By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 24: A special publicity programme on Viksit Bharat was held in Sohiong village of East Khasi Hills to raise awareness on labour schemes for the unorganised sector. Organised by the Central Bureau of Communication, Shillong, the programme aimed at raising awareness about key central themes such as Swachhata Hi Seva, Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Mission Life, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, as well as the vision of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
The event aimed to inspire active participation from local communities and educate them on these vital national issues. With over 100 villagers in attendance, the programme raised awareness of various labour schemes, pension programs and benefits for the unorganised sector conducted by Labour Inspector from the Block Labour Office, Mawphlang, D Lyngdoh, and Bank Manager from Meghalaya Rural Bank, Sohiong, C Lyngskor. Labour Inspector D Lyngdoh spoke in detail about the benefits available to construction workers through the Meghalaya Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (MBOCWWB). She explained the eligibility criteria for registration and the various grants and benefits that registered workers could avail. Recognising that most of the villagers fall under the category of construction workers, she also highlighted the importance of obtaining an Aadhaar card to facilitate access to government schemes.
MRB Bank Manager C Lyngskor, on the other hand, addressed the gathering on three key pension schemes designed for unorganised sector workers — Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Atal Pension Yojana (APY), and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY). She explained the benefits of each scheme, the required contributions, and the financial security they provide, encouraging villagers to enroll for better financial stability in the future.
The event also saw in attendance Headman of Sohïong D Syiemlieh as the chief guest.
In his speech, he expressed gratitude to the CBC Regional Office Shillong for organising the event, emphasising its importance in educating and empowering the villagers. He also encouraged villagers to make use of the various benefits offered by the Labour department and financial institutions, particularly the pension schemes for unorganised workers.
Towards the end of the event, winners of the dancing competition were awarded cash prizes. Ibadondor Malngiang secured the first prize, followed by Kyntiewbha Kharmuti in second place and Dollcynia Jana in third. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Christina Taipodia from PIB Shillong, who expressed appreciation towards the village for hosting the event and extended gratitude to the resource persons from the Labour department and Meghalaya Rural Bank for their informative sessions.