SEWA Nagaland calls for protection of home-based workers

DIMAPUR — Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) Nagaland observed International Home-Based Workers Day on Tuesday in Kohima.

The event featured a rally and an interface dialogue, focusing on raising awareness about the critical role of home-based workers in the informal economy and advocating for their recognition and protection, stated a press release.

It mentioned that home-based workers, despite their significant contributions to industries like textiles and handicrafts, often remain invisible and lack social protection, fair wages, and basic labour rights.

The event began with a rally through Kohima city, starting from BOC Junction to Phoolbari Junction, followed by an interface dialogue at APO Hall Kohima. During this dialogue, informal women workers engaged with government officials and NGOs, stressing the need for improved working conditions and labour protections.

A central focus of the discussions was the importance of integrating home-based workers into national labour laws, as outlined in the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention C177, adopted in 1996.

SEWA Nagaland called on the government of India to ratify this convention and extend essential labour rights and protections to home-based workers, similar to those granted to wage earners. The findings from the survey conducted by SEWA on home-based workers were also presented.

The guest of honour, Avile Vitso, Joint Labour Commissioner of Nagaland, commended SEWA for its leadership in empowering women workers.

In her address, she remarked that society progresses due to the efforts of women like SEWA’s home-based workers and emphasised the need for skill development, self-reliance, and support for family well-being.

She encouraged workers to register on the eShram portal, which would enable them to access government schemes and benefits, noting that even migrant workers could benefit from such registration. She also highlighted the government’s readiness to support women workers through various schemes.

The keynote address was delivered by Vivoto, a counsellor at Young Minds NE, who led a session on communication and conflict resolution within families.

In his talk on women’s mental health, he emphasised the importance of self-care, particularly for mothers, stating that self-care is essential for both personal and family well-being. He shared practical tips on managing time and finances, maintaining a work-life balance, and seeking professional support when needed.

The event concluded with a call for the inclusion of home-based workers in national labour statistics and policies, ensuring their rightful place within the formal economy.