Endowment to the Future of Healthcare:Aster CMI Hospital Unveils a Path breaking Innovation in AI

Posted on by City Today News (City today.media)

BANGALORE, February 7, 2024-Aster CMI Hospital charges ahead as a healthcare AI patron with its groundbreaking innovative technology, which supports the health experts on various aspects of treatmentsuch as analyzing vast amounts of data that could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of diseases,developing new treatment options, and immediate monitoring of vitals for various specialties.

Al Carpal Tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one such technology that is developed by the Neurology Department which is poised to revolutionize nerve ultrasound diagnostics. This technology redefines, diagnoses, andscreens efficiently. It can identify the median nerve in ultrasound videos and detect CTS with the highestaccuracy (95%) marking a significant leap in healthcare innovation. The AI tool signifies a transformative stride towards precision and efficiency in CTS diagnosis, marking a new era in healthcare.

“As we witness the healthcare landscape evolve from a prescriptive to a predictive model, AI emerges asthe catalyst for this transformative journey. At Aster CMI Hospital, we proudly stand at the forefront,seamlessly merging human expertise with AI to pioneer a new era of healthcare excellence. Our close collaboration with government bodies underscores our commitment to ethical AI practices, rigorous regulatory compliance, and the highest standards of data privacy and security. This transformative,technology-enabled tool marks a new dawn healthcare.” says Dr. Nitish Shetty, CEO, Aster DM, Health care.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Lokesh Bathala, Lead Consultant Neurology, “This lab is an exemplification to the unlimited potential of AI in healthcare. We are pushing the boundaries of medical science, designing Al tools that will transform the future of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. These Altools can prevent long-term complications and improve the quality of life. It can also minimize the needfor repetitive examinations and invasive procedures, reducing patient’s discomfort and anxiety. While theAl tools significantly reduce the inference time, it is important to note that the final diagnosis will always -be carried out by the physician.”

Mr. Ramesh Kumar S, CEO -Aster Hospitals, Bangalore, said: “Aster CMI Hospital remains apioneering force in healthcare solutions, ever dedicated to tackling medical challenges and elevating patientcare with cutting-edge technology. It has been at the forefront, seamlessly weaving human expertise withAI to usher in a new era of healthcare excellence and actively engaging in collaborative efforts with providers, researchers, and innovators to unlock the full potential of AI for the greater good of humanity.”

Aster CMI Hospital continues its commitment to advancing healthcare solutions. We seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with the warmth of compassionate care, forging a future where personalized solutions meet ethical practices. Our collaborative spirit, evident in partnerships, guarantees trust in every innovation, ensuring advancements serve patients first. This tool exemplifies the hospital’s dedication to addressing medical challenges and enhancing patient care through cutting-edge technology.

City Today News 9341997936

SITARAM JINDAL HONORED WITH PADMA BHUSHAN FOR EXEMPLARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO NATURE CURE AND PHILANTHROPY

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Renowned Philanthropist and Visionary, Dr. Sitaram Jindal, Recognized for Transformative Impact in Healthcare and Education




Bengaluru, 6 February 2024: Dr. Sitaram Jindal, a distinguished figure in the realms of philanthropy and healthcare, has been bestowed with the prestigious Padma Bhushan, eliciting widespread excitement throughout India. The accolade is attributed to his significant role in his unparalleled philanthropic endeavors, particularly in the field of Naturecure. Dr. Jindal’s groundbreaking contributions to drugless therapy and the establishment of the Jindal Naturecure Institute (JNI) have earned him this esteemed recognition.

Born in 1932 in the remote village of Nalwa in Haryana, Dr. Jindal’s journey towards Naturecure began during his university years when he battled abdominal tuberculosis. Faced with a seemingly incurable condition, he sought refuge in a small Naturecure clinic, experiencing relief through fasting, enemas, and other unconventional methods. This transformative experience sparked his unwavering faith in Naturecure and Yoga.

Driven by a vision to establish a comprehensive Naturopathy and Yoga hospital, Dr. Jindal acquired a vast expanse of land on the outskirts of Bangalore in 1977-79. This marked the inception of JNI, equipped with a research wing funded generously by Jindal Aluminium Limited (JAL), demonstrating Dr. Jindal’s commitment to elevating Naturecure to new heights.

In stark contrast to conventional Naturecure treatments prevalent at the time, Dr. Jindal embarked on a mission to modernize and innovate this science. Recognizing the lack of enthusiasm and development in orthodox Naturecure practices, he dedicated himself to uplifting and promoting drugless therapies. The SJ Foundation, founded in 1969, became a financial pillar for his charitable initiatives, relying solely on contributions from JAL, without seeking support from the government or other individuals.

