Minister Santosh Lad Launches Smart Cards

Belagavi

Labour Minister Santosh Lad on Monday inaugurated the Shramika temporary housing complex and distributed smart cards to unorganised sector workers near the Hindalco Guest House in Yamunapur Industrial Area.

Lad said 91 unorganised sectors have been identified across Karnataka, with over 31 lakh workers registered. To provide social security, smart cards are being issued to enable access to healthcare, insurance, and subsidies.

He also announced three residential schools for construction workers’ children and proposed a cess on petrol and diesel to fund welfare schemes. Accident insurance for commercial drivers is also being planned.

Lad raised concern over the 1.6 lakh annual road accident deaths in India and urged departments to address high-risk zones. He highlighted gig worker benefits like medical and life insurance.

District Minister Satish Jarkiholi listed key schemes—marriage and maternity aid, pensions, funeral expenses, and education support—urging workers to utilise them.

Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar praised Lad’s targeted welfare approach and called for the removal of bogus worker cards through awareness drives.

The event was attended by MLAs Asif Sait and Babasaheb Patil, BUDA Chairman Laxmanrao Chingale, and other officials.