New Delhi, Apr 10 (KNN) The Centre is considering the expansion of subsidised community kitchens to key manufacturing clusters as part of a broader strategy to retain migrant workers and stabilise labour supply in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Plan To Support MSME Workforce
The proposal, discussed at a recent meeting led by the Finance Ministry, comes amid early signs of reverse migration triggered by rising living costs and fuel-related disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia crisis, reported The Mint.
Under the plan, community kitchens, already operational in several states, will be extended to industrial hubs, with the possibility of setting up new facilities in collaboration with state governments, industry bodies and social organisations. These kitchens are expected to provide subsidised meals to workers, helping ease cost-of-living pressures.
The move is aimed at ensuring continuity in labour availability across vulnerable MSME clusters, including ceramics in Morbi, textiles in Tiruppur and Surat, forging units in Ludhiana, and glass manufacturing in Firozabad.
Relief Measures Under Consideration
Officials indicated that the government is also examining additional support measures such as assured cooking gas supply and credit support for MSMEs, with a relief package likely to be considered by the Union Cabinet soon.
The initiative follows concerns raised by industry bodies over potential labour shortages due to fuel supply constraints and rising costs, which have already begun impacting MSME operations in several regions.
India’s MSME sector, which contributes over 30 percent to GDP and accounts for a significant share of manufacturing output and exports, remains highly dependent on migrant labour, making workforce stability critical for sustaining industrial activity.
Industry representatives have welcomed the proposal, noting that access to affordable food could help prevent worker outmigration and support continuous operations in manufacturing clusters during periods of economic stress.
(KNN Bureau)
