“Shramik is Nation’s Vishwakarma”: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Emphasizes Workers’ Pivotal Role in Nation-Building

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurated the newly constructed 100-bedded Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Hospital at Doddaballapur, Karnataka, and remotely laid the foundation stone for a 100-bedded ESIC Hospital at Bellary, Karnataka, from Doddaballapur yesterday. Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, the Minister of State for Ministry of Labour and Employment and Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Shri K. Sudhakar, Member of the Lok Sabha and Shri Dheeraj Muniraj, Member of Legislative Assembly, Doddaballapur were also present during the event.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized that access to quality healthcare is an integral part of social security for workers. He stated that “Shramik is the true builder of the nation and is our Vishwakarma. It is our responsibility to ensure all necessary arrangements for their welfare.” He further noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, dignity and empowerment of workers is central to governance and national development.

Dr. Mandaviya underscored the significant expansion of ESIC coverage over the past decade. The number of insured persons under social security has doubled from about 2 crore to 4 crore, he emphasised. “More than 40 crore workers in the country are now covered under various social security schemes, reflecting a substantial rise from 19% coverage in 2015 to over 64% today, as noted by the International Labour Organisation (ILO),” he added.

Speaking on labour reforms, the Union Minister noted that the implementation of the four Labour Codes ensures transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Mandatory appointment letters have been introduced, equal wages for men and women are ensured, and workers in hazardous occupations are now guaranteed ESIC coverage, he elaborated. Dr. Mandaviya further informed that 20 ESIC medical colleges have been established to make medical education accessible to workers’ families. With 40–50% of seats reserved for children of insured persons, these institutions are opening new avenues and opportunities for the workers and their families.