Sindh govt unveils workers’ welfare card

KARACHI: The Sindh government has announced a slew of welfare schemes for industrial workers under the newly introduced Workers Welfare Card.

According to Secretary Labour Rafique Qureshi, the initiative will provide industrial workers with accident health insurance of up to Rs. 2 million. 700,000, along with distribution of 10,000 e-motorcycles and sewing machines, among other benefits.

He said the Workers Welfare Card will open a “new, bright chapter” in the lives of workers.

Sindh is the first province in Pakistan to introduce accident health insurance of up to Rs. 700,000 for workers in over 270 hospitals across the country.

Highlighting workers as the backbone of the national economy, Qureshi announced that 10,000 e-motorcycles would soon be distributed among industrial women and minority workers.

He noted that this important initiative will not only improve their welfare but will also have positive environmental impacts.

Sewing machines will also be distributed under the programme to further empower women.

The secretary added that workers will no longer have to stand in long queues, as the welfare card will enable easy access to facilities including marriage grants and death grants.

Qureshi stressed that exploitation of workers will not be tolerated, warning that industries that do not register workers will face strict action. He urged workers to understand their rights and ensure that they are registered under the welfare system.