Delhi Construction Workers' Schemes to use DBT

Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has granted approval to extend all Delhi Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board schemes via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This move aims to enhance targeted delivery, minimise leakages, and bolster the well-being of construction workers.Over 1.3 million labourers registered with the welfare board benefit from the Delhi government's 17 welfare schemes. A 1% cess on construction costs from projects exceeding Rs 1 million funds these initiatives.Approved schemes under the Aadhaar Act's Section 7 will channel financial benefits such as disability pension, medical aid, maternity support, and more through DBT, authenticated by Aadhaar.The LG emphasised robust oversight and accountability to counter fraudulent activities. Transparent registration processes and beneficiary verification are key, guided by deputy labour commissioners.The initiative responds to financial discrepancies and ghost construction workers. Investigations into alleged illegitimate registration and financial irregularities are ongoing, led by the anti-corruption branch.Overall, the move is set to optimise benefits distribution and uplift construction workers' quality of life.