The Press Information Bureau (PIB), Kolkata, organised ‘Vartalap’, an interactive session with media professionals, on Saturday in Siliguri to “strengthen the media-government interface.”
Speaking at the one-day workshop, Darjeeling MP Raju Bista said the new labour law is welfare-oriented and beneficial for workers across the country. He explained that, to simplify and strengthen the framework governing workers’ rights, the central government has consolidated 29 labour laws into four comprehensive labour codes—the code on wages (2019), the industrial relations code (2020), the code on social security (2020), and the occupational safety, health and working conditions code (2020).
Calling the labour codes a historic reform, Mr Bista said they ensure workers have easier access to security, dignity, health, and welfare measures, reinforcing India’s commitment to a fair and future-ready labour ecosystem. The reforms protect both organised and unorganised workers nationwide.
He highlighted several key provisions of the new laws, including mandatory appointment letters, gratuity benefits, free annual health check-ups, and wider inclusion under the ESI scheme.
“These measures will greatly benefit tea garden workers, MSMEs, and unorganised labourers in the Darjeeling hills and the Dooars,” he said.
Mr Bista appreciated PIB Kolkata for consistently engaging with media professionals through knowledge-sharing platforms like Vartalap. He emphasised that transparent communication is essential in a democracy, adding that informed citizens form the backbone of a progressive nation.
Delivering the welcome address, Jane Namchu, Additional Director General, PIB/CBC Kolkata, greeted the dignitaries and media professionals. She emphasised the vital role of the media in bridging the gap between the government and the public, urging journalists to use the PIB website as a credible source of authentic information. TVK Reddy, Director General, PIB/CBC Eastern Region, highlighted the government’s continued focus on environmental sustainability and public participation in greening initiatives.