Members of Parliament raised critical workforce-related issues during Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha on Monday, 16 December, 2024. Discussions focused on the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS), work culture in multinational corporations (MNCs), and the need for social security for film technicians and support staff.
A demand was made for the immediate implementation of an enhanced pension scheme under the EPS, as approved by the Supreme Court in 2022. Concerns were raised over the limited disbursal of higher pensions, with only a fraction of applicants having received the benefit so far.
In the entertainment sector, calls were made for stronger enforcement of labour laws to protect technicians and support staff in the film and television industry. It was alleged that workers faced exploitation, with inadequate pay, lack of overtime compensation, and insufficient access to benefits such as provident fund and healthcare. Suggestions included standardising contracts to improve job security.
Attention was also drawn to the need for special trains during the festive season to help workers from Kerala travel home for Christmas and New Year at reasonable costs, easing travel challenges for families.
Concerns over the impact of corporate work culture were highlighted, following the untimely death of a young professional earlier this year. The incident sparked discussions on the physical and mental strain faced by employees in high-pressure corporate roles, emphasising the urgent need for reforms to prioritise employee welfare.
The session underscored the importance of addressing workforce challenges across sectors, urging immediate government action.
