Hyderabad: Labour, Employment and Mines Minister Dr. G. Vivek Venkatswamy had announced that the Telangana government would institute the P. Janardhan Reddy Lifetime Achievement Awards to honour distinguished persons in the labour sector.
The PJR Awards announced by the government will be presented annually on May Day. The Minister made the announcement during May Day celebrations held at Ravindra Bharathi.
He said the awards recognised the lifelong struggle of late P. Janardhan Reddy. He added that Reddy had consistently fought for workers, labourers and oppressed sections during his political career.
The decision followed a representation submitted by former MLC Ramulu Nayak. Therefore, the government directed the Labour Commissioner to frame detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria. The awards will be conferred starting from May Day next year.
PJR Awards announced with annual May Day honour
On the occasion, Vivek Venkatswamy also presented the Shrama Shakti Awards. Prominent trade union leaders, workers and management representatives received these honours.
The awards recognised organisations that implemented labour laws effectively. They also honoured labour leaders who made strong contributions to workers’ rights.
More than 100 awardees received the Shrama Shakti Awards. They expressed gratitude to the Minister and the state government for the recognition.
Meanwhile, the Minister extended financial assistance to families of two deceased gig workers. This step fulfilled an assurance given by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.
A cheque of ₹5 lakh each was handed over to the families of delivery personnel Garlapati Shashidhar Reddy and Dharavath Mahesh. Both workers had lost their lives while on duty.
The Minister appreciated Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union leader Shaik Salauddin. He said Salauddin had actively pursued the issue and ensured compensation reached the affected families.
PJR Awards announced alongside welfare measures
During the same programme, Vivek Venkatswamy released a booklet titled “Achievements and Activities Report.” The publication highlighted key initiatives of the Labour, Employment, Training, Factories and Boilers departments.
It detailed major achievements and ongoing activities across these sectors. It also outlined future priorities and policy suggestions for strengthening them further.
The May Day event combined labour recognition, welfare support and policy direction. The PJR Awards announced at the programme introduced a new annual recognition for contributions to labour rights.