Dr. Jindal’s tireless efforts have significantly impacted the field of drugless healing, establishing JNI as a world-class facility specializing in the treatment of various ailments, including asthma, diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and even some cases of cancer. The institute, boasting 550 beds, has become a beacon of hope for those seeking drug-free alternatives for their health concerns.

In addition to JNI, Dr. Jindal has championed numerous charitable activities, showcasing his commitment to social reform. This includes the establishment of allopathy hospitals, schools, and colleges, rural development initiatives, adoption of villages for healthcare and education, and support for various NGOs working tirelessly in healthcare and education.

Dr. Jindal’s philanthropic endeavors extend beyond Naturecure, encompassing the establishment of eight charitable entities in his native village, Nalwa, benefitting a significant population in the surrounding areas. His dedication to social welfare is further evident in his support for underprivileged students through scholarships and the financial backing of NGOs committed to healthcare and education.

The impact of Dr. Jindal’s work goes beyond the walls of JNI. His holistic approach to health, emphasizing Naturopathy and Yoga, has transformed the lives of millions globally. His commitment to preventive care and raising awareness about the side effects of drugs aligns with his belief that Naturopathy can significantly alleviate the burden on allopathic hospitals.

Throughout his journey, Dr. Jindal has introduced numerous innovations and therapies, addressing a spectrum of health issues. From simplified abdomen packs to herbal teas, spinal bath tubs, and cold and hot reflexology tracks, his contributions have expanded the repertoire of Naturecure treatments.

In acknowledgment of his visionary leadership and immense contributions, Dr. Jindal has received accolades from eminent personalities, including former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Chandrashekar, I.K. Gujral, H.D. Deve Gowda, Deputy Prime Minister Devi Lal, and former Chief Minister of Karnataka Ramakrishna Hegde.

Dr. Jindal’s relentless pursuit of the betterment of society extends beyond healthcare. He has been a vocal advocate for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), urging industrialists to allocate a portion of their profits to eliminate poverty. His ongoing struggle with the government to increase the mandated CSR percentage reflects his unwavering commitment to social welfare.

Dr. Sitaram Jindal’s life and work epitomize a harmonious blend of business success and compassionate service to humanity. His dedication to Naturecure and philanthropy has left an indelible mark on the landscape of healthcare and social reform, making him a deserving recipient of the Padma Bhushan.

For more details:
info@jindalnaturecure.org/ dr.babina@jindalnaturecure.org
https://jindalnaturecure.in/ https://www.sitaramjindalfoundation.org/

City Today News 9341997936

ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಪ್ರಾಧಿಕಾರ, ಪೆರಿಪೆರಲ್ ರಿಂಗ್ ರಸ್ತೆಯ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಕೈಗೊಳ್ಳಲು ದಿನಾಂಕ: 25-01-2024 ರಂದು ಪ್ರಕಟಣೆ ಹೊರಡಿಸಿ ಕಾನೂನುಬಾಹಿರ ಟೆಂಡರ್ ಪ್ರಕ್ರಿಯೆ

Posted on by City Today News (City today.media)

ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ನಗರದಲ್ಲಿ ಪೆರಿಪೆರಲ್ ರಿಂಗ್ ರಸ್ತೆ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಯೋಜನೆಗಾಗಿ 65 ಕಿ.ಮೀ ಉದ್ದದ ತುಮಕೂರು ರಸ್ತೆಯಿಂದ ಹೊಸೂರು ರಸ್ತೆಯವರೆಗಿನ 1810 ಎಕರೆ ರೈತರ ಜಮೀನನ್ನು ಭೂಸ್ವಾಧೀನಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲು 2005 ರಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರಾಥಮಿಕ ಅಧಿಸೂಚನೆ ಹಾಗೂ 2007ರಲ್ಲಿ ಅಂತಿಮ ಅಧಿಸೂಚನೆ ಹೊರಡಿಸಿ 2024ರ ವೇಳೆಗೆ 19 ವರ್ಷ ವಿಳಂಬವಾಗಿದ್ದು ಪರಿಸರ ಇಲಾಖೆ ಸೇರಿದಂತೆ ಯಾವುದೇ ಇಲಾಖೆಗಳಿಂದ ಅನುಮತಿ ಪಡೆಯದೆ, ರೈತರಿಗೆ ಸೂಕ್ತ ಪರಿಹಾರ ನಿಗದಿಪಡಿಸದೆ, ಭೂಸ್ವಾಧೀನಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವ ಪ್ರಕ್ರಿಯೆ ನಡೆಸದೆ ಯಾವುದೇ ಪ್ರಗತಿ ಕಾಣದ ಈ ಯೋಜನೆ ಬಿಡಿಎ ಕಾಯ್ದೆಯಲ್ಲಿರುವಂತೆ ಯೋಜನೆಯ ಕಾಲಾವಧಿ 5 ವರ್ಷಗಳು ಮುಗಿದಿದ್ದು, ಯೋಜನೆಯು ರದ್ದಾಗುವಂತೆ ಕಾಯ್ದೆ ಹೇಳುತ್ತದೆ.

