The four new Labour Codes are designed to advance the goal of a “Viksit Bharat” while strengthening social security for mine workers, including those employed on a contractual basis, Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje said on Wednesday.
Addressing the 125th Foundation Day celebrations of the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, the minister said the Labour Codes seek to create a more secure, inclusive and sustainable framework for workers in the mining sector. She called on the DGMS to actively promote awareness of the Codes and to adopt modern technologies to further enhance mine safety standards.
Assuring full support from the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Karandlaje said efforts would continue to strengthen DGMS to ensure safer and more sustainable mining operations across the country. She underlined that mining activities play a crucial role in India’s growth trajectory and are directly linked to national development.
Reflecting on the 125-year history of DGMS, the minister said the institution’s long journey stands as a testament to the commitment and sacrifices of generations of officials and mine workers who have worked to improve safety and health standards in the sector. She paid tribute to mine workers, noting that their courage and dedication, often involving serious risks to life, form the backbone of the mining industry and contribute significantly to nation-building.
Reiterating that worker safety remains the foremost priority of the government, Karandlaje said this aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of “First Safety.” She highlighted the importance of DGMS in maintaining uniform safety norms across mining operations nationwide and stressed the need for coordinated efforts between the Centre and states.
The minister also emphasised the role of DGMS regional offices, calling for stronger engagement and closer monitoring to ensure effective enforcement of safety regulations at mine sites. She said such coordination is essential to improving compliance and safeguarding the well-being of mine workers.
Established in 1902, the Directorate General of Mines Safety continues to serve as the key regulatory authority overseeing safety and health standards in mines across India. Over the decades, DGMS has played a central role in shaping safety practices and supporting the sustainable growth of the mining sector.
As part of the foundation day programme, Karandlaje visited the exhibition, old records section and models gallery, which showcased the evolution of mine safety practices in India. On the occasion, she released the new DGMS logo, replacing the previous one, along with the DGMS theme song and a digital coffee table book documenting the organisation’s journey and contributions. A digital compendium highlighting best practices in mine safety was also released.
