Chapter – VI
LABOUR WELFARE AND ATTITUDE
TOWARDS MANAGEMENT
169
CHAPTER - VI
LABOUR WELFARE AND ATTITUDE
TOWARDS MANAGEMENT
6.1. Introduction
A proper organization and administration of welfare facilities can play a
vital role in promoting better working conditions and living standards for
industrial workers, and also in increasing their productivity. Production
depends upon the labour behavior and performance. The philosophies of labour
welfare as depicted in research studies show a concern for the workers’ well-
being coupled with the assumption that a satisfied worker will be instrumental
in higher production. In the report of the Committee on Labour Welfare 1969,
the scope of labour welfare covered such services, facilities and amenities as
adequate canteens, rest and recreation facilities, sanitary and medical facilities,
arrangements for travel to and from work place, for the accommodation of
workers employed at a distance from their homes, and such other services,
amenities, and facilities, including social security measures, as contributing to
improvement of the conditions under which workers are employed.1
In other cases, the definition is much more limited, and welfare, in
addition to general physical working conditions is mainly concerned with the
day to day problems of the workers and the social relationships at the place of
work. In some countries the use of welfare facilities provided is confined to
the workers employed in the undertaking concerned while in others the
1 L.M. Prasad, 2005, Human Resource Management, Sultan Chand & Sons, p. 538.
170
worker’s families are allowed to share in many of the benefits which are made
available. On the other hand, labour welfare has two sides, negative and
positive. On the one side, it is associated with the counteracting of the harmful
effect of large scale industrialization on the personal, family and social life of
the workers, while, on the other, and positive side, it deals with the provision of
opportunities for the worker and his family for a socially and personally good
life. Social security measures, which contribute to workers welfare, such as
industrial health insurance, provident fund, gratuity, maternity / paternity
benefits, workmen’s compensation, pension, retirement benefits etc. which are
the species of the larger family encompassed by the term labour welfare. After
a study of various reports and various works, we can conclude that all the
above mentioned activities are generally included under the scope of labour
welfare.
The health of the workers is the mirror of the prosperity of a country. If
the industrial worker is sick, the industrial unit will be sick. To neglect the
labour class is to neglect productivity, because, ultimately, country’s welfare
lies in their welfare. In India, labour welfare measures become all the more
important because of the reasons like low level of wages, irregular working
hours, inability of trade union to undertake welfare work, to build up a stable
labour force, to create a committed labour force, for creating a genuine welfare
state, to create good psychological feelings and to create good moral habits.
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If the environment of the organization helps in satisfaction of various
needs of the labourer, he will develop pro or favorable attitude towards job,
organization and finally towards people of management. Otherwise, the
dissatisfied workforce may lead to negative or unfavorable attitude towards
management, work and organization. If the organization fares well, then the
workers develop positive attitude which not only enhances the effectiveness of
an organization, but also is also desirable for their own sake. Thus, if
management goes on working for the welfare of the labourer, the labourers feel
satisfied with their job and they get the motivation for their work.
Simultaneously, the workers develop a pro-management attitude and so labour
welfare facilities affect the labourer behaviour.
In India every employer must implement the provisions of Factory Act.
Undoubtedly, the facilities like education, housing, medical, recreation, safety,
interest free loan, canteen and good working conditions enhance the workers’
capacity to work sincerely. Better facilities always motivate a worker towards
work in a laudable manner. These welfare activities will work as incentives for
the workers. If these facilities are being provided at an organization, the
workers will be satisfied and their attitudes towards management will be pro
and positive. Simultaneously, if the workers are not satisfied, their attitudes
will be anti and negative towards management. Results indicate that better
welfare perceived workers have more favourable attitudes towards
management in comparison to poor welfare perceived workers in private sector
as well as those in public sector.
