Modi launches key labour reforms, promises better work culture

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday unveiled some key labour reforms that rely on trust and promote the ease of doing business, and said the measures will go a long way in changing India's work culture and promoting social security.

The prime minister also unveiled the Shram Suvidha portal, a Labour Inspection Scheme, as also the portability of social security through a Universal Account Number for Employees Provident Fund at an event in Vigyan Bhavan conference complex here.

"How to change the work culture? These efforts are a great example," said Modi amid applause. "This is Minimum Government Maximum Governance." The prime minister said: "E-governance is easy governance. It builds trust for transparency."

Modi said the government must also trust its citizens and other stakeholders and that a big step has been taken in this direction Thursday by allowing the self-certification of documents.

On the Inspector Raj regime, he said, a computer will now determine where an inspection will be carried out the next day. He also said the number of forms that companies have to fill on labour-related issues has been reduced from as many as 16 to just one now.

"The Shram Suvidha portal simplifies compliance of 16 labour laws with on online form," he said, adding this form can be filed online.

On the issue of social security of labour force, the Prime Minister expressed concern that as much as Rs.27,000 crore was lying unclaimed with the Employees Provident Fund Organisation.

"This money belongs to poor workers of India," he said, adding the portability provided under the Employees Provident Fund through one universal account number will put an end to such large sums of money being locked up and not reaching the intended beneficiary.

The prime minister said the "Shramev Jayate" initiatives were essential elements of the "Make in India" vision, paving the way for skill development of youth in a big way, and creating opportunities for India to meet the global requirement of skilled labour.

Modi also unveiled a booklet on National Brand Ambassadors for Vocational Training and a souvenir for All India Skill Competitions.