1. Nationwide Strike on July 9
More than 25 crore workers across India are expected to participate in a general strike called on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, under the banner of Bharat Bandh.

2. Sectors Affected
The strike will impact key public service sectors including banking, insurance, coal mining, postal services, and construction, leading to significant disruption in day-to-day operations.

3. Call by Trade Unions
The protest has been organized by a coalition of 10 central trade unions along with their state and sectoral affiliates to oppose the government’s recent policies.

4. Reason for Protest
The unions have accused the central government of promoting “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and anti-national pro-corporate policies”, neglecting the interests of the common people.

5. Statement by Amarjeet Kaur
Amarjeet Kaur from the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) stated that more than 25 crore workers, farmers, and rural workers will join the strike across the country.

6. Preparations in Full Swing
Both formal and informal sector unions are preparing to ensure the success of the strike, urging maximum participation to make the movement impactful nationwide.

7. Key Demands
Demands include employment generation, filling sanctioned vacancies, higher wages for MGNREGA workers, and a similar job scheme for urban workers, among others.

8. Criticism of ELI Scheme
The unions have criticized the government’s Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, claiming it prioritizes incentives for employers over job creation for the unemployed.