Malkangiri, June 17: Workers of Malkangiri district have been advised not to migrate to other states as bonded or seasonal laborers but instead seek employment within their own district. This, officials said, would accelerate the district’s development and contribute to the overall progress of the state. The Labour Department assured workers that all necessary facilities and benefits would be provided to support them.
Speaking at a labour awareness camp organized in Serpalli Gram Panchayat under Malkangiri Sadar Block, District Labour Officer Purnima Duruka urged workers to remain in the district and take advantage of local employment opportunities.
She stated that the Odisha government is implementing development projects at a rapid pace across Malkangiri through various departments. However, many workers continue to migrate to other states for work, where they often suffer from illnesses, exploitation, and, in some cases, even death. There have also been instances of workers being harassed and deceived by middlemen and labor contractors.
Therefore, she appealed to workers not to leave for other states and instead contribute to the district’s growth by working locally.
Welfare Measures for Workers
The Labour Officer highlighted several welfare initiatives undertaken by the Labour Department over the past year:
427 beneficiaries received educational assistance for their children, amounting to ₹34,98,800.
148 beneficiaries received ₹3.96 crore as death compensation assistance.
139 beneficiaries received ₹6.95 lakh for funeral assistance.
62 beneficiaries received ₹31 lakh as marriage assistance.
80 beneficiaries received ₹8 lakh as maternity assistance.
At present, 78,247 workers have been registered in the district.
Assistance Provided During the Current Financial Year
From April this year until now:
188 beneficiaries received educational assistance worth ₹16,99,600 for their children’s education.
49 beneficiaries received ₹1.35 crore as death compensation assistance.
45 beneficiaries received ₹2.22 lakh for funeral assistance.
33 beneficiaries received ₹16.50 lakh as marriage assistance.
18 beneficiaries received ₹1.80 lakh as maternity assistance.
Ms. Duruka also informed that 79 new workers have been registered during the current year.
She further emphasized that elected representatives at the Panchayat, Block, and District levels have a crucial role in creating awareness among workers about their rights, welfare schemes, and the risks associated with unsafe migration to other states.
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