Section 84: Registration and Functioning of Employment Exchanges

Overview

Section 84 of the Code on Social Security, 2020, doesn’t directly deal with a specific social security benefit like Provident Fund or ESI. Instead, it focuses on improving access to employment opportunities. It modernizes the traditional employment exchange system to facilitate job matching, career guidance, and maintain a robust database of job seekers and vacancies. This indirectly supports social security by enabling individuals to secure livelihoods and contribute to social security schemes.

Who is Covered?

• This section applies to all job seekers and employers across India. There are no specific classes of employees or establishments excluded.
• Eligibility for utilizing the services of employment exchanges/career centers is open to all citizens seeking employment, regardless of their employment history or wage levels.

Benefits and Contributions

• Benefits for Job Seekers: Access to job listings, career counseling, skill development information, and assistance with resume building.
• Benefits for Employers: Access to a pool of potential candidates, assistance with recruitment processes, and information on available government employment schemes.
• Contributions: This section does *not* involve financial contributions from employers, employees, or the government in the traditional sense. The funding and operational costs of employment exchanges/career centers are managed by the government.

Procedure and Compliance

The government is empowered to establish and regulate employment exchanges or career service centers. Job seekers can register with these centers, often online through integrated portals. Employers are encouraged to register vacancies with these centers. The centers will maintain digital records, including Aadhaar-linked profiles, to facilitate efficient matching of job seekers with suitable opportunities. Compliance primarily rests with the government in ensuring the effective functioning of these centers and maintaining accurate data.

Practical Examples

• Example 1: A recent graduate, Priya, registers on the national career portal linked to an employment exchange. The system matches her skills and qualifications with a vacancy at a local IT company. She successfully applies and secures a job.
• Example 2: An employer, XYZ Corporation, fails to notify vacancies to the employment exchange as required by regulations. While there isn't a direct financial penalty specified in Section 84, repeated non-compliance could lead to scrutiny under other relevant labor laws and potentially affect their eligibility for certain government schemes.

Disclaimer

This article is for basic understanding of the Code on Social Security, 2020, and Section 84 specifically. It should not be treated as legal advice. Consult with a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.