Efficiency Of Welfare Fund Utilization Under Bocw Act In Enhancing Social Security For Contract Workers Engaged In Construction Sector In India

Abstract

This study highlights the utilization of the welfare fund under the Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act. The Contract Labour Act and BOCW Act are both applicable on a construction site. The BOCW Act recognizes contract laborers as construction workers and grants them similar rights and benefits. The welfare fund is established for the welfare of construction workers and can be utilized for purposes such as medical expenses, education, housing, and skill development. The BOWC Act are crucial for protecting labourers' rights in India's unorganized sector, as they are vulnerable to exploitation. Governments must conduct a social audit to improve the implementation. General directions include a State Advisory Committee, Registering Officers, a Welfare Board, and utilizing Cess collected for worker benefits. There are approximately 57 million workers are working in constructions in India. The Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Fund, has accumulated a total of approximately Rs. 52,000 crores as of March 2021. Still there is no proper utilization of welfare fund for the elementary benefits of construction workers in India. The measures suggested aim to ensure efficient implementation of the Act in India. The utilization of the fund is monitored by the respective state governments' BOCW Welfare Board. The proper utilization of the welfare fund can improve the life and conditions of work of buliding workers, which can lead to increased productivity and a better quality of life.