Salik announces to allot houses, flats to industrial workers in Islamabad

Islamabad
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, stated that ensuring dignity, protection, fair wages, and equal opportunities for workers in Pakistan is the government’s top priority.
He expressed these views while addressing a ceremony held in Islamabad on the occasion of International Labour Day, organized by the Ittehad Union of All Pakistan OGDCL Employees (Registered) CBA.
The event was attended by Secretary Workers Welfare Fund Zulfiqar Ahmed, Managing Director of Oil and Gas Development Company Limited Ahmed Hayat Lak, Managing Director OEC Naseer Khan Kashani, President of the All Pakistan OGDCL Employees Union (Registered) CBA Zahid Hussain Bhutto, General Secretary of the Packages Group Workers Union Sheikh Mohsin Ilyas and office-bearers of labor unions from various provinces.
The Federal Minister said that workers are the backbone of any nation, and their hard work plays a key role in Pakistan’s development, industrial stability, and global recognition.
He added that the government is committed to protecting workers’ rights not only at the national level but also internationally.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain stated that over 762,000 Pakistanis were provided employment abroad last year, while remittances reached approximately $40 billion.
He further noted that new employment opportunities have been created through agreements with countries including Italy, Qatar, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.
Highlighting financial support for workers, he said that the marriage grant has been increased from Rs. 400,000 to Rs. 600,000, while the death grant has been raised from Rs. 800,000 to Rs. 1,000,000.
The Federal Minister announced that soon, houses and flats will be allotted on merit to industrial workers in Islamabad, including OGDCL workers.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain also shared that pensions under the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution have been increased, while digital reforms—such as the Workers Welfare Fund mobile app and the e-Protector system—have enhanced convenience and transparency.
He said that strict actions have been taken against illegal recruitment agents to protect workers from exploitation.
The Federal Minister reaffirmed that his family has always stood with workers and will continue to do so.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasized the need to build a society where justice, equality, and dignified living opportunities for workers are ensured. He concluded by paying tribute to workers and praying for their prosperity and a bright future.
At the end of the ceremony, commemorative shields were presented to the Federal Minister and other distinguished guests.