Central Bureau of Communication, Shillong successfully organised a Special Publicity Programme on Viksit Bharat at Sohïong, East Khasi Hills District recently, to raise awareness of labour schemes for the unorganised sector. The programme also aimed at raising awareness about key Government of India themes, such as Swachhata Hi Seva, Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, Mission Life, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, as well as the vision of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).
The event aimed to inspire active participation from local communities and educate them on these vital national issues. With over 100 villagers in attendance, the programme raised awareness of various labour schemes, pension programs and benefits for the unorganised sector conducted by Smt. D. Lyngdoh, Labour Inspector from the Block Labour Office, Mawphlang and Smt. C. Lyngskor, Bank Manager from Meghalaya Rural Bank, Sohïong.
Labour Inspector from the Block Labour Office, Mawphlang, Smt. Lyngdoh, spoke in detail about the benefits available to construction workers through the Meghalaya Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (MBOCWWB). She explained the eligibility criteria for registration and the various grants and benefits that registered workers could avail. Recognising that most of the villagers fall under the category of construction workers, she also highlighted the importance of obtaining an Aadhar card to facilitate access to government schemes.
Bank Manager from MRB, Smt. C. Lyngskor addressed the gathering on three key pension schemes designed for unorganized workers—Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Atal Pension Yojana (APY), and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY). She explained the benefits of each scheme, the required contributions, and the financial security they provide, encouraging villagers to enroll for better financial stability in the future.
The programme was led by chairperson Josephas Thongni who gave the welcome speech and briefed about the programme. The event was also graced by Shri D. Syiemlieh, Headman of Sohïong, as the Chief Guest. In his speech, he expressed gratitude to the CBC Regional Office Shillong for organising the event, emphasising its importance in educating and empowering the villagers. He also encouraged villagers to make use of the various benefits offered by the Labour Department and financial institutions, particularly the pension schemes for unorganised workers.
Towards the end of the event, winners of the dancing competition were awarded cash prizes. Ibadondor Malngiang secured the first prize, followed by Kyntiewbha Kharmuti in second place and Dollcynia Jana in third. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Christina Taipodia from PIB Shillong, who expressed appreciation to the village for hosting the event and extended gratitude to the resource persons from the Labour Department and Meghalaya Rural Bank for their informative sessions.
