In a significant move to uplift the Nepali workforce, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security has announced the ‘Shramadan’ scheme, a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing the challenges faced by workers and improving the labour market. The announcement was made by Minister Dol Prasad Aryal during a press conference held at the Ministry on the occasion of International Workers’ Day.
The ‘Shramadan’ campaign, which translates to “offering labour,” has been designed with the objective of solving the problems of Nepali workers and enhancing employment opportunities. Minister Aryal emphasized that the Ministry has developed a comprehensive and practical plan to tackle the issues surfacing in the labour market.
The scheme encompasses a range of programs, including ‘Second Innings,’ Employment Bank, Samata (Equity), Connect, Saath (With You), Call Centre, and Pesagat Yatra (Professional Journey), among others. Minister Aryal clarified that these programs will be implemented gradually rather than simultaneously.
“This is not only a plan, but also a campaign,” he stated, emphasizing that the initiative aims to address the multifaceted needs of Nepali citizens related to labour and employment through a one-door system. In the first phase of Shramadan, programs related to seven sectors have been included, symbolizing the seven colors of the rainbow.
Minister Aryal shared that the program is focused on developing the skills and competencies of Nepali workers, addressing their mental health concerns, providing special facilities for classes and communities with special needs, and increasing knowledge of labour laws to ensure legal protection. The ministry’s plan, prepared after two months of study, will provide the necessary resources and tools to support these initiatives.
In the first phase, the Ministry will offer a 24-hour telephone service, appoint focal persons in relevant agencies to receive complaints, and respond to calls and missed calls. According to the Minister, efforts are underway to develop the Shramadan app in the second phase, and preparations are also being made for CIP line telephone service and IVR service for Nepali migrant workers based abroad.
The Ministry has established a mechanism to address inquiries, complaints, and problems received through various social networks, ensuring a streamlined resolution process. A Shramadan call centre has already been inaugurated, where inquiries, complaints, and problems can be reported by calling the toll-free number 1141 or the additional number 9851347222.
With the ‘Shramadan’ scheme, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security aims to empower the Nepali workforce, address their concerns, and create a conducive environment for employment opportunities. This comprehensive initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and prosperity of Nepali workers across various sectors.
