Page 88 - Handbook on Convergence of Service

Handbook on Convergence: Ministry of Labour and Employment

4
Chapter

Background and Need for

Convergence

The Government of India has been undertaking convergence amongst its
ministries, policies and schemes as part of ‘Whole of Government’ approach
for system wide reforms for more effective, efficient delivery of public services
and enhanced coverage. The Ministry of Labour and Employment has also been
focussing on convergence of various schemes for the welfare of the workers.
A deeper analysis needs to be undertaken as to why convergence is required
specifically in the context of Ministry of Labour and Employment.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment provides a gamut of services to workers
and employers to facilitate sustainable development for all. The attached offices,
subordinate offices and autonomous organisations of the Ministry are its organs
through which these services are delivered to these groups.
The congruence in services and target groups calls for collaboration and
coordination amongst these organs. However, since their inception, most of
these institutions have been functioning within their respective remit taking
independent paths to realise their assigned goals. Though the organisations have
been largely effective at delivering these services within the available means,
resources, and technology; convergence among these organisations would
greatly enhance their effectiveness and efficiency.

Illustration A provides valuable insights into the necessity and extent of
convergence, considering the current relationships among these organizations,
their services/functions, and the target groups. Employer and workers are
required to approach and access multiple organisations for similar services
through several interfaces or points of contacts. There are several similarities
and intersections in the services provided and the groups targeted by these
organizations which include both formal and informal sector. These services can
be clubbed into few categories based on their similarities:

• quasi-judicial functions and enforcement of labour laws
• provision of social security
• occupational safety and health
• skilling, workers’ education and employment services
• data collection, statistical analysis and research

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