Question

Who are the most vulnerable people and need protection in the unorganised sector?

Answer 1

Most vulnerable people, who need protection in the unorganised sector can be described as under :
(i) In the rural areas, the unorganised sector mostly comprises of landless agricultural labourers, small and marginal farmers, share croppers and artisans (such as weavers, blacksmiths, carpenters and goldsmiths).
Nearly 80% of rural households in India are in small and marginal farmer category. These farmers need to be supported through adequate and timely delivery of seeds, agricultural inputs, credit, storage facilities and marketing outlets. Government should introduce some schemes which help the artisans for getting better livelihoods.
(ii) In the urban areas, unorganised sector comprises mainly of workers in small scale industry, casual workers in construction, trade and transport etc. Those who work as street vendors, head load workers, garment makers, rag pickers etc also fall into this category. The casual workers in both rural and urban areas need to be protected.
(iii) Majority of workers from Scheduled Castes and Tribes and backward communities find themselves in the unorganised sector. Besides getting the irregular and low paid work, these workers also face social discrimination.