UNION LABOUR MINISTER
EPFO’s November 19 meeting to be held in New Delhi: Can EPFO increase minimum EPS pension from Rs 1,000?
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation is gearing up for its 240th Central Board of Trustees assembly, scheduled for November 19, 2026, in New Delhi. However, official confirmation from the government about these proposed changes is still pending, even as calls for enhanced pension benefits persist.
Waste to wealth: Centre earns over Rs 970 crore from disposal of scrap
Inspired by the vision and direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and under the guidance of Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh, the Special Campaign 6 for institutionalising swachhata and minimising pendency in government offices has recorded its highest-ever achievements across key parameters since the commencement of the annual special campaign in 2021, an official statement said.
Welfare pay can't be voter ID-linked
Union panchayati raj minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh announced plans to replace Aadhaar with voter ID numbers for welfare programs. This change would shift the basis for beneficiary identification and payment processing. Critics argue that voter ID is not a universal form of identification and is tied to electoral registration. The proposed switch raises concerns about access for those not on electoral rolls.
American midterm results will not have an impact on India-US interim trade deal: Sources
The Democrats' sweeping victory in the US midterm elections is unlikely to affect the India-US interim trade agreement, as the pact does not require formal Congressional ratification, sources said. However, ongoing Section 301 investigations into forced labour and excess industrial capacity could influence Washington's tariff structure and the finalisation of the agreement.
Voter ID to replace Aadhaar for welfare schemes and benefits? BJP government's plan sparks row
The Centre plans to require voter ID numbers and biometric authentication for welfare benefits. This proposal has sparked criticism from the CPI(M), which claims it could exclude vulnerable individuals from essential government schemes. Critics argue that many rural residents lack access to necessary technology, thereby hindering their ability to receive benefits.
COP31: EU FTA on horizon, but India won't budge on CBAM
India's environment minister Bhupender Yadav reaffirmed the country's opposition to trade-linked barriers at COP31. The upcoming negotiations will focus on the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism affecting various Indian sectors. Participation in carbon markets should remain voluntary, according to Yadav. Additionally, India emphasizes the importance of climate finance from developed nations.
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UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood scraps 15-year settlement wait for migrant care workers earning £25,000
The UK government has revised its immigration settlement rules, particularly for foreign care workers. Eligible care workers can now qualify for permanent residency after five years instead of 15. In addition, changes will extend the standard settlement period for most migrants from five to ten years. Stricter eligibility conditions are also being introduced for all applicants and refugees.
Karnataka seeks Rs 22,400 cr drought relief from Centre, urges early release
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara has requested Rs 22,400.58 crore in drought relief from the Centre. He emphasizes the urgency for the Prime Minister and union ministers to approve the funds. The revised memorandum indicates that 226 taluks suffered from drought, affecting millions of hectares of crops. Parameshwara critiques the insufficient assistance rates and seeks updated data for beneficiaries.
EPFO WhatsApp Service: How to check PF balance, view transaction history and download passbook easily; here's how
The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a convenient WhatsApp service to enhance member access to their provident fund details. This innovation enables users to effortlessly check their EPF balance and examine transaction histories. Additionally, members can obtain their passbook directly via WhatsApp following a verification step. Launched by Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, this initiative aims to simplify service access for all members.
Centre sets up social security board to frame welfare schemes for gig workers
In a significant move, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has initiated the National Social Security Board, designed to improve welfare for unorganised and gig economy workers. This board will advise on the rollout and supervision of important social security programs. Scheduled to meet three times annually, it will also manage policy discussions and oversee the financial aspects of the Social Security Code.
India, EU discuss FTA implementation, customs cooperation and market access in Brussels
India and the European Union engaged in discussions regarding the implementation of their Free Trade Agreement. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held meetings with various senior European Commission officials in Brussels, focusing on market access and customs procedures. The FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on the majority of exports from both regions. Both parties are working towards the proposed signing and full ratification of the agreement.
Mansukh Mandaviya rolls out EPFO services on WhatsApp, starts auto-settlement of small inoperative accounts
Union Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya launched EPFO services through WhatsApp for easier access. Subscribers can check their PF balance and transaction history conveniently using this platform. The automatic settlement for inoperative EPF accounts was also introduced, streamlining the process for beneficiaries. In total, around one lakh accounts will benefit from this initiative. The EPFO's commitment to evolve and focus on worker-centric innovations was emphasized during the celebration.
‘You are not bigger than the Constitution’: Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi, Shah and CEC Gyanesh Kumar at mega INDIA bloc rally
Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally in Delhi, alleging that the BJP has manipulated electoral processes. He claimed that 13.5 crore voters were improperly removed from electoral rolls, affecting the electoral outcomes. Gandhi emphasized that the opposition would take legal steps against Prime Minister Modi and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He criticized the BJP for capturing key institutions and concentrating wealth among a few industrialists.
Gig workers get a seat at the table as Centre notifies social security boards
The Ministry of Labour and Employment has notified the National Social Security Board for unorganised workers and gig workers. This board will enable the implementation of welfare schemes designed to address social security gaps. It will include representatives from government, companies, and civil society to ensure diverse input. The board is expected to meet regularly to discuss policies affecting these workers.
DA hiked by 3% to 63%: Know the impact of hike on salaries of Level 1-10 central government employees
DA hike news: In a significant update for central government employees, a 63% dearness allowance will be implemented for the period of July to December 2026. This marks a 3% rise in the current allowance, providing enhanced financial assistance. Level 1 employees can expect an increase of Rs 540 in their monthly salary.
