The Hindu Business Line : Centre plans umbrella legislation for agri sector

AS part of its drive to provide social security to workers in the unorganised sector, the Union Government has revived the proposal for `umbrella legislation" for the agriculture sector.

The proposal, originally drafted in 1975 and revived time and again, has failed to find favour with the States, which is essential for enactment.

Also, taking a cue from the Kerala Government, the Ministry is drafting a scheme for social security to weavers, handloom workers and toddy tappers.

The Government has already broadbased the scope of social security scheme for the bidi industry. It now covers 40 lakh people employed in the industry.

Speaking to Business Line, the Union Labour Secretary, Dr P.D. Shenoy, said that discussions had been initiated with the State Governments on draft legislation for the agriculture sector. "We will hold further discussions with the related sectors and the State Governments before getting on to the task of finalising the draft." Labour Ministry sources said that the Government had also revived the draft umbrella legislation for increasing productivity in the small and unorganised sector and providing social security to labourers in these sectors.

The draft Bill was prepared by the NDA Government subsequent to the recommendations of the Second National Labour Commission in June 2002. The Bill, however, failed to receive Cabinet approval mainly because of opposition from entrepreneurs in the small and cottage sectors and differences of opinion among trade unions, State Governments and other stakeholders.