Government of Karnataka Announces Unorganised Workers Social Security (Karnataka) (Amendment) Rules, 2024

In a move to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of social security for unorganized workers, the Government of Karnataka on December 3^rd 2024, has issued a notification amending the Unorganized Workers Social Security (Karnataka) Rules 2009.

The new rules may be called Unorganised Workers Social Security (Karnataka) (Amendment) Rules, 2024

Key Changes Introduced in the Amendment:

1. Insertion of New Rule 13: Annual Report Requirement
   A significant addition to the rules is Rule 13 is inserted after rule 12, that elaborates Registration of Unorganised Workers, which mandates the Board to lay an annual report before the State Legislature. The report will cover the operations of the Board for the preceding year ending on March 31st. It must be presented as soon as possible after its preparation, but no later than December 31st of each year.

The report should include:

1. Annual Budget Allocated
2. Expenditure Details
3. Schemes Description (Short Overview)
4. Progress on Schemes (Both Financial and Physical)
5. Other Activities Taken by the Board

Additionally, the report must be accompanied by audited copies of accounts and the auditor’s report to ensure complete transparency and accountability.

2. Insertion of New Form IV: Annual Report Format
   Along with the new rule, Form IV has been introduced In the said rules, after Form III (Age Certificate issued by the Doctor). This form will be used to submit the Annual Report and will require details such as:
   • Annual Budget and Expenditure
   • Description and Progress of Schemes
   • Balance Sheet
   • Income and Expenditure Statements
   • Audit Notes

The new form will ensure that the report is comprehensive and includes both financial and physical progress of the schemes and activities implemented by the Board.

Objective of the Amendment:

The primary aim of this amendment is to ensure that the activities and financial management of the Unorganized Workers Social Security Board are transparent and subject to scrutiny. By requiring an annual report to be laid before the State Legislature, the government seeks to enhance public trust and ensure that the welfare schemes for unorganized workers are being effectively implemented.

Effective Date : December 3^rd 2024