International Labor Day also known as May Day or Workers’ Day, is celebrated every year on May 1 across the world. This day is dedicated to the hard-working people who build countries, societies and allies. The theme of International Labour Day 2025 is – “Ensuring health, safety and dignity for every worker”, which emphasizes that health, safety and dignity should be the biggest responsibility of the society
History of International Labor Day
International Labor Day started in 1886 in Chicago, America, when thousands of workers demonstrated for the right to 8 hours of work. This movement took place in Haymarket Square, Chicago, which was later called Haymarket Affair. After this incident, May 1 was recognized as International Labor Day.
In India, Labor Day was first celebrated in Chennai on May 1, 1923, which was started by Indian trade union leader Kamran Pillai.
Importance of Labor Day in Today’s Time
When we celebrate International Labor Day 2025, it is not just a holiday – but a day to reflect on whether workers in today’s era are getting the rights, health facilities and respect they deserve?
- Is every worker getting a safe workplace?
- Are they getting health insurance and medical facilities?
- Is their work violating their human rights?
All these questions make this day even more important.
Health: Basic Right of Laborers
Health has been given top priority in the theme of International Labor Day 2025. A laborer works hard all day, amid the sun, dust and heavy machines, so it is most important to maintain his physical and mental health.
Important Health Initiatives:
- Regular health checkups
- Occupational health insurance
- Mental health support at the workplace
- Clean drinking water and hygiene
Many employees work in areas where there is neither clean drinking water, nor toilets nor first aid facilities. This is a major threat to their health.
Safety: Every worker’s right
Every employee should get a safe workplace. Be it a construction site, factory or farm – safety gear, training and emergency protocols are a must everywhere.
Important Safety Measures:
- Use of helmets, gloves, safety shoes
- Proper training on machines
- First aid kit at the workplace
- Emergency plan for fire and disaster
According to the 2024 report, thousands of workers in India are injured or killed in workplace accidents every year, most of which are due to lack of safety gear.
Dignity: Social respect and honour
Workers are not just “labour force”, they are also human beings. It is our moral duty to respect them, pay them on time and appreciate their work.
Aspects of dignity:
- Timely wages
- Social security (PF, pension)
- Work without discrimination
- Respect for workers’ opinions
Many times we take the people working in our homes – like drivers, maids, guards – for granted. International Labour Day reminds us that every work, whether small or big, deserves respect.
Labour rights in the digital age
Today even in the digital age gig workers (like delivery boys, cab drivers etc.) are a new kind of worker, but they do not get the benefits of traditional labour laws.
International Labour Day 2025 is a good opportunity to talk about the rights of these new workers:
- Are they getting medical facilities too?
- Is their work safe?
- Do they get any legal aid?
Policymakers need to seriously consider these questions.
Government and NGO Initiatives
The Government of India has launched many schemes that are useful for laborers:
- Ayushman Bharat Yojana
- E-Shram Portal
- Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-Dhan Yojana
Along with this, many NGOs are also working to provide health and education to laborers in slums and rural India.
Labor Day 2025: What can we do?
Treat the laborers working around you with respect.
Give them health information and help.
If there are unsafe working conditions, inform the authorities.
Share workers’ stories on social media using #InternationalLabourDay.
Conclusion
International Labour Day 2025 is not just a date — it is a reminder of the struggle, dignity and empowerment of workers. If we want a healthy, safe and prosperous society, we must give our workers what they really deserve – health, safety and respect.