About 200 million people in India are taking part in a nationwide two-day strike at the call of a number of national trade unions and left-wing movements, Times of India reported. 

The protesters put forward slogans demanding higher minimum wages and pensions in various industries, improving social conditions, jobs for unemployed youth among others.

The strikers accuse the central government of refusing to protect the interests of the workers. Some peasant and farmer associations joined the action.

Protesters block the railways and highways in a number of regions of the country.

The strike may affect the work of urban, intercity and railway transport, the banking sector, insurance companies, and telecommunications. In some areas, schools and other educational institutions are being closed. Many shops and offices are closed in some cities.