New Delhi, July 23
The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), India's largest labour organisation, marked its 70th Foundation Day with a resounding call for reflection, unity, and transformation at a grand ceremony in New Delhi on Wednesday.
The year-long celebration, culminating at the Indira Gandhi Stadium's KD Jadhav Wrestling Hall, gathered thousands of workers, dignitaries, and leaders from across the nation, including Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak, Dr Mohan Bhagwat, and Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
Dr Mohan Bhagwat underscored the BMS journey as a movement "powered by values and vision," highlighting how founder Dattopant Thengadi's ideals faced scepticism in the early days but now stand vindicated after decades of determined effort. He reflected on the importance of aligning organisational systems with values, drawing from anecdotes about the BMS's formative years and its evolution into a platform that champions Parishram (hard work) as a core virtue.
Bhagwat addressed the challenges ahead, notably the impact of technological transformation on the workforce. He stressed the need to adapt technology to serve society and labour, without diminishing the dignity of Shram (labour). He called on the BMS to balance labour, industrial, and national interests as new technologies reshape employment and work culture.
Union Minister Mandaviya praised BMS for its distinctive ethos, stating that while many labour movements focus on protest, BMS focuses on nation-building. He noted the BMS's leadership during the COVID-19 crisis and its role in restoring dignity to India's workforce.
Ravindra Himte, BMS General Secretary, recounted the union's steadfast commitment to collective decision-making and highlighted mass outreach initiatives, such as the 'Shramik Sampark Abhiyan' and women's and youth conferences. These efforts, he said, have strengthened grassroots engagement and furthered the BMS mission of integrating national, industrial, and labour interests.
BMS President Hiranmay Pandya described the anniversary as a milestone to chart the future. He emphasised the union's impressive growth--active across 30 regions, gaining annual recognition for over 150 unions, and achieving significant female representation at the ILO. He maintained that BMS is more than a trade union; it is an ideological movement devoted to nation-building and worker empowerment.
The event also saw the launch of the 'E-Karyakarta' digital app to enhance internal communications, the screening of a documentary on BMS's legacy, and the release of the special 'Laborious Resetting' edition of Organiser Weekly.
BMS leaders reiterated their commitment to principles enshrined in Bharatiya tradition: dignified labour and just rewards, regardless of sector or background. As V. Bhagaiah and Indu Jamwal noted, BMS's message, "Workers, Unite the World," signals a uniquely Indian perspective that values both collaboration and accountability.
The celebrations included the felicitation of veteran activists and international participation from a Nepalese delegation, reflecting BMS's growing global stature. The event reached a wider audience through live telecasts at 110 locations nationwide.
Seventy years after its humble beginnings, BMS stands as a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and visionary leadership. As it sets sights on BMS@100, the organisation pledges to continue leading constructive, inclusive change for workers, industries, and the nation. This milestone renews its mission: not just to champion workers' rights, but to unite and uplift society through enduring values and forward-thinking action.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate BMS's work, I wish they'd address the growing informal sector more aggressively. 70 years is impressive, but 90% of our workforce is still unorganized. The digital app is a good start though!
As an expat working in India, I'm impressed by how BMS balances traditional values with modern challenges. Their approach to technology adaptation while preserving worker dignity could be a model for labor movements worldwide.
Thengadi ji's vision of 'Shramev Jayate' is more relevant than ever in today's gig economy. BMS's focus on women and youth participation shows they're evolving with the times. More power to our workers! 💪
As a woman factory worker, I've personally benefited from BMS's training programs. But we need more female leaders at decision-making levels. The 70th year should mark this change!
The COVID response mentioned here is no exaggeration. When our small unit was struggling, BMS volunteers arranged ration and medical help within hours. They walk the talk when it comes to worker welfare.
Hope BMS now focuses on upskilling workers for Industry 4.0
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