Odisha increases accidental death compensation for construction workers to Rs 6 lakh

Bhubaneswar, Sept 11: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today announced enhanced financial benefits for construction workers at a welfare ceremony held at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre. The Odisha Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board will increase accidental death compensation from ₹4 lakh to ₹6 lakh and natural death compensation from ₹2 lakh to ₹3 lakh.

In his address, Chief Minister Majhi lauded the vital role of construction workers in developing the state's infrastructure. "You are the backbone of construction. Roads, ghats, buildings, factories, ports, airports, educational institutions, and hospitals—all these are unimaginable without you," he said, highlighting the essential contributions of laborers.

Majhi emphasized the unique human capacity to build and innovate, praising construction workers for their ability to transform basic materials into extraordinary structures. He underscored their pivotal role as nation builders, capable of creating impressive infrastructure from simple resources like cement, sand, and mud.

Minister for Forest, Environment, Labour, and Employees' State Insurance, Shri Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, also addressed the gathering. He reaffirmed the board's commitment to the welfare and social security of construction workers and their families. Khuntia acknowledged the significant impact of construction workers on modern infrastructure and noted that approximately 43 lakh workers are registered with the board. He mentioned ongoing efforts to improve labor registration and awareness at the district level, as directed by the Chief Minister.