Salik Hussain pays tribute to workers on International Labour Day
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain on Friday paid rich tribute to the working class on the occasion of International Labour Day, acknowledging their pivotal role as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and development.
In his message, the minister stated, “Today, on International Labour Day, I salute the great workers who laid the foundation of labour rights through their struggle. Workers are the fundamental pillar of any nation’s progress.”
The minister emphasized that the government has made the welfare of workers a top priority both at the national and international levels. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to protecting fundamental labour rights, including the ratification of key International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions. The government is also committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to decent employment, economic growth, and social protection.
Highlighting the achievements of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development over the past year, the minister noted that over 762,000 Pakistanis were provided employment opportunities abroad. Remittances have increased to nearly $40 billion, and new jobs have been created through bilateral agreements with Italy, Qatar, South Korea, Belarus, and several other countries.
“The government has increased financial assistance for workers — marriage grants have been raised from Rs. 400,000 to Rs. 600,000, and death grants have been increased from Rs. 800,000 to Rs. 1 million,” the minister announced.
He further stated that industrial workers would soon be allotted homes and flats on merit in Islamabad. A significant increase has also been made in pensions under the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), alongside reforms to make the pension system more transparent and effective.
Digital reforms have also been introduced in institutions. The launch of the Workers’ Welfare Fund mobile app and the e-Protector system has improved transparency and service delivery. Strict measures have been taken to protect workers from exploitation, including the cancellation of licences of illegal recruitment agents.
“Our vision is to build an inclusive and just society where every worker enjoys dignity, social protection, and empowerment — because our workers are the true breadwinners of this nation,” the minister concluded.
He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to provide full support to workers and their families, ensure social protection, and guarantee social justice for all.