ಹಿಂದಿನ ಆಡಳಿತಾರೂಡ ಸರ್ಕಾರಗಳು /ಬಿಡಿಎ ನಿರಂತರವಾಗಿ ಮಾಡಿದ ರೈತವಿರೋಧಿ ಧೋರಣೆಯಿಂದ ಸ್ವಾಧೀನವಾಗಿರುವ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಪಹಣಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ನಮೂದಾಗುವಂತೆ ಮಾಡಿ, ರೈತರು ಸ್ವತಃ ಜಮೀನಿನಲ್ಲಿ ಯಾವುದೇ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ ಕಾಣದೆ ಆರ್ಥಿಕವಾಗಿ, ಸಾಮಾಜಿಕವಾಗಿ, ಶೈಕ್ಷಣಿಕವಾಗಿಯೂ ವಂಚಿತರಾಗುವಂತೆ ಮಾಡಿದೆ. ಇದಕ್ಕೆಲ್ಲಾ ಕಾರಣ ಸರ್ಕಾರ ಮತ್ತು ಬಿಡಿಎ ನಿಲುವುಗಳ ವಿರುದ್ಧ ‘ಅನೇಕ ಪ್ರತಿಭಟನೆ ನಡೆಸಿ ಮನವಿಗಳನ್ನು ನೀಡಿತ್ತಾದರೂ ರೈತರ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಕಾಳಜಿಯಿಲ್ಲದ ಸರ್ಕಾರಗಳು ಕಣ್ಮಚ್ಚೆ ಆಡಳಿತ ನಡೆಸುತ್ತಿರುತ್ತವೆ. ಪಿ.ಆರ್.ಆರ್. ರಸ್ತೆ ಯೋಜನೆ ಮಾತ್ರ Essential ಅನ್ನುವ  ವಿಧಾನಸೌಧ/ವಿಕಾಸಸೌಧದಲ್ಲಿ ಜಂಡಾ ಹೂಡಿರುವ ರಾಜಕಾರಣಿಗಳು, ಅಧಿಕಾರಿಗಳ ಕಣ್ಣಿಗೆ ರೈತ ಕುಟುಂಬಗಳು ಕೂಡ Essential ಅನ್ನೋದು ಕೂಡ ಮನವರಿಕೆ ಮಾಡಿಕೊಂಡು, ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಸರ್ಕಾರದ 2013ರ ಭೂ ಸ್ವಾಧೀನ ಕಾಯ್ದೆಯಂತೆ ಪರಿಹಾರ. ಪುನರ್‌ವಸತಿ ಸೌಲಭ್ಯ ನೀಡುವಲ್ಲಿ ಮುಂದಾಗಬೇಕೆನ್ನುವುದು ಅನ್ನಧಾತ ರೈತರ ಬೇಡಿಕೆ ಮತ್ತು ಸಂವಿಧಾನಬದ್ಧ ಮೂಲಭೂತ ಹಕ್ಕು ಕೂಡ.

ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಸರ್ಕಾರ 2013ರಲ್ಲಿ ಗೌರವಾನ್ವಿತ ಪ್ರಧಾನ ಮಂತ್ರಿಗಳಾದ ಮನಮೋಹನ್‌ಸಿಂಗ್ ರವರ ನೇತೃತ್ವದ ಸರ್ಕಾರ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರದ ಅನ್ನದಾತ ರೈತನ ಹಿತದೃಷ್ಟಿಯಿಂದ ಇಡೀ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರಕ್ಕೆ ಅನ್ವಯವಾಗುವಂತೆ The Right to fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act 2013 ಕಾಯ್ದೆ ಜಾರಿಗೆ ತಂದಿರುತ್ತಾರೆ. ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರದಲ್ಲಿಯೇ ಕಾಯ್ದೆ ಪ್ರಸ್ತುತ ಜಾರಿಯಲ್ಲಿದ್ದು, ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯದಲ್ಲಿರುವ KIADB, K.H.B, NHAI ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಗಳು 2013ರ ಭೂಸ್ವಾಧೀನ ಕಾಯ್ದೆಯನ್ನು ಅನುಸರಿಸಿ ಭೂಸ್ವಾಧೀನಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಂಡು, ಜಮೀನಿನ ರೈತರಿಗೆ ಪರಿಹಾರ, ಪುನರ್ವಸತಿ ನೀಡುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಆದರೆ ಬಿಡಿಎ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆಯು 2013ರ ಕಾಯ್ದೆ ಅನ್ವಯವಾಗುವುದಿಲ್ಲವೆಂದು ಹೇಳುತ್ತಾ, ಬ್ರಿಟಿಷ್ ಕಾಲದ 1894ರ ಭೂ ಸ್ವಾಧೀನ ಕಾಯ್ದೆಯಡಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಯೋಜನೆ ರೂಪಿಸಿ ಪರಿಹಾರ ನೀಡುವುದಾಗಿ ಹೇಳುತ್ತಿದೆ. ಬಿಡಿಎ ರೈತರ ಮೇಲೆ ಧಮನಕಾರಿ ಪ್ರವೃತ್ತಿ ನಡೆಸುತ್ತಿರುವ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಸರ್ಕಾರಕ್ಕೆ ಗೊತ್ತಿದ್ದರೂ ಕೂಡ ರೈತರ ಹಿತಾಸಕ್ತಿ ಕಾಪಾಡದೆ ರಿಯಲ್ ಎಸ್ಟೇಟ್ ದಂಧೆ ಕಡೆ ಗಮನಹರಿಸುತ್ತಿರುವುದು ನಿಮ್ಮ ಸ್ವಾರ್ಥದ ದುರಾಡಳಿತ ಮುಂದುವರಿಸುತ್ತಿರುವುದು ಖಂಡನೀಯ.

ಪೆರಿಪೆರಲ್ ರಿಂಗ್ ರಸ್ತೆ ಈ 19 ವರ್ಷಗಳ ಹಿಂದೆ ಅವಶ್ಯಕತೆ ಇತ್ತಾದರೂ ಈಗ ಅವಶ್ಯಕತೆಯಿಲ್ಲವೆಂಬುದು ಸರ್ಕಾರಕ್ಕೆ ಗೊತ್ತಿದ್ದೂ ಬೇರೆ ಕಾರಣಕ್ಕಾಗಿ ಪಿ.ಆರ್.ಆರ್ ಎಂಬ ಹೆಸರನ್ನು ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಬಿಸಿನೆಸ್ ಕಾರಿಡಾರ್ (ಬಿಬಿಸಿ) ಎಂದು ನಾಮಕರಣ ಮಾಡಿ ಇನ್ನಷ್ಟು ರೈತರನ್ನು ಜಮೀನಿನಿಂದ ಒಕ್ಕಲೆಬ್ಬಿಸಿ ಬಲವಂತವಾಗಿ ಸ್ವಾಧೀನಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಂಡು ರೈತರಿಗೆ ಪುಡಿಗಾಸು ಪರಿಹಾರ ನೀಡಿ, ರೈತ ಕುಟುಂಬಗಳನ್ನು ಬೀದಿಗೆ ತಳ್ಳಿ ಬಹುರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ಕಂಪನಿ, ಉದ್ದಿಮೆಗಳಿಗೆ ಮಾರಾಟ ಮಾಡುವ ಸರ್ಕಾರದ ಹುನ್ನಾರ ಅಡಗಿದೆ. ಹಾಗೂ ಈಗಾಗಲೇ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಗ್ರಾಮಾಂತರ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆ ಸುತ್ತಲೂ STRR NH948A ರಸ್ತೆ ಪೂರ್ಣಗೊಂಡಿದ್ದು ಪಿ.ಆರ್.ಆರ್.ರಸ್ತೆ ಅವಶ್ಯಕತೆ ಇರುವುದಿಲ್ಲ. ಪಿ.ಆರ್.ಆರ್. ಯೋಜನೆಗೆ ಸಂಬಂಧಪಟ್ಟಂತೆ ಭೂಸ್ವಾಧೀನ ಪ್ರಕ್ರಿಯೆಗೆ ಒಳಪಡುವ 65ಕ್ಕೂ ಹೆಚ್ಚು ರೈತರು ಯೋಜನೆಯನ್ನು ಪ್ರಶ್ನಿಸಿ ಮಾನ್ಯ ಸರ್ವೋಚ್ಛ ನ್ಯಾಯಾಲಯ ಹಾಗೂ ಮಾನ್ಯ ಉಚ್ಛನ್ಯಾಯಾಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಪ್ರಕರಣಗಳನ್ನು ದಾಖಲು ಮಾಡಿದ್ದು, ಪ್ರಕರಣಗಳು ವಿಚಾರಣೆ ಹಂತದಲ್ಲಿರುತ್ತವೆ. ಹಾಗೂ ಇತ್ತೀಚೆಗೆ ಮಾನ್ಯ ಸರ್ವೋಚ್ಛ ನ್ಯಾಯಲಯ ಭೂಸ್ವಾಧೀನ ಕಾಯ್ದೆಗಳ ಪರಿಹಾರ ಇತ್ಯಾದಿಗಳ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ನಡೆಯುತ್ತಿರುವ ಪ್ರಕರಣಗಳನ್ನು ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಮಾನ್ಯ ಉಚ್ಚ ನ್ಯಾಯಾಲಯಕ್ಕೆ ವರ್ಗಾಯಿಸಿ ಇತ್ಯರ್ಥಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವಂತೆ ನಿರ್ದೇಶನ ನೀಡಿರುತ್ತದೆ.

