From Factory Floor to Film: Why Garment Kelsa Matters
Over the past few months, Garment Kelsa – Women and Work has been screened in a variety of spaces,...
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Topic: Minimum wage
Proposed Revision Of Minimum Wage in Karnataka: Time to implement a Need-Based Minimum Wage?
A proposed revision to raise Karnataka’s minimum wage to ₹20,000 reignites the debate on what truly constitutes a fair, need-based wage. Drawing from decades of legal and policy frameworks, this article examines how far current wages—especially in the state’s garment sector—fall short of established norms, and why it’s time to bridge the gap between principle and practice.
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Respect Over Rupees: How One Garment Factory Prioritised Workers (and Earned Their Loyalty)
In a world of fast fashion and high turnover, Namasthe Garments defied the odds. For over 40 years, workers here stitched together not just garments, but a life of dignity. Respectful treatment, achievable targets, and a supportive management nurtured a loyal workforce, even with minimum wage salaries. Now, as the factory shuts down, its legacy of prioritizing people over profits remains an inspiration. This story explores the unique culture Namasthe cultivated, and the impact it had on the lives of its workers.
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The Rise of Garment Worker Leaders in Bengaluru
A Cividep-Azim Premji Foundation program empowered Bengaluru garment workers. Over three years, 600 workers gained leadership and communication skills, enabling them to fight for better pay, working conditions, and healthcare. Worker Resource Centers provided support and education, fostering solidarity and replacing fear with confidence. This program not only created leaders but also improved mental wellbeing through access to counselling.
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What’s In The 2023 Field Diary? Worker Stories of Struggles & Hope
A roundup of Cividep 2023 field diary stories that provide a glance into worker lives with bite-sized stories from the factory, household, worker communities, and more.
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