Tens of millions of workers in India are on a day-long strike demanding higher wages and to protest against the government's economic reforms.

Banks, government offices and factories are shut, while public transport is also disrupted in parts of the country.

The government says the reforms are needed to bolster the economy.

But trade unions say the government has not addressed the demands of the workers in banking, telecommunication and manufacturing industries.

They also oppose a government directive to state-run pension funds to put more money into stock markets.

(BBC)