DC Kohima highlights domestic workers’ vital role in care economy

KOHIMA — The Centre for Development Initiatives (CDI), Kohima, observed International Domestic Workers’ Day on June 16 on the theme ‘Respect and recognise domestic workers’ contribution to the care economy’.

Speaking on the occasion, Kumar Ramnikant, Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, highlighted the often overlooked yet significant contributions of domestic workers. He remarked that their services in society are silent and often unacknowledged, despite their substantial impact worldwide.

Ramnikant stressed the importance of both citizens and domestic workers understanding the rights of the latter. He emphasised the need for awareness about social security and available schemes for domestic workers, acknowledging the efforts of CDI, Kohima, and the Department of Labour in supporting them.

The deputy commissioner assured domestic workers that remedies are available through the district administration if they face any violence.

He underscored the dignity of labour, noting that the world would cease to function if everyone were only doctors or engineers, mentioning that everyone has a unique role and should take pride in their work, as per God’s plan.

Neimenuo Kuotsu, Assistant Labour Commissioner, stressed the importance of self-respect among domestic workers, underscoring that respecting themselves is fundamental to gaining respect from others. Also, she highlighted the need to recognise and respect the contributions of domestic workers to the care economy.

Kuotsu stated that despite their vital role in household functioning, enabling other jobs to be possible, their work remains undervalued and invisible.

She urged domestic workers not to lose heart despite the lack of recognition, emphasising that their importance will eventually be acknowledged. She mentioned that the International Labour Organisation projects that by 2030, the care economy will significantly grow to meet the needs of 2.3 billion people.

Encouraging them to stay hopeful as the rising demand in the care economy will lead to greater recognition of their work, she highlighted national policies and schemes introduced for the welfare of domestic workers, including the eShram and Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PMSYM) schemes.

During the programme, Sr. Rincy Kamei provided an overview of the CDI Kohima while words of encouragement were delivered by Juliana Medom, advisor Nagaland Resource Centre. Anny Solo shared her experiences as a domestic worker.