Status of Women in Unorganized Sector

Status of Women in Unorganized Sector

Explore a detailed Ph.D. thesis on the status of women in the unorganized sector, analyzing their socio-economic challenges and working conditions.

This in-depth study explores the critical role and socio-economic status of women in the unorganized sector, a vital yet often overlooked segment of the Indian economy. The research, conducted by Dr. Sandhya Rani under the guidance of Dr. B.R. SASTRY, provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges, working conditions, and livelihoods of women engaged in informal labor.

As the unorganized sector constitutes a major part of the nation’s workforce, understanding the specific vulnerabilities of its female participants is essential for equitable development and policy-making.

The informal or unorganized sector is characterized by a lack of legal protection, absence of social security benefits,

and precarious employment conditions. For millions of women, it is the only available source of income, driven by factors such as poverty, lack of formal education, and household responsibilities.

This research delves into the lives of these women, offering valuable insights into their daily struggles and contributions.

Core Objectives of the Research

The primary goal of this thesis is to meticulously evaluate the status of women in the unorganized sector. To achieve this, the study was guided by several key objectives:

• To analyze the detailed socio-economic background of the female workforce in this sector.
• To thoroughly examine their working conditions, including hours, safety, and environment.
• To assess their wage structures, income levels, and overall financial stability.
• To identify the multifaceted problems—both at the workplace and within the household—faced by these women.
• To propose actionable, remedial measures to government and non-governmental bodies for the upliftment and empowerment of these workers.

Research Methodology and Scope

This investigation is an empirical study grounded in both primary and secondary data. The research was geographically focused on the Warangal district, providing a specific regional context to a widespread national issue.

Data Collection and Sampling

A significant sample size of 300 women workers was selected for the study to ensure comprehensive data. The sample was carefully stratified to represent three key occupations within the unorganized sector:

• 100 Beedi Workers
• 100 Construction Workers
• 100 Domestic Maids

A purposive sampling technique was employed to select respondents, and data was collected through a structured interview schedule. This direct approach allowed for the gathering of firsthand accounts and nuanced details about their lives and work.

Key Findings and Analysis

The research uncovers the harsh realities faced by women in the unorganized sector. A vast majority of the respondents were found to be illiterate and belonged to socially and economically marginalized communities. The compulsion to work was overwhelmingly linked to acute poverty and the need to support their families’ survival.

The study highlights that these women are often confined to low-paying, labor-intensive jobs with minimal opportunity for skill development or career progression. Their wages are not only meager but also frequently fall below the legally mandated minimum wage.

Furthermore, they endure long and irregular working hours without the safety net of social security benefits like pensions, health insurance, or maternity leave.

The workplace environment is often unsafe and unhygienic, leading to a high prevalence of occupational health issues.

The research also sheds light on the widespread exploitation and harassment these women face, compounded by a lack of effective grievance redressal mechanisms.

Despite their critical economic contributions to their households, their work remains largely unrecognized and undervalued, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and disempowerment.

The study concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for policy interventions, including the strict enforcement of labor laws, the extension of social security schemes, and the promotion of skill development initiatives and self-help groups to improve the lives of these vulnerable workers.

Sources & Thesis Details

Title: A STUDY ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN IN UNORGANIZED SECTOR
Researcher: Dr. Sandhya Rani
Supervisor/Guide: Dr. B.R. SASTRY
Year of Completion: 2013
Institution: KAKATIYA UNIVERSITY