Chennai, On August 15, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K.Stalin made a significant announcement in his Independence Day speech. He declared the establishment of a separate welfare board to safeguard the welfare of food delivery and service workers.
Recognizing the importance of this sector and the challenges faced by those engaged in food delivery and service work for internet service companies, known as ‘Gig’, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin took this step to protect the overall welfare of these unorganized workers. This move has been widely appreciated by the workers, who personally met Stalin today to express their gratitude.
The Chief Minister’s decision was backed by Labor Welfare and Skill Development Minister C.V.Ganesan, Chief Secretary Sivdas Meena, and Principal Secretary/Labor Commissioner Atul Ananda, who all participated in the program. Their presence underlines the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns and needs of this marginalized workforce.
The establishment of the welfare board for food delivery and service workers is a significant step in ensuring their rights, protections, and overall welfare. It is expected to provide a platform for addressing grievances and concerns, as well as creating avenues for skill development and training.
With the rapid growth of the gig economy and the increasing dependence on food delivery and service work, it is crucial to have mechanisms in place that prioritize the interests of these workers. The welfare board will play a pivotal role in setting standards, ensuring fair wages, and improving working conditions for this vital sector.
This decision by the Tamil Nadu government is not only a recognition of the invaluable contribution made by food delivery and service workers but also a testament to their growing prominence in the state’s economy. By prioritizing their welfare, the government is sending a strong message about its commitment to inclusive growth and social justice.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s announcement has been widely welcomed by labor unions and organizations advocating for workers’ rights. It is seen as a progressive step towards ensuring the dignity, well-being, and protection of the food delivery and service workers in Tamil Nadu.
As the welfare board takes shape, it is hoped that it will effectively address the concerns of the workers and serve as a model for other states to follow. This significant development has set a precedent in recognizing and safeguarding the rights of gig economy workers, making Tamil Nadu a leader in labor welfare in the country.