Delhi CM Launches Free Annual Health Checkups for Workers and Their Families

On Thursday, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that the Delhi government will conduct free annual health check-ups for workers and their family members. This initiative aims to address the health risks faced by workers, particularly those working in difficult and hazardous environments, and ensure their well-being. During a program to celebrate International Labour Day, Gupta emphasized the government's responsibility for the health of its workforce. She added that the government would also implement a notification designating midday to 3 pm as mandatory rest hours for workers, particularly in light of the intense summer heat.

Gupta noted that the government has already issued an official advisory as part of the summer action plan, which emphasizes the need for workers to rest during the hottest part of the day. This step aims to protect workers from the risks associated with working in extreme temperatures. In addition to the health check-ups and rest hours, Gupta also revealed that the Delhi government had increased the minimum wage for workers as of April 1, 2025.

The Delhi government has also initiated several other programs designed to benefit workers directly. These include the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides health insurance to workers, and the Vay Vandana Yojana for senior citizens aged 70 and above. Additionally, the government has launched the Atal canteen initiative, which provides affordable food to workers, and Palna Kendra creches for children of working women, which ensures their children are taken care of while they work.

Gupta stressed that the government has a responsibility to care for all workers who contribute to the nation’s progress through their hard work and dedication. She highlighted a new initiative: the installation of 3,000 water coolers across Delhi. This project aims to provide clean drinking water to people, especially during the intense summer months, thus ensuring workers and the public can stay hydrated and safe.

Further addressing the welfare of workers, Gupta mentioned that, as per the budget announcement, the government will establish welfare boards for several categories of workers, including construction workers, gig workers, domestic helpers, and taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers. These boards will work towards improving the welfare and working conditions of these workers, who often face uncertain and precarious employment situations.

The event also saw the presence of Delhi Labour Minister Kapil Mishra and New Delhi MP Bansuri Swaraj. The gathering, held at Karolbagh, was part of the broader efforts by the Delhi government to acknowledge and honor the contributions of workers while also addressing the challenges they face, particularly in terms of health and welfare.

These initiatives reflect the Delhi government's commitment to improving the lives of its workers by providing both immediate and long-term solutions to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. The measures announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta underline the government’s focus on building a more supportive environment for the city's workers, recognizing their invaluable contribution to the city's development and growth.