Labour Ministry Urges EPFO to Enhance IT Infrastructure for ELI Scheme Launch

The Labour Ministry has directed the Employees Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) to enhance its IT infrastructure and capacity in preparation for the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme. This initiative is part of a broader government effort to boost employment, as announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Union Budget. The ELI Scheme aims to generate over 2 crore jobs within two years, significantly improving employment prospects.

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Focus on IT Infrastructure and Capacity Building

During a review meeting led by Labour Secretary Sumita Dawra, the EPFO was instructed to prioritise preparations for the ELI Scheme. This includes enhancing IT systems and capacity building. The EPFO is also expected to present various key aspects at the Central Board of Trustees meeting scheduled for November 30, 2024. These efforts are part of a larger strategy to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

Review and Resolution of Pending Cases

The ministry, alongside the Chief Labour Commissioner Central, continues to address pending industrial disputes and claims. Efforts include timely onboarding of inspection reports on the Shram Suvidha Portal and reviewing inspection formats. Additionally, reforms in the Central Government Industrial Tribunal-cum-Labour Courts (CGITs) through e-courts are being emphasised to expedite case resolutions.

Training and Development Initiatives

Training institutes like VV Giri National Labour Institute (VVGNLI) and Dattopant Thengadi National Board for Workers Education and Development (DTNBWED) have been tasked with reviewing and updating training modules. This aims to align them with current labour welfare needs. The Capacity Building Commission will be consulted to ensure these modules meet contemporary requirements.

Labour Bureau Surveys and Employment Services

The Labour Bureau's work on finalising surveys such as the All India Quarterly Establishment-based Employment Survey (AQEES) was discussed. Enhancements to the National Career Service (NCS) portal were also highlighted, including integrating services for differently-abled individuals with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

ESIC Priorities and Healthcare Initiatives

The Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has been urged to focus on constructing new medical colleges, procurement, HR tasks, and improving audit cells. Enhancements in ESIC and ESIS Hospitals are also a priority. Discussions included linking ESIC with Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) to strengthen healthcare services.

Improving social security for workers, especially unorganised ones, is crucial for enhancing their health and productivity. This includes better access to healthcare, retirement benefits, pensions, and government schemes. Such measures contribute significantly to nation-building efforts under the Viksit Bharat initiative.