(a) whether the Government has conducted any survey to determine
the number of beedi workers who went out of job during last three
years as a result of Anti-smoking Act, 2003;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has made any alternate professional
rehabilitation for these ousted workers; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a): No, Madam,
(b): Does not arise.
(c) & (d): The Ministry has initiated action for rehabilitation of the beedi workers
to provide them vocational training for viable alternative sources of livelihood.
Welfare Commissioners have Identified some courses and areas, where the concentration
of beedi workers is more. The courses/trades are; Zardosi embroidery, Fabric Painting,
Knitting & Weaving, Flower Making, Block Painting, Purse Making, Patch Work, Applique,
Quilting, Breading & Smocking, Soft Toys, Beauty-care, Babies Garment, Skirt Tops,
Blouses, Salwar Kameez, Machine Embroidery, Computer Fundamentals, MS-Office & Internet,
Basic Automotive Servicing, Basic of Beauty & Hair Dressing, Videography, Agarbatti/Mombatti
making etc. Some of these trades and courses do not require any basic qualification or age
limit.