Topic:
This article is about informal workers and collective bargaining, but specifically I chose the case
regarding Bidi workers in India. The bidi industry faces issues regarding workers’ status as
employees, wages, welfare, retirement funds, exploitation by intermediaries, etc.
Relevant Information Included Related to the Topic:
About 95 percent of bidi workers are women that often require assistance from their children,
since they are paid so poorly. The bidi industry in India is unusual in the “unorganized”
(informal) sector because it’s regulated by law. Bidi laws were passed as the result of worker
actions, most of which were conducted with leadership and support from the Self Employed
Women’s Association (SEWA). SEWA and the workers it organizes engage in the full range of
trade union activities, including strikes.
Information Missing:
The article mentions that many children are working in the bidi industry, but it is never disclosed
how the exploitation of children in this industry is legally allowed. The article also mentions
there are organizational challenges regarding restrictions imposed by religion and culture, but
never indicates what these restrictions are exactly. It is also never made clear whether or not
members of SEWA pay membership fees to the association, since it isn’t technically a union.
Suggestions for Moving Forward:
1. Increase recognition and registration of bidi workers as being employees of the large
formal sector bidi factories.
2. Involve bidi workers in discussions and policy decisions that affect their circumstances,
lives, and future.
3. Educate bidi workers on alternative livelihoods and employment options.
Recommendations you would make: I would choose the first recommendation. The registration
of bidi workers is a start to establishing an equal playing field amongst all workers. It will
prevent the exploitation of bidi workers and address a variety of other issues in the process.
Pros and Cons of Recommendation:
Pros Cons
Better administration of taxes Workers still might not be involved in
decisions affecting their livelihood
Social Security and Employment benefits Workers might still face a number of health
issues
Fair wages, fair job conditions, and better
quality of life
The bidi industry will still allow the
employment of children
