Over 430 Odisha migrant workers lost lives outside state since 2019: Minister in Assembly

Odisha Labour Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia informed the State Assembly on Wednesday that 432 migrant workers from Odisha have died while working outside the state between 2019 and 2025. 

Responding to a question by Rayagada MLA Kadraka Appala Swamy, Singhkhuntia stated that the state government has brought back the bodies of the deceased workers from outside Odisha and extended financial support to their families. 

According to the reply, families from 14 highly migration-prone districts have been provided financial assistance of up to Rs 15 lakh while families in 16 other districts received up to Rs 5 lakh.

He further said that necessary support measures have been taken for the dependents of the deceased workers, and that the state government is making efforts to strengthen systems for the welfare of the migrant labourers.

The issue has sparked concern among members, who called for stronger safety mechanisms, better tracking systems, and increased employment opportunities within Odisha to reduce dependency on outside migration.

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The government assured that further steps will be taken to protect migrant workers and assist families who have suffered losses.