“Workers are the backbone of our economy,” says Ajay Kumar Sadhotra; “Dignity of labour is our core principle,” asserts Rattan Lal Gupta
DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, May 1
Senior leader of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday asserted that protecting labourers/ workers’ rights remains the cornerstone of the Omar led government.
He made these remarks while addressing a massive gathering on the occasion of International Labour Day (May Day) at the party’s provincial headquarter, Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan, Jammu. The function was chaired by Thakur Nar Singh, President of the State Central labour union wing, while Additional General Secretary Ajay Sadhotra and Provincial President (Jammu) Rattan Lal Gupta attended as guests of honour. In his address, Choudhary, the chief guest on the occasion, emphasized that the government is prioritizing the welfare of labourers and the working class through a combination of legislative measures and policy initiatives. He noted that special focus is being given to both organised and unorganized labourers/ workers.
Highlighting key initiatives, he said the government has taken up the regularisation of over 60,000 daily wagers as a priority. He further stated that more than 30,000 vacant government posts are being filled through the Public Service Commission (PSC) and Services Selection Board (SSB) to ensure a transparent recruitment process.
To boost employment, Choudhary added that the government is actively promoting private sector job creation through skill development programmes and startup initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment. He also informed that a high-powered committee, headed by the Chief Secretary, has been constituted to devise a phased and transparent roadmap for the regularisation of daily wagers, casual labourers, and seasonal workers.
Additionally, he noted that over ?30 crore has been sanctioned for construction workers, covering assistance for education, chronic illnesses, and disability. The Cabinet has also approved a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees, effective from July 2025.
Ajay Kumar Sadhotra described workers as the backbone of the region’s economy and progress, praising their dedication, resilience, and sacrifices.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and livelihoods of fixed-income groups, daily wage earners, and artisans.
Speaking on the occasion, Rattan Lal Gupta highlighted the National Conference’s long-standing commitment to the dignity of labour. He recalled that the party’s historical manifesto advocated equal wages for women in industries, the right to choose any profession, and protection from unsuitable heavy labour.
