Haryana Government Undertakes Comprehensive Initiative to Provide Long-Term Job Security

Chandigarh, September 6: The Haryana Government has taken a significant initiative towards providing better socio-economic security to sanitation workers employed on municipal rolls in urban local bodies through job security, regular wage increases and other benefits. Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has given in-principle approval to bring these employees under the Haryana Contractual Employees (Security of Service) Act, 2024, so that they can avail benefits almost similar to those available to regular employees.

At present, 13,093 sanitation workers are employed on municipal rolls in urban local bodies across the state. These employees are currently being paid a monthly amount of Rs. 20,590. The government’s decision to bring them under the ambit of the Act will pave the way for making their future more secure and dignified. Through this initiative, job security for sanitation workers on municipal rolls up to the age of 60 years will be ensured. In addition, they will receive a risk allowance of Rs. 2,000 per month. Keeping in view the nature of their work and the important duties they perform every day, this step reflects the government’s sensitivity towards them.

*Government goes beyond the benefits available under the Act*

Taking another in-principle decision in the interest of the employees, the government has also agreed in principle to provide an additional 15 per cent amount in the monthly wages over and above the eligibility-based benefits available under the Act. This will provide direct financial benefit to sanitation workers who have been serving on municipal rolls for a long period. The monthly amount payable to sanitation workers who have been working on municipal rolls for more than 10 years will increase to Rs. 25,560. In addition, the government has agreed in principle to increase the dearness allowance every six months.

*Guarantee of a dignified future along with social security*

Eligible employees under the Haryana Contractual Employees Act, 2024 will be able to avail annual dearness allowance, death-cum-gratuity, maternity leave, ex-gratia financial assistance under the Haryana Kaushal Rozgar Nigam (HKRNL), and benefits related to appointment. The government has also taken steps towards ensuring gratuity benefits for the employees. Thus, this initiative of the government is not limited merely to increasing wages, but is a comprehensive effort to provide sanitation workers with long-term job security, social security and economic stability.

*Recognition of the contribution of sanitation workers*

Sanitation workers play an important role in keeping cities clean and healthy. They perform their duties with complete dedication and responsibility even under adverse conditions. In such a situation, it is the government’s responsibility to protect their interests and provide them with the necessary facilities to lead a dignified life. The state government is committed to the welfare of every section of society in the spirit of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas’. This in-principle decision to provide job security, better wages and social security benefits to sanitation workers on municipal rolls is part of this commitment.