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6.1.1. Labour Welfare
The Encyclopedia of Social Sciences defines welfare work as, Voluntary
efforts of an employer to establish within the existing industrial system,
working and sometimes living and cultural conditions of his respondents
beyond what is required by law, the customs of industry and condition of the
market’.2
In its resolution of 1947, International Labour Organisation defines
labour welfare as, ‘such services, facilities and amenities as adequate canteens,
rest and recreation facilities, arrangements for travel to and from to work and
for the accommodation of workers employed at a distance from their houses,
and such other services, amenities and facilities and contribute to improve the
conditions under which workers are employed.3
Labour welfare, also termed as ‘Employee Services’, is held to comprise
of basically three types of services; for example Pensions, insurance, health,
and accident services, the recreational and facilities Medical services, housing,
cafeteria, legal and financial counseling education and library services.
A worker’s well-being, inside as well as outside the factory, is mainly an
employer’s concern, because it has a direct bearing on the efficiency of his
work. Unhappiness at home often affects a man’s conduct at work. Maximum
production and raising the standard of living of workers are impossible without
scientific labour welfare activities. It is the right of the worker as a human 2 Encyclopedia of Social Sciences, 1985, Vol. 15, p. 395. 3 Aparna Raj, 2003, “Industrial Relations in India Issues,” Institutions and Outlook, New Delhi,
New Century Publications, India, p. 270-271.
173
being to get the minimum amenities which, in turn, contribute to a very large
extent towards production efficiency.
6.1.2. Objectives of Labour Welfare
Improving the efficiency of the workers is another objective of labour
welfare. Efficiency reaps a double reward, one in the form of increased
production and the other in the shape of higher wage. Welfare measures to
improve the working conditions of the workers add their efficiency and
efficiency in turn help the workers to earn more wages. Therefore, it may be
said that welfare in industry is twice blessed. It helps the employer and the
employee.
6.1.3. Labour Welfare and Social Welfare
Labour welfare is a significant aspect of social welfare, an ideal which is
cherished by all civilized countries including India. If ‘labour’ means any
productive activity, and ‘welfare’ means the physical, social, psychological or
mental and general well-being, then the term ‘labour welfare’ is bound to have
wide contours.4 The concept of labour welfare shall necessarily be dynamic,
bearing a different interpretation from country to country, according to its value
systems, social institution, and degree of industrialization and general level of
social and economic development. It is because of this reason that no definition
of labour welfare has found universal acceptance.
4 M.V. Moorthy, 1958, Principles of Labour Welfare, Gupta Bros, Vishakhapatnam, p. 1-9.
174
The concept of labour welfare originated in the desire for a humanitarian
approach5 to ameliorate the sufferings of the workers and their families on
account of large-scale industrialization like undesirable social consequences
and the labour problem which have evolved in the process of transition from
tradition to modernity.
6.1.4. Significance of Labour Welfare
Labour Welfare contributes towards the maintenance of employee
morale. It is one of the major determinates of industrial relations. The whole
field of welfare is one in which much can be done to combat the sense of
frustration of the industrial worker, to relieve him of personal and family
worries to improve his health, to afford him a means of self expression, to offer
him some sphere in which he can excel all others, and to help him to a wider
conception of life. Welfare measures also play a significant role in reducing
absenteeism and labour turnover in industries; they help respondents to adjust
themselves to the industrial environment.
The need for labour welfare in India which has embarked upon a vast
programme of industrialization is all the more important since it creates a
healthy atmosphere in the work place, keeps the labour force stable and
contented, helps in maintaining industrial peace, thereby improving productive
efficiency of the workers.
5 Cyril Curtis Ling, 1979, The Management of personnel Relations, p. 71-73.
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6.1.5. Labour Welfare in ILO
The ILO session held at New Delhi in 1947 defined Labour Welfare as “
such services, facilities and amenities, which may be established in or in the
vicinity of, undertakings to enable persons employed there in to perform their
work in healthy, congenial surroundings and to provide them with amenities
conductive to good health and good morale and that labour welfare covers all
the efforts which employers make for the benefit of their respondents over and
above the minimum standard of working conditions fixed by Factories Act and
over and above the provision of social legislation providing against accident,
old age, unemployment and sickness”.6
6.1.6. Concept of Labour Welfare
The concept of labour welfare is dynamic, flexible and elastic. It has
been, thus, interpreted in different ways from time to time; region to region,
industry to industry depending upon the value system, level of education, social
customs, degree of industrialization and of the socio-economic development of
people and political ideologies prevailing at a particular time. The Oxford
Dictionary defines labour welfare as “efforts to make life worth living for
workers”.7
The Labour Investigation Committee defined labour welfare as:
“Anything done for intellectual, physical, moral and economic betterment of
6 Joshi, N.M., 1927, “Trade Union Movement in India”, Longmans Green & Co., Bombay, p. 26. 7 Hopkin, R.R., 1955, A Handbook of Industrial Welfare, p. 1.
176
the workers, whether by employers, by government or by other agencies, over
and above what is laid down by law or what is normally expected on the part of
the contractual benefits for which workers may have bargained.8
6.1.7. Scope of Labour Welfare
With regard to the scope of labour welfare the International Labour
Orgainsation (ILO) observed, that the term is one which lends itself to various
interpretations, and it has not always the same significance in different
countries. Labour Welfare means “such services, facilities and amenities which
may be established in or in the vicinity or undertakings to enable persons
employed therein to perform their work in healthy and congenial surroundings
and to provide them with amenities conducive to good health and good
morals”.9
The scope of labour welfare is fairly wide and is not limited to any one
country, region, industry or occupation. However, all activities, facilities,
amenities which aim at ameliorating the working and living conditions of the
workers and their families which in turn make their lives more meaningful may
be included in the scope of labour welfare.10
The Study Team, appointed by the Government of India in 1959 to
examine labour welfare activities then existing, divided the entire range of
8 Government of India, 1946, Report of the Labour Investigation Committee, Delhi, p. 336. 9 International Labour Organisation, Report II, Provision of Facilities for the Promotion of Worker’s
Welfare, Asian Region Conference, p.3. 10 Laldas, D.K., 1991, Personnel Management Industrial Relations and Labour Welfare, Y.K.
Publishers, Agra, p. 315.
177
these activities into three groups, viz., Welfare within the precincts of an
establishment: medical aid, crèches, canteens, supply of drinking water, etc.,
Welfare outside the establishment: provision for indoor and outdoor recreation,
housing, adult education, visual instruction, etc. and social security.11
6.1.8. Labour Welfare Inventory
This inventory is developed by Srivastava12 (2004) to measure how
much the labourers are satisfied or dissatisfied with the welfare facilities
provided by the management in the organization. There is a total of 47 items in
this inventory. This inventory measures eight dimensions of Labour Welfare
Activities, which are as follows: Education, Recreation, Medical, Subsidized
loan, Canteen, Housing, Safety and others general well being of workers.
6.2. Common Welfare Programmes in Industry
Industrial welfare has a very wide scope. It embraces multicast of
activities dealing with education, health, medical aid, working conditions,
recreation, housing, safety, general well-being and efficiency of the workers.
The following can be listed as some of the more important employee service
programmes. 1) Good working conditions with regard to temperature,
ventilation, lighting, cleanliness and sanitation. 2) Devices such as rest breaks
and change of work to break monotony and to prevent fatigue. 3) Seating
11 Government of India, “Report of the National Commission on Labour”, 1969, p. 112. 12 Srivastava, S.K., 2004, “Impact of Labour Welfare on Employee Attitudes and Job satisfaction”,
Management & Labour Studies, Vol. 29, February, p. 31 – 41.
178
arrangements for workers obliged to work in standing position to take rest
when they get a spell of time. 4) Safety devices and safe education to prevent
industrial accidents. 5) Medical aid and care of respondents and their
dependents. 6) Sports, games and other recreational activities. 7) Housing
facilities for respondents. 8) Social security schemes such as pension, provident
fund, gratuity, accident compensation, etc., 9) Thrift and saving schemes.
10) Co-operative societies and stores. 11) Holiday arrangements with pay.
12) Transport to and from work. 13) Mess rooms. 14) Canteens. 15) Protection
against fire. 16) First aid appliances. 17) Protective clothes and equipments.
