Over the last three or so decades, Gujarat has emerged as one of the major suppliers of wooden home furniture in the country.
While some of the wealthier furniture manufacturers from the city have expanded their business to different cities and set up display centres in Lahore and Islamabad, etc, several others are producing furniture for local brands with showrooms across the country.
Gujarat’s wooden furniture industry is divided into cottage and small- to medium-scale industry. Out of the almost 250-300 units engaged in the production of furniture in the city, less than a score can be categorised as medium-sized producers.
But the situation of labour has been worsening in Gujarat furniture industry.
Pakistan’s latest labour policy of 2010 has stated that humane conditions of work should be guaranteed to all workers. The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan also ensures economic and social well-being of the people and guarantees prohibition of slavery. Our law also cover almost all aspects of labour and industry related subjects such as wages, labour environment, labour inspection, control of employment, rehabilitation of disabled persons, social security, social protection and workers’ welfare but Almost 94 pc of workers happen to be in Gujarat furniture industry do not have appointment letters because they are not registered as workers, Average work time is 11 hours a day and their monthly income ranges between Rs 8000 to 12000. Deaths, injuries and other dreadful conditions of the workers were very common at the workplace. Workers have no paid holidays, no job security, no medical coverage, no pension or provident fund and are paid no overtime. Child labour in Pakistan is growing at a disturbing rate. However, there is not much change looking at the present situation. There seem to be no labour laws.
Haji Nasir
Gujarat