Question

Discuss the problems of the laborers of the unorganised sector.

Hint:

To improve the lives of unorganised sector workers, we need strong legal protections , access to social security , and the promotion of worker organisation .

Answer 1

Problems of Laborers in the Unorganised Sector:
The unorganised sector in India includes workers who are not covered by formal labor laws, working conditions, or benefits. This sector is vast, including workers in industries such as construction , agriculture , domestic work , street vending , and small-scale manufacturing . These workers face numerous challenges that hinder their well-being and development.
1. Precarious Working Conditions :
- Workers in the unorganised sector are often subjected to poor working conditions with no social security or safety measures. Many workers work long hours without adequate breaks or proper facilities like clean drinking water, sanitation, or safety equipment. - The absence of labor contracts or official documentation leaves workers vulnerable to exploitation and makes it difficult for them to claim their rights .
2. Low Wages and Income Insecurity :
- Workers in this sector are often paid low wages that do not meet the minimum wage standards set by the government. Many are paid daily wages , which can be inconsistent and unpredictable, leading to income insecurity . - Since these workers do not have regular contracts, they are not entitled to benefits like paid leave , health insurance , or pension plans , which makes their financial stability more precarious.
3. Lack of Legal Protection :
- Most workers in the unorganised sector lack access to basic labor rights , including the right to form trade unions , negotiate for better wages, or demand safe working conditions . - The labor laws in India mostly cover workers in the organised sector , leaving those in the unorganised sector without adequate legal protection.
4. Health and Safety Risks :
- Many laborers in the unorganised sector, such as construction workers and domestic helpers , are exposed to hazardous working conditions that put their health and safety at risk. For example, construction workers may face fall accidents , lung diseases due to exposure to dust, and chemical exposure . - There are no mechanisms in place for compensation if workers are injured or fall ill on the job.
5. Lack of Access to Social Security and Benefits :
- Unorganised sector workers do not have access to government-sponsored social security schemes like pension , healthcare , or unemployment benefits . - The lack of social welfare means that these workers and their families are highly vulnerable to economic and health crises.
6. Social Exclusion and Discrimination :
- Workers in the unorganised sector often face social exclusion and discrimination , especially those from marginalized communities like Dalits , Scheduled Tribes , and women . - These workers are often excluded from mainstream society and face stigmatization and disrespect for the work they do. Measures to Improve the Condition of Laborers in the Unorganised Sector:
- Legal Reforms :
The government must create better legal protections for workers in the unorganised sector, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to social security . - Organizing Workers :
Encouraging the formation of unions and associations can give workers in the unorganised sector a platform to voice their grievances, negotiate better wages, and demand better working conditions.