ಇಷ್ಟೆಲ್ಲಾ ಮಾಹಿತಿಗಳಿದ್ದರೂ ಸಂಸ್ಥೆ ಬೆಂ.ಅ.ಪ್ರಾ/ಕಾಸ/ಕಾಅ/ಟೆಂಡರ್/ ಪಿಆರ್ಆರ್/210/2023-2024 ರಂತೆ ದಿನಾಂಕ: 25-01-2024ರಂದು ಪ್ರಕಟಣೆ ಹೊರಡಿಸಿ, ಸಾರ್ವಜನಿಕ ಖಾಸಗಿ ಸಹಭಾಗಿತ್ವದಲ್ಲಿ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ನಗರ ಪೆರಿಪೆರಲ್ ರಿಂಗ್ ರಸ್ತೆಯ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿ  ಕಾಮಗಾರಿ ನಡೆಸಲು 2560 ಎಕರೆಗೆ ಟೆಂಡರ್ ಕರೆದಿದ್ದು, ರೈತ ವಿರೋಧಿ ಧೋರಣೆ ಹಾಗೂ ಕಾನೂನುಬಾಹಿರವಾಗಿರುತ್ತದೆ.

ಆದ್ದರಿಂದ ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಾಜ್ಯ ಸರ್ಕಾರ ಈ ಯೋಜನೆಯ ಎಲ್ಲಾ ವಿಷಯಗಳ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಗಮನಹರಿಸಿ ಸಾವಿರಾರು ರೈತ, ದಲಿತ ಕುಟುಂಬಗಳ ಹಿತದೃಷ್ಟಿಯಿಂದ ಈ ಕೂಡಲೇ ಸದರಿ ಟೆಂಡರ್ ಪ್ರಕ್ರಿಯೆಯನ್ನು ತಡೆದು ಜಮೀನಿನ ರೈತರು ಹಾಗೂ ನಿವೇಶನದಾರರಿಗೆ ಕೇಂದ್ರ ಸರ್ಕಾರದ 2013 ಭೂ ಸ್ವಾಧೀನ ಕಾಯ್ದೆಯಂತೆ ‘ಪರಿಹಾರ, ಪುನರ್ವಸತಿ ನೀಡಲು ಘನ ಸರ್ಕಾರದ ಹಂತದಲ್ಲಿ ತೀರ್ಮಾನಿಸಿ, ಘೋಷಣೆ ಮಾಡಿದ ನಂತರ ಯೋಜನೆ ಪ್ರಾರಂಭಿಸುವ ಟೆಂಡರ್ ಪ್ರಕ್ರಿಯೆ ಮುಂದುವರಿಸಿರಿ ಅಥವಾ ಯೋಜನೆ ಕೈಬಿಟ್ಟು ರೈತರ ಹಾಗೂ ನಿವೇಶನಗಳ ಮಾಲೀಕರಿಗೆ NOC ನೀಡಬೇಕೆಂದು ಈ ಮೂಲಕ ತಮ್ಮಲ್ಲಿ ಸಮಿತಿಯು ವಿನಂತಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಸಾಧ್ಯವಾಗದಿದ್ದಲ್ಲಿ ಈ ತಿಂಗಳ 9ನೇ ತಾರೀಖು ಟೆಂಡರ್ ವಿರೋಧಿಸಿ ಬಿಡಿಎ ಕಛೇರಿ ಮುಂದೆ ಚಳುವಳಿ ಮಾಡಲಾಗುವುದು ಎಂದು ಪ್ರೆಸ್ ಕ್ಲಬ್ ಆಫ್ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರ್ ನಲ್ಲಿ ನಡೆದ ಪತ್ರಿಕಾ ಗೋಷ್ಠಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಸಂಘದ ವತಿಯಿಂದ ತಿಳಿಸಲಾಯಿತು.

