District-Level Awareness Programme on Labour Laws on the eve of International Labour Day
Soreng, May 1:
The Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Welfare Board, Government of Sikkim, successfully organized a district-level awareness programme on the eve of International Labour Day 2026 at the Rurban Complex, Soreng.
The programme was graced by Shri S.B. Subba, Advisor, IPR Department, Government of Sikkim, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Rudra Khatiwara, President, State-Level Labour Wing, as the Guest of Honour.
The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries including officials from the R&B Department (DEs, AEs, and JEs) of Daramdin, Soreng, and Kaluk sub-divisions, Project Directors and in-charges of major ongoing infrastructure projects, representatives from Nagar Panchayat, OSDs to HMLA Daramdin constituency, OSD R&B, contractors,president ex army welfare association, Panchayat Inspectors, and officials from IPR and Power Departments.
Around 300 workers including registered BOCW and other labourers participated in the programme.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial offering of floral bouquets to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour,other dignitaries and the workers.
Highlighting the importance of labour welfare, Shri Prakash Chandra Subba, Assistant Labour Commissioner, delivered an awareness session on various labour laws, including the BOCW Act, 1996. He elaborated on welfare schemes, safety measures, and social security provisions available to workers. He also narrated the inspiring story of Dashrath Manjhi to motivate workers and reinforce the dignity of labour.
In his address, Shri Rudra Khatiwara emphasized the worker-friendly initiatives and welfare measures undertaken by the present government for the upliftment of labourers.
The Chief Guest, Shri S.B. Subba, in his motivating speech, shared his personal experiences of working during his early life and highlighted the importance of perseverance and hard work. He also spoke about the government’s commitment towards addressing the issues faced by workers.
The programme also featured cultural performances including group songs, a solo song, and a dance presented by the staff of the Labour Department, Soreng.
The event was anchored by Shri Yogendra Chettri, Inspector, with a welcome address by Shri Ruben Rai and a vote of thanks proposed by Shri Mang Hang Subba, Inspector.
A cake-cutting ceremony was held to commemorate the occasion and honour the contribution of workers. Tea, snacks, and lunch were served to all attendees.
The programme concluded successfully with active participation and reaffirmed the commitment towards creating awareness on labour rights and ensuring the welfare and dignity of workers.
