Delhi LG greenlights DBT System for expanded construction worker welfare

In a move aimed at enhancing the efficacy of welfare initiatives and securing the livelihoods of construction laborers, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has granted approval for the extension of welfare scheme benefits through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. This decision, made last week, is anticipated to usher in a new era of targeted benefit delivery and reduced leakages.

Under the Delhi Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board, 17 welfare schemes currently offer financial assistance to more than 1.3 million registered laborers. The innovative DBT system seeks to streamline the distribution process by mandating that all financial perks, including disability pensions, medical aid, maternity benefits, and more, be disbursed exclusively through authenticated Aadhaar-based transactions.

The implementation of these approved schemes, as per Section 7 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, signifies a landmark effort to root out fraudulent activities and promote financial transparency. It also aligns with the LG's directive for heightened supervision and continuous monitoring of disbursements. Stricter accountability measures are now in place to swiftly address any detected instances of malpractice.

Integral to this overhaul is the commitment to refine the registration procedure, ensuring that only authentic construction workers benefit from the board's resources. Deputy labour commissioners across districts will shoulder the responsibility of overseeing the transparent execution of benefit transfers. A parallel endeavour to validate registrations and the legitimacy of beneficiaries will further underscore the integrity of this process.

This reform arrives in the wake of concerns over financial mismanagement within the board and instances of fictitious beneficiaries. Investigations into alleged cases of illicit registrations and financial discrepancies are presently being conducted by the anti-corruption branch under the auspices of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

With the Lieutenant Governor's imprimatur, Delhi's construction workers can anticipate a more secure and accountable welfare system, fortified by technology and an unwavering commitment to their well-being.

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Delhi LG greenlights DBT System for expanded construction worker welfare

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