Islamabad: Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain has stated that ensuring dignity, protection, fair wages, and equal opportunities for workers are among the government's top priorities. He expressed these views while addressing a ceremony held in Islamabad to mark International Labour Day, organized by the Ittehad Union of All Pakistan OGDCL Employees (Registered) CBA.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister emphasized that workers are the backbone of any nation, and their hard work plays a crucial role in Pakistan's development, industrial stability, and global recognition. He reiterated the government's commitment to protecting workers' rights not only at the national level but also on the international stage.

Chaudhry Salik Hussain revealed that over 7,62,000 Pakistanis were provided employment abroad last year, with remittances reaching around 40 billion dollars. He also mentioned the creation of new employment opportunities through agreements with Italy, Qatar, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.

Highlighting financial support measures for workers, the Minister stated that the marriage grant has been increased from 400,000 rupees to 600,000 rupees, and the death grant has been raised from 800,000 rupees to 1,000,000 rupees. He announced plans to allot houses and flats on merit to industrial workers in Islamabad, including OGDCL workers.

Chaudhry Salik Hussain also discussed enhancements in pensions under the Employees' Old-Age Benefits Institution, along with digital reforms such as the Workers Welfare Fund mobile app and the e-Protector system, which have improved convenience and transparency. He assured that strict actions have been taken against illegal recruitment agents to safeguard workers from exploitation.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of commemorative shields to the Federal Minister and other distinguished guests. The event was attended by Secretary Workers Welfare Fund Zulfiqar Ahmed, Managing Director of Oil and Gas Development Company Limited Ahmed Hayat Lak, Managing Director OEC Naseer Khan Kashani, President of the All Pakistan OGDCL Employees Union (Registered) CBA Zahid Hussain Bhutto, General Secretary of the Packages Group Workers Union Sheikh Mohsin Ilyas, and office-bearers of labor unions from various provinces.