Ministry of Labour Moves to Implement Reform Agenda; Token System Scrapped

The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security is taking steps to implement components of the government’s newly approved 100-point governance reform agenda. A meeting at Singha Durbar on March 29, attended by Minister Dipak Kumar Sah, focused on reform measures endorsed by the Cabinet on March 27. The minister instructed officials to prepare and promptly implement action plans aimed at creating a more organized, dignified, and secure labour sector while ensuring the protection of workers’ rights.

In this context, the ministry has abolished the token system for labour approvals, opting instead to issue approvals on the same day as applications are submitted. Additionally, it has prioritized the safety and welfare of Nepali migrant workers by setting minimum standards for foreign employment, which involve evaluating wages, workplace safety, health conditions, and the overall working environment.

Key initiatives launched include the development of audio-visual materials for pre-departure orientation training, with a move towards fully online training, enforcing minimum wages, and increasing participation in the contribution-based social security scheme. The ministry also plans to host skill fairs across all provinces in collaboration with the private sector, promote domestic employment via skill development initiatives, and enhance service delivery by incorporating information technology to lower costs and reduce processing times.

Moreover, the government intends to combat fraud in foreign employment, bolster occupational health and safety standards within industries, and foster entrepreneurship to create domestic job opportunities. Lastly, the ministry has resolved to expand bilateral labour agreements with five additional countries and reform existing labour-related laws to meet contemporary demands.