City Today News 9341997936

Memorandum to the Prime Minister Signed by Lakhs of Workers

Posted on by City Today News (City today.media)
Press meet held at Press Club of Bangalore

There is no amendment to the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972 for the past 50years. As per the present Payment of Gratuity Act, workers are getting 15days’ wages per year of service as Gratuity. Only the basic wage and dearnessallowance of the workers are considered for the calculation of payment ofgratuity. As you are well aware that the majority of the workers engaged forwork in Unorganised Sector are getting very low wages and naturally theirabasic wages and dearness allowance together will be always low. As such, asper the present act, they are getting very low amount of Gratuity at the timeof their retirement. This low amount of Gratuity will not help the workers ofunorganised sector in any way to make out a decent retired life. Wherefore, itis necessary to bring an amendment to the Payment of Gratuity Act.

At present Rs.21,000-00 is fixed as wage limit for the coverage of ESI scheme.As such a large section of workers are out of ESI scheme and they are facinglot of hardship for meeting the expenses for any kind of sickness. Workerswho are out of coverage of ESI scheme are covered under private medicalainsurance schemes. One has to get admitted in hospital for 24 hours to claimthe insurance amount for treatment under private medical insurance scheme.Parents of the workers are not covered under private Mediclaim policies.Treatment is given for only selected diseases. Workers are not getting wagebenefits for sickness under private medical schemes. Compensation Benefitsfor employment injury and loss of earning power are not there in privatemedical insurance schemes. Treatment is given only for fixed insured sum,whereas, under ESI scheme, treatment is given for the whole family includingparents of the workers and for all diseases, and also, employees are gettingleave wages for the sickness period including lifetime pension foremployment injuries and death. There is a lobby between private insurancefirms and the private hospitals, and the private hospitals swindle moneyfrom the employees in the guise of mediclaim policies. Employees StateInsurance Scheme is considered as one of the best Social Security Scheme inthe world. As such it is necessary to remove the wage limit for the coverage of ESI scheme, so that all the employees will get health and other related benefits.

Due to Contract Labour System, there are no permanent jobs nowadays in the manufacturing sector and service industry. As per law, contract labourers are not permitted to be engaged for production work of permanent nature, but the present law is thrown to the winds and contract labourers are engaged for all sorts of production works of permanent nature and also not paid wages equal to the wages paid to permanent workers as per the Contract Labour (Abolition & Regulation) Act. Contract labourers are paid very low wages and none of the statutory benefits is extended to them. Contract labourers are working forblow wages due to extreme poverty and they are subjected to lot of exploitation.
As such it is necessary to ban the contract labour system.

As such our union is carrying out a Signature campaign by lakhs of workersfor the following demands which will be submitted to the Hon’ble PrimeMinister of India:

* Instead of 15 days’ wages per year of service, 60 days’ wages peryear of service to be paid as Gratuity by bringing an amendment tothe Payment of Gratuity Act.

* Wage limit to be removed for the coverage of ESI Scheme

* Contract Labour System to be abolished.

Amendments to the Acts for the above demands are to be carried out by theCentral Government. Our union has sent letters to all the Parliament Membersand Rajya Sabha Members of Karnataka requesting them to raise this issue inthe Parliament. We have requested all central trade unions to urge the centralgovernment for the fulfilment of above demands.

Our union urges the Hon’ble Prime Minister to consider the memorandumasigned by lakhs of workers and to take suitable action for fulfilment of abovedemands for the benefit of working class of the whole nation.

At press club of Bangalore the above all statements were released on behalf of Karnataka Wotkers’ Union(R)  by E. K. N. RAJAN-General secretary, R. D. Melchior-Jt. Secretary.

City Today News 9341997936