Confused About Labor License Requirements for Small Contractors in West Bengal? Let's Discuss!

I have been posted at a regional office (office for the entire district) in West Bengal. The problem is the Corporate office is asking us to get all the contractors to obtain a labor license. However, we do have contractors with fewer than 10 laborers. The company still wants them to get a license too. I am getting confused since it is clearly mentioned in the Contract Labor (R&A) Act that contractors having fewer than 10 laborers need not obtain a license. Can someone please clear up my confusion?

Regards,
P. Sengupta

It is true that only contractors who engage 20 workers are required to take a license. However, at the same time, engaging contractors with contract labor licenses is safe for the company. Therefore, you can fill out Form V, stating that you propose to engage 20 workmen through the contractor to whom it is issued. With that, the contractor can obtain the license. It is immaterial whether you engage that much contract labor through the said contractor.

Regards,
Madhu.T.K