Sarbananda Sonowal Attends Shramik Kalyan Divas Programme in Dibrugarh
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, participated in the Shramik Kalyan Divas event at Dinjoy field in Chabua, Dibrugarh district. The programme was organised to mark the birth anniversary of tea worker leader Santosh Kumar Tapno.
Recognition of Contributions in Tea Garden Areas
The event included acknowledgements for individuals and organisations contributing to education, healthcare, welfare, and infrastructure development in tea garden regions. Shri Sonowal presented awards and distributed financial assistance cheques to beneficiaries under the Assam Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board.
The Minister introduced free CSC-enabled registration, renewal, and onboarding services under the Nirman Sakhi initiative to support workers in accessing welfare measures.
Tribute to Santosh Kumar Tapno
Shri Sonowal paid tribute to Santosh Kumar Tapno, describing him as a social reformer and labour leader devoted to the uplift of the tea tribes and Adivasi communities.
He stated that honouring workers is essential for a strong society and emphasised the importance of respect and recognition for the workforce.
Remarks on Workers’ Welfare and Governance
Shri Sonowal said that changes in workers’ welfare began after Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office, leading to what he described as a shift driven by policy and inclusive governance.
He stated that workers from tea gardens, factories, construction, and agriculture sectors have received economic and social security through schemes providing housing, healthcare, education, banking access, and livelihood support.
India’s Economic Growth and Workers’ Role
The Minister highlighted India’s position as the fourth-largest global economy and noted that workers are contributing in manufacturing sectors such as shipbuilding and defence.
He said that the country’s economic confidence is linked to the leadership and vision of the Prime Minister.
Welfare Measures for Tea Workers
Shri Sonowal mentioned that more than 7.5 lakh tea workers in Assam have bank accounts under the PM Jan Dhan Yojana. He referred to the state initiative Eti Koli Duti Paat, under which tea garden workers receive ₹5,000 directly in their bank accounts.
He also referred to improvements in roads, electricity, healthcare, education, drinking water access, and maternity care in tea garden zones.
Call for Innovation in the Tea Industry
Shri Sonowal encouraged tea companies to adopt diversified and value-added products to enhance their global competitiveness and broaden economic opportunities for the community.
Connection with Tea Tribes and Adivasi Community
The Minister expressed emotional connection with the tea tribes and Adivasi communities, recalling his childhood experiences in the region.
He stated the importance of recognising the significance of the day and reaffirmed the commitment to the comprehensive development of workers.