UK new minimum wage 2027: What will the new rates be, how much more will workers earn, and when does the new minimum wage start?
UK minimum wage 2027: The UK minimum wage will rise by 3.9% in April 2027, taking the hourly rate to £13.21 for workers aged 21 and over and £11.27 for those aged 18 to 20. Here's what to know about the new minimum wage 2027, how much more workers will earn and when the new rates take effect.
What time is UK budget today and where to watch it? Will income tax rise, fuel prices increase and pensioners get relief in John Healey’s big announcement?
When will UK budget be announced? UK Chancellor John Healey will deliver his first Budget today, with the key announcements expected on income tax, fuel duty, pension payments and household energy bills. John Healey is set to deliver his first Budget this afternoon, with the chancellor expected to outline the proposals at approximately 12.30pm.
Only labour unions allowed to protest tomorrow: Emmanuel Macron
Macron acknowledged "planning failings and elements of surprise" last Saturday, when protests drew more than half a million people and degenerated into vandalism. Rioters attacked public buildings and looted stores in cities. Macron blamed seditious acts led by organised ultra-left groups that seek to bring down the republic, alongside acts of delinquency.
First terrorism, then Naxalism, now drugs: By 2029, Amit Shah sets hard deadline to wipe out India’s narcotics menace & Punjab crisis
Union home minister Amit Shah has set December 31, 2029, as the target to make India drug-free, saying the Centre will focus on tackling the narcotics menace after its fight against terrorism and armed Naxalism. Speaking on Police Commemoration Day, Shah also credited security forces for their role in LWE-affected regions. Around 7,000 people from 126 districts affected by left-wing extremism will attend the Ekta Diwas parade in Gujarat on October 31.
Keralam to form special committee with trade union representatives on labour codes; report due in 10 days
Keralam government is forming a special committee that will include trade union representatives to review Labour Codes. This committee will submit recommendations within ten days regarding the state's rules implementation. Chief Minister V D Satheesan emphasized the need for protecting workers' interests during the meeting. All trade unions will be invited to provide their suggestions for amendments to the draft prepared in 2021.
From France to Italy, Belgium and Spain: Housing crisis, rising costs, education fuel wave of protests across Europe
Protests against living costs and housing affordability have escalated across Europe, particularly affecting youth and workers. Countries such as Italy and Belgium have seen violent demonstrations, with numerous arrests reported. Spain is facing a housing crisis, prompting protests ahead of an upcoming election, while Portugal's demonstrations have echoed similar grievances. In France, public unrest began with students but has expanded to broader economic issues.
India’s $100 billion European Free Trade Association cheque is slow to clear as Vietnam joins the club
Vietnam recently signed a free trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association, expanding its trade network. This agreement comes as India's interaction with EFTA continues to evolve, with potential impacts on competition. Both countries aim to enhance exports to these markets despite different timelines of agreement enactment.
France is on fire but something more dangerous burns below the unrest
France is engulfed in protests as the public gives vent to growing anger over soaring expenses and diminishing educational quality. Citizens are voicing their demands for improved services, yet the government grapples with managing an overwhelming public debt. Amid budget cuts proposed by President Macron's administration, increasing political challenges may hinder these efforts.
France’s protests rage as buildings burn, shops are looted and young protester loses hand; Vance blames immigration
Protests against rising living costs and public service issues led to violent clashes across France. In Paris, masked groups vandalized shops and clashed with police during demonstrations. Numerous public buildings were attacked in various cities, including Limoges, Marseille, and Lyon. Authorities reported over 1,200 arrests while thousands participated in marches across the nation. Political leaders condemned the violence and emphasized accountability for those involved.
France protests: Why are half a million people on the streets in the country?
Protests against the government have escalated in France, involving more than 500,000 participants across major cities. While the protests began as a student-led movement focused on educational issues, they have since expanded to include grievances about the rising cost of living. Police responded with force as violence erupted in places like Paris and Lyon, where looting and arson was reprorted. The government said that 1,200 arrests had been made.
Protesters across France rally over rising living costs, joining students' grievances
Protests have arisen in France regarding increasing living costs and dissatisfaction with educational conditions. High school students, supported by the CGT union, are actively participating in demonstrations. President Emmanuel Macron has called for calm while emphasizing respect for individuals and property. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced the anticipation of numerous protests and implemented restrictions on specific gatherings. Recent student protests have resulted in significant unrest and have impacted national attention.
Delhi traders urge PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi, Kejriwal to postpone protests till January 31
Bharatiya Udyog Vyapar Mandal has requested political protests in Delhi to be postponed until January 31, next year. This appeal highlighted the importance of the upcoming festival and wedding season for traders and workers. Demonstrations are reportedly causing significant business disruptions, particularly affecting market access and transportation. The trade body emphasised that such interruptions harm Delhi's economy and broader commercial networks.
L Murugan resigns, sparks speculation of imminent cabinet reshuffle
L Murugan has resigned from his position in the Modi government for political reasons. He aims to enhance the BJP's presence in Tamil Nadu leading to the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. In his resignation letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. Murugan's commitment involves working closely with BJP workers across various districts and communities.
Maharashtra govt to submit detailed memorandum for Central drought relief
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis outlined plans to address drought impacts in the state. Employment, food security, and water supply initiatives will support affected farmers and communities. The government will utilize technology for transparent water distribution and make water for drinking a priority. Fodder procurement and storage plans aim to assist livestock amidst shortages. A comprehensive memorandum will be submitted to the Union government for disaster relief coordination.
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