NEWS

International Labour Day: Advocating for the Backbone of India's Economy
Given International Labour Day, May 01, Father Francis Bosco, Director of Don Bosco for Migrants (DB4M), brings attention to the invaluable contributions of unorganized workers in India and calls for urgent action to protect their dignity and rights. Bosco emphasizes that India's economy relies heavily on the hard work of migrant and informal workers, who often remain invisible despite their critical role in shaping the nation's progress.
"In India, the backbone of our economy is built by the hard work of migrant and informal workers—agricultural workers, domestic workers, fishermen, salt pan workers, transport workers, quarry workers, palm tree climbers, sanitation workers, textile workers, match industry workers, construction workers, cracker industry workers, tailors, weavers, street vendors, washer men, saloon workers, footwear makers, gig workers, cooks, minor forest produce collectors, and many more," said Bosco. "Their contributions deserve recognition, protection, and justice."
This year, the International Labour Day focuses on advocating for unorganized workers' rights, well-being, and dignity. DB4M, along with labour movements, NGOs, and trade unions, has put forth key demands, including:
• Inclusion of migrant and informal workers under social security schemes like ESI.
• State or national implementation of minimum wage standards for informal sectors.
• Formal recognition and registration of workers under labour laws.
• Provision of safe and dignified working conditions.
• Enhanced education and welfare support for workers' families.
Bosco urges communities and individuals to stand in solidarity with migrant and informal workers, adding, "Let this Labour Day be a turning point. It is a day to celebrate workers and a call to ensure justice and systemic change. Together, we can build an India where every worker is valued and protected."
DB4M encourages advocacy for these workers' rights at Grama Sabha meetings across villages in India, with proposals to be presented to District Collectors for immediate action. The organization believes that mobilizing collective action will pave the way for a future where unorganized workers enjoy fairness, safety, and respect.