Mon Feb 02 03:05:43 UTC 2026: ### BMS Criticizes Union Budget 2026 as ‘Worker-Deficient’ Despite Growth Focus

The Story:
The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), a prominent trade union, has expressed strong reservations about the Union Budget 2026, despite acknowledging its focus on growth-oriented sectors. While the BMS appreciates proposals related to container manufacturing, textile parks, and infrastructure development, it criticizes the budget for failing to adequately address the livelihood and social security concerns of the Indian working class. Key concerns include the lack of enhanced honorariums for scheme workers, the absence of clarity on minimum pension under EPS-95, and the failure to increase the wage ceiling for EPF and ESI.

Key Points:

  • BMS acknowledges the budget’s emphasis on labor-intensive sectors but argues that employment generation without adequate wages and social security is not inclusive development.
  • The organization is critical of proposed labor code notifications and banking reforms without sufficient worker safeguards, predicting increased insecurity and informalization.
  • The BMS expresses disappointment over the continued neglect of Anganwadi, ASHA, and Mid-Day meal workers, specifically the lack of recognition and minimum wages.
  • The absence of announcements regarding eligibility criteria and minimum pension under EPS-95 is deemed unacceptable.
  • The non-increase in the wage ceiling for EPF and ESI is a concern, as it could exclude a significant number of workers from social security schemes.
  • The BMS highlights the lack of a dedicated social security fund for the unorganized sector, including gig and platform workers.
  • The organization cautions against increasing privatization and contractualization without job security and labor protections.
  • The budget’s silence on the formation of the 8th Central Pay Commission and reforms in NPS is causing dissatisfaction among government employees.
  • The BMS vows to intensify its struggle to ensure fair wages, dignified employment, and comprehensive social security for all workers.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Union Budget 2026 faces criticism from labor unions for prioritizing economic growth over worker welfare.
  • The BMS believes that current policies exacerbate the vulnerability of workers in the unorganized sector, especially women.
  • The focus on growth without adequate social safety nets could lead to increased social and economic inequality.

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