New Delhi, Aug 22 (KNN)  The Central Advisory Committee on Beedi Workers Welfare Fund has recommended that the cess-exemption limit for beedi-manufacturers be reduced to five lakh beedis from the present turnover level of 20 lakh beedis.

The Union Minister of Labour and Employment, Steel and Mines, Narendra Singh Tomar chaired the 28th meeting of the Central Advisory Committee on Beedi Workers Welfare Fund which met here yesterday.

The Central Advisory Committee is an important tripartite forum which advises the central government on matters arising out of the administration of this fund.

The Committee deliberated on and considered various proposals aimed at enhancing the reach and effect of various welfare schemes meant for beedi workers in the country.
 
According to the recommendations made by the committee, a modified housing scheme will be developed, with Rs. 75,000 as proposed contribution from Beedi Workers Welfare fund for each beedi worker, for building a house.

Further, the committee recommended enhancing the rate of welfare cess from the present 5 per cent to 8 per cent; and to enhance the amount of financial assistance under the group insurance scheme.

Apart from this, it was also recommended to earmark 20 per cent of scholarship budget for skill development scheme and sponsorship of beedi workers and their children for training in it and have mandatory wellness check-up for every beedi worker and their dependents.  

Addressing the members, Tomar said, “60 lakh beedi workers spread across the country belong to the poor and down-trodden section of the society and their upliftment is the primary objective of the welfare fund.”

Tomar stressed upon the government’s commitment to the welfare of workers and creation of employment. 

The meeting was attended, inter-alia, by representatives of employers, worker unions and other organizations concerned. (KNN/SD)