240 workplace accidents in 2024 led to 400+ deaths, 850 injuries; real toll likely higher due to under-reporting in key sectors like mining, energy
* Unsafe workplaces impact worker productivity
* Mental stress among workers exacerbates the issue
* Poor safety records deter potential investors, stalling industrial growth
Informal sector employs 83% of India’s workforce; lack of benefits, health rights, and oversight fuels unsafe practices and exploitation
Low-paid, unskilled workers face severe injuries; women operate hazardous machinery at lower wages; education and income impact safety outcomes
Work injury compensation remains inadequate; ESIC cards issued post-accident. 2020 OSH Code may worsen oversight by raising factory scrutiny thresholds
India needs stricter safety regulations and labour reforms prioritising worker welfare to build a safe workforce for its global manufacturing hub ambitions