Budget: Formal roadmap for informal sector

NEW DELHI: With the pandemic putting the spotlight on migrant workers, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said the One Nation One Ration Card plan, which allows migrant beneficiaries to claim rations anywhere in the country, will be integrated fully as remaining states come on board in the next few months.

At present, the scheme is being implemented by 32 states and UTs and has reached around 69 crore beneficiaries, accounting for about 86% of the scheme's target.

Sitharaman also reiterated the government's commitment to conducting a proper enumeration of unorganised sector workers. She announced the launch of a portal to collect information on gig, building, and construction workers, which in turn will help formulate the Centre's policies on health, housing, skill, insurance, credit, and food schemes for migrant workers.

With the implementation of the four labour codes expected in the next fiscal, Sitharaman stressed on 'Atmanirbharta' while listing the government's measures to offer inclusive governance and said minimum wages and coverage under the Employees State Insurance Corporation would be extended to all categgory of workers. The FM said the existing National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme will be realigned to provide post-education apprenticeship, and training of graduates and diploma holders in engineering.


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