Odisha Issues 2,608 Licences for Migrant Workers in Three Years
Bhubaneswar: Odisha has issued 2,608 licences covering 1.67 lakh migrant workers over the past three years under the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979.
Labour Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia revealed that in 2024, 1,037 licences were granted for 70,142 workers, followed by 1,465 licences for 92,176 workers in 2025, and 106 licences for 5,062 workers in 2026.
To address distress migration, the state government has formed a high-level Task Force chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo.
The panel aims to strengthen enforcement of labour laws, register migrant families and contractors, and ensure effective implementation of welfare schemes.
Additionally, livelihood initiatives under the VB-GRAM G programme are being rolled out, focusing on livestock shelters, land development, horticulture, irrigation, and fisheries.
These measures are designed to create sustainable employment opportunities and reduce dependency on migration.
Minister Singhkhuntia emphasised that these steps reflect Odisha’s commitment to protecting its workforce and enhancing livelihood security across rural communities.
