A Glance Into The Lives Of Workers With Bite-Sized Stories From Factories, Homes & Communities. In this edition of the Field Diary column, discover how Cividep India and its partner organisations helped nearly 100 garment workers through capacity-building initiatives, supported a worker in confronting her supervisor, assisted 12 workers in overcoming financial crises, and mediated a crucial case where Rs. 5 lakh in unpaid wages were recovered
Workers As Trainers: Imagine a room full of garment workers, not just learning their rights but leading the conversation. That’s exactly what happened during a training session (in pic left) on the Minimum Wages Act (1948), where workers not only learned about their entitlements but also took on roles as trainers. Guided by field officers and experts, worker leaders shared their personal stories, creating a space where knowledge felt real and relatable. As they co-facilitated sessions, their confidence soared. These sessions went beyond the legal aspects — they helped develop a sense of solidarity, encouraged open discussions on challenges, and helped raise awareness about the gender issues, contributing to a more informed and supportive workforce.
Support That Makes a Difference: When workplace challenges hit, the Workers Resource Centres (WRCs) run by Cividep across south India are there with more than just advice — they offer solutions at times. Recently, 25 garment workers turned to WRCs for guidance on issues like unfair production targets and harassment. One standout story is of a garment worker, who, after receiving support from Cividep’s partner organisation Munnade Social Organisation, stood up to her supervisor who had unfairly doubled her target. After counselling, she had learnt to pushed back — and won. Abuse and harassment-free factories might be the norm but small wins like these help workers shore up their confidence.
Securing the Future: When unexpected expenses arise, Cividep and its partners try to ensure that workers don’t face them alone. Recently, the APF contingency fund provided critical financial aid to 12 workers, covering medical emergencies and education costs. But financial support isn’t just about the here and now — it’s about building a more secure future. WRCs have been key in helping workers access social security benefits, with 20 workers successfully applying for government scholarships for their children. With worker leaders spreading the word, these efforts are helping secure long-term financial stability and greater access to benefits.
Fighting for Fair Wages: When workers are denied what they are owed, Cividep’s India Labourline (ILL) team based out of Chennai steps in. After persistent legal advocacy and police mediation, they secured ₹5 lakh in unpaid wages for 14 security guards. The team also reached out to migrant workers in Tamil Nadu’s Thiruvallur district, including those from West Bengal and Odisha. Through factory visits and community meetings, they ensure that support reaches those workers away from city centres.
Missing Awareness: Did you know that many workers aren’t fully aware of the social security benefits they are entitled to? A Cividep team recently attempted to tackle this gap by hosting an awareness session (in pic) on the Employee Provident Fund (EPF) Act. With 84 participants from the leather footwear sector, led by an EPF officer from Vellore, Tamil Nadu, the training covered key worker rights and how to navigate the grievance process. For many, it was a revelation—discovering benefits they had no idea they were missing out on.
(Updates: Preethi Gowda, Kaliyaperumal Narayanan, Gokulavasan Perumal)