ISMW

ISMW – Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act:

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ISMW stands for the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979.

This law protects workers who are recruited in one state and employed in another state.

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It is implemented by the Labour Department through state mechanisms, under the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act framework.

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Who is an Inter-State Migrant Worker?

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A worker is covered under ISMW if:

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• Recruited from one state

• Works in another state

• Employed through:

  • Contractor, or

  • Employer/establishment

• Applicable when 5 or more inter-state migrant workers are employed

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Where ISMW Applies:

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• Construction sites

• Factories

• Manufacturing units

• Infrastructure projects

• Any establishment employing inter-state labour

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 ISMW REGISTRATION – WHO MUST REGISTER?

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Employer / Principal Employer:

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• Must register the establishment

• Must ensure migrant workers are registered

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Contractor:

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• Must obtain ISMW License

• Maintain worker records

• Issue employment card to workers

Workers themselves do not apply for ISMW registration

👉 Responsibility lies with employer / contractor

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Rights & Benefits of ISMW Workers:

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Wages & Allowances:

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• Equal wages as local workers

• Displacement allowance

• Journey allowance (to & fro native state)

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Welfare & Safety:

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• Medical facilities

• Protective equipment

• Housing & drinking water

• First-aid & safety measures

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Legal Protection:

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• Employment card

• Passbook with work details

• No illegal deductions

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Fees & Validity:

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• Registration / license validity: 1 year

• Renewable annually

• Fees & security deposit vary by state

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Penalties for Non-Compliance:

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• Fine on employer / contractor

• Cancellation of license

• Prosecution under labour laws

• Work stoppage in serious cases​

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