Question

A worker in an urban area, who was working in a small factory, was not paid his wages properly; he was forced to work extra hours under poor working conditions, and there was no job security. Recently he lost his job and was found selling electrical items in a pushcart. Analyse the role of the government in protecting the workers working in an unorganised sector.

Answer 1

The given case highlights the challenges faced by workers in the unorganised sector, such as irregular wages, long working hours, unsafe working conditions, lack of job security, and sudden unemployment. The role of the government in protecting these workers is crucial.

1. Implementation of Labour Laws: The government should ensure that minimum wage laws and limits on working hours are strictly enforced, even in small factories and informal establishments.

2. Social Security Schemes: The government should expand schemes like Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana, Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESIS), and e-Shram portal to cover unorganised workers and provide benefits like pensions, medical care, and accident insurance.

3. Monitoring and Inspections: Labour inspectors should regularly visit small and informal enterprises to check for violations of worker rights and working conditions.

4. Legal Protection: Workers in the unorganised sector must be given access to legal aid and redressal mechanisms to complain about exploitation or non-payment of wages.

5. Skill Development and Employment Opportunities: The government can also provide vocational training and support for self-employment to help workers transition to better jobs or sustainable small businesses.