Organizing workshops for workers: Awareness was created about the rights of the workers

A two-day workshop was organized by the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), London, from July 5-6 at The Renest Hotel in Gandhidham. ITF expert Rajendra Giri gave detailed information about the institute at the beginning of the workshop. He said the ITF operates in 160 countries and has about two crore members in the transport sector. He gave guidance on the need to form an organisation for workers in the unorganised sector and ways to engage more workers. They also discussed in detail about government worker welfare schemes, benefits available through banks and other institutions, constitutional rights and legal provisions. The workshop was inaugurated by Maji MP and President of Skilled Unskilled Workers Union Poonamben Jat, General Secretary Veljibhai Jat, KPKS President Ranabhai Visaria, Kanchanben and Rajendra Giri of Kutch District General Mazdoor Sangh along with Deep Pragatya. Punamben said such programmes provide motivation and guidance to workers to get organisation and justice. Ranabhai and Kanchanben also made occasional speeches. The event was attended by office bearers and members of Skilled Unskilled Workers Association, Kandla Port Employees Union and Kutch District General Mazdoor Sangh. Concerns were expressed about the exploitation of workers in the unorganised sector and it was decided to work to solve their problems in the near future and ensure that government rights and facilities are available. Members of the three unions including Satish Mota, Padmakar Batrakhaye, Jayanti Rewal, Mukesh Bharwad were present in the workshop.