Lucknow: In observance of International Workers’ Day on May 1, a series of welfare-oriented programs will be organized across all districts of Uttar Pradesh, as per directives from the state government. These include labour registration camps, free medical check-ups, distribution of welfare benefits, and felicitation of individuals and institutions working for the welfare of workers.
Sharing details about the celebrations, Dr. M.K. Shanmuga Sundaram, Principal Secretary, Labour and Employment, said that the day is commemorated annually to honour workers, protect their rights, and promote their socio-economic empowerment. This year, the International Labour Organization (ILO) is focusing on the impact of digitalization and artificial intelligence on worker safety and health at workplaces.
Highlighting the significance of May Day, Dr. Sundaram stated that the day is a symbol of continuous efforts towards improving working conditions, enhancing skills, and ensuring overall well-being of workers.
As part of the state’s observance:
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The Labour and Employment Minister will inaugurate a major labour registration camp in Varanasi.
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Similar inaugural camps will be conducted at divisional and district levels by Divisional Commissioners and District Magistrates.
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A seminar and workshop will be organized in Kanpur and Lucknow by the Labour Commissioner’s office and the UP Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, with participation from legislators, trade union leaders, employer associations, UNICEF, ILO representatives, and other key stakeholders.
Dr. Sundaram added that NGOs, exemplary workers, and supportive employers will be honoured during these events. The government will also organize distribution programs for beneficiaries of various central and state welfare schemes aimed at labourers.
To ensure maximum outreach, mass awareness campaigns will be conducted at division, district, municipal, tehsil, and block levels to spread information about welfare schemes. Public representatives will be invited to chair these events, which will also feature panel discussions on labour laws and policies to enhance worker awareness.
In collaboration with District Legal Services Authorities, legal awareness camps will also be held. Students from labour families who have shown exceptional academic performance will be invited along with their parents and felicitated to serve as role models for others.
Furthermore, the government will coordinate with employer associations to organize awareness programs within factories and commercial establishments, with a focus on workplace safety and health standards.
With support from district administrations, a range of services will be offered including:
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Free health check-ups
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Blood donation camps
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Mental health counselling
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Free distribution of medicines
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Cultural events
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Career counselling sessions for labourers’ children
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Admission of interested youth in skill development programs
Dr. Sundaram has also urged employers to voluntarily grant paid leave to their workers on the occasion of International Workers’ Day, as a gesture of appreciation and respect.
