourers in the unorganised sector can benefit from government welfare measures. This aligns well with the ongoing efforts to redefine labour categories for better protection and inclusion.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to exploring innovative policy mechanisms, aiming to expand coverage, ensure financial security for workers, and align the Board’s operations with national best practices in labour welfare. “Construction workers are the backbone of our infrastructure development and deserve comprehensive and timely support,” the Chief Minister stated, reaffirming his government’s dedication to safeguarding labour rights and dignity.
Meanwhile, in a contrasting tone, the Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over a tragic accident involving a bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims in Medina, Saudi Arabia, early this morning. Abdullah conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in this heartbreaking incident.
Initial reports indicate that a bus, transporting 46 Indian pilgrims, collided with a tanker while travelling from Mecca to Medina. The collision tragically resulted in the death of 45 pilgrims, leaving only one survivor who is currently in serious condition at a local hospital.
This accident has drawn attention to the safety protocols surrounding pilgrimage travel, raising concerns among families and communities in India regarding the security of their loved ones abroad. The Indian Government may need to review and enhance safety measures for pilgrims travelling to religious sites to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the state mourns the loss of lives in this unfortunate incident, CM Omar Abdullah’s initiatives on welfare reflect a commitment not only to construction workers but also to the overall well-being of all citizens. The deaths of the pilgrims weigh heavily on the community, prompting discussions about how to better support families affected by such unexpected tragedies.
