Rs 2.91 cr distributed among 667 construction workers

In the past year, 667 construction workers in Chamba district have received financial benefits totaling Rs 2.91 crore under various schemes managed by the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board. The board, through 13 welfare schemes, offers financial aid for different needs to registered workers. These schemes are implemented through the offices of the District Labour Welfare Officer in Chamba and its sub-office in Dalhousie.

As of now, 34,811 workers are registered in Chamba district, with 33,633 under the Chamba office and 1,178 in Dalhousie. Between April 2023 and August 2024, 683 new workers were registered, and 667 workers received benefits, with a total expenditure of Rs. 2.9 crore.

Among the beneficiaries, 395 workers received Rs 2.01 crore for marriage expenses, 202 received Rs. 56.05 lakh for education, and 8 workers received Rs. 19.6 lakh for death and funeral expenses. Additionally, 57 workers received Rs. 12.16 lakh for maternity/paternity benefits, three received Rs 1.31 lakh for medical assistance and two received Rs 32,000 for hostel facilities for their children.

In total, 22,080 workers have benefited from various schemes provided by the board. These include 1,464 workers receiving financial aid for education and 1,331 for marriages. Maternity benefits have been granted to 123 workers, paternity benefits to 31, and 35 workers have received aid for death and funeral expenses. Other benefits provided include kerosene, bicycles, and medical assistance. The Board also distributed induction heaters, bicycles, solar lamps, and washing machines to workers. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Rs 2,000 each was given to 13,993 workers.

Workers involved in construction for at least 90 days in the past 12 months, and aged between 18 and 60 years, can register with the Board. Registration requires submission of necessary documents, and it can be done through the Board’s website at https://bocw.hp.nic.in.