Amid its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, Israel's construction sector confronts a significant shortage of labor, leading the government under Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership to seek assistance from India. Following the successful recruitment of numerous construction workers from Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to Israel, additional states, including Mizoram, Telangana, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Himachal Pradesh, have formally requested the central government to organize similar recruitment initiatives.
In recent weeks, a delegation of 15 members from Israel arrived in India to hire construction workers from various regions across the country. Recruitment efforts in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana garnered considerable interest, with a total of 7182 candidates from Uttar Pradesh and 1370 from Haryana undergoing the selection process. Of these, 5087 from Uttar Pradesh and 530 from Haryana successfully completed the rigorous seven-day selection process.
It is projected that if 5000 workers secure employment in Israel for five years, remittances back to India could amount to approximately Rs 5,000 crore.
In the aftermath of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, many Palestinians have had their work permits revoked, prompting Tel Aviv to seek Indian laborers to address the ensuing shortage.
Ajay Kumar Raina, Chief Operating Officer of NSDC International, emphasized the existence of a government-to-government agreement between India and Israel for the recruitment of approximately 10,000 construction workers from India. Raina highlighted the proactive steps taken by Haryana and Uttar Pradesh in facilitating this process.
In support of this initiative, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has established a dedicated office for post-placement services, ensuring comprehensive assistance and support for individuals participating in the program. Raina expressed optimism about the successful implementation of the agreement and its potential positive outcomes for both nations.
The selection process involves rigorous screening, including medical examinations, police clearances, visa processing, and passport verification. Successful candidates are expected to depart for Israel within 30 days of their selection.
The offered job positions include Bar Bender, Mason, Tiler, and Stuttering Carpenter, with a competitive monthly salary of approximately Rs 1.37 lakh, in addition to benefits such as medical insurance, accommodation, food, and a monthly bonus of Rs 16,515.
Last year, India signed a bilateral agreement with Israel to send 42,000 Indian workers, including those in construction and nursing, to Israel.