18) Lockers. 19) Scholarships for respondents’ children, schools and other
educational facilities. 20) Drinking water. 21) Restrooms. 22) Bathrooms.
23) Latrines. 24) Cloakrooms. 25) Crèches. 26) Leave fare assistance to
encourage respondents to spend annual leave away from the work place and to
enable them to visit other industrial cities or other parts of the country as they
desire. 27) Maternity benefits. 28) Technical and social, educational and
training programmes for workers. 29) Reading room and library. 30) Good
communication methods including a house magazine. Employee services are
good incentives in industry for production efficiency and sound industrial
relations.13
13 Pylee, M.V. Simon George. A, “Industrial Relation and Personal Management”, Vikas Publishing
House Pvt. Ltd., 1996, p. 91-92.
179
6.2.1. Company quarters
Some organizations construct flats for their respondents and provide the
same either free or at a nominal rent. In some cases, cash compensations are
given while in other cases, loans are advanced to the respondents to enable
them to construct or purchase their own houses or flats. It is generally
observed in the units that the company’s quarters are inadequate. In our
personal observation and discussion with the workers, it was observed that the
facility available is an inadequate one.
Table - 6.1
Provision of Company Quarters of Employees
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Satisfied 201 57.40
2. Not Satisfied 149 42.60
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
The Table 6.1 shows that 201(57.40%) respondents are found satisfied
with the provision of company quarters and 149(42.60%) respondents have
been dissatisfied with the provision of company quarters of employees. Hence
we assume that 57 per cent of respondents are satisfied with provision of
company quarters of employees.
180
6.2.2. Location of Industries
The industries are situated in semi urban and rural areas. The workers
are coming from various places. Some of them are staying near the industries
at a walkable distance, some workers are living in town areas and others are
staying in suburban areas. It is generally observed that some workers are late
comers on some days because they are staying in distant places. So the
management should take care about it and provide residence facilities near the
industries.
Table - 6.2
Distance between House and Work Place
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Walkable distance 98 28.00
2. Within city limit 180 51.40
3. Sub urban 72 20.60
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.2 that 98(28.00%) respondents are staying
in a house which is at a walk able distance, 180(51.40%) respondents are
staying in a house which is within city limit and 72(20.60%) respondents are
staying in a house which is at an urban area.
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6.2.3. Staying of Employees
In our general observation in the units, majority of workers are staying
in rented houses and some workers in their own houses. The discussion held
with the workers and executives regarding the staying of employees reveal that
they expect the management to provide facilities to the employees in future. So
the management should take care of it and provide the facilities to the workers
and thus increase their productivity.
Table – 6.3
Types of Residence
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Rented House 251 71.71
2. Own House 99 28.29
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.3 that 251(71.71%) respondents have been
staying in a rented house, and 99(28.29%) respondents are staying in their own
house.
182
6.2.4. Conveyance
Companies provide conveyance facilities to their respondents from the
place of their residence to the place of work as most of the industries are
located outside town and all respondents may not get quarter facility. As per
the Act, the industries should provide conveyance facilities like van and bus
etc., to their employees. It is generally observed that the Mode of Conveyance
of Employees in the units is an adequate one.
Table – 6.4
Mode of Conveyance of Employees
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Two wheelers 247 70.60
2. Bus 103 29.40
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.4 that for 247(70.60%) respondents the
mode of conveyance is Two wheeler and 103(29.40%) respondents are using
bus as their mode of conveyance.
6.2.5. Medical benefits
Health is one of the foremost things for the respondents and it is but
natural that there may be some injuries because of accidents while working. So
first-aid facilities must be provided for within the factory premises. In addition,
medical scheme is generally in operation under which reimbursement of
medical expenses actually incurred is allowed. The organization may also
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prescribe doctors from whom the respondents may get services in case of need.
Some of the large organizations provide medical benefits to their retired
respondents and their family members. This benefit creates a feeling of
permanent attachment with the organization to the respondents even while they
are in service. As per the official report of industries