Seva and Samman for India's Labour Force and Worker Welfare
#GS-2 #GS-3 #GS-4 #Governance & Social Justice #Indian Society #Economy #Ethics #Vulnerable Sections #Employment #Social Security #Labour Reforms #Shram Shakti
Why in News
- The Union Labour Minister highlighted Seva (service) and Samman (respect) for India's workforce as core values of worker welfare.
What It Is
- The concept of Seva and Samman represents an ethical and worker-focused model of governance in India.
- This policy places the health, dignity, welfare, and social security of workers at the center of national development.
- It views Shram Shakti not merely as an economic resource, but as a vital pillar of nation-building.
Key Features
- Dignity of Labour: This approach recognizes and respects every honest worker and their contribution to society.
- Ethics of Care: It addresses workers as human beings with physical and family needs beyond economic production.
- Security for the Vulnerable: Expanding ESIC coverage offers fair healthcare access and social protection to vulnerable groups.
- Reciprocity and Shared Responsibility: Strong cooperation between employers, workers, and the state builds peaceful industrial relations.
Significance
- Social security coverage in India grew from 19% in 2014 to over 64% today, protecting 94 crore people.
- This expansion provides strong safety nets against economic and social risks for millions of working families.
- Focusing on worker welfare boosts productivity, social harmony, and the national vision of Shramev Jayate.
Relevance in Examination Syllabus
- GS Paper II: Covers governance, social justice, human resources, and welfare programs for vulnerable sections.
- GS Paper III: Applies to employment, labor reforms, social security systems, and inclusive economic growth.
- GS Paper IV: Connects with human dignity, compassionate governance, distributive justice, and public service ethics.
- Essay: Useful for essays centered on worker dignity, inclusive growth, and ethical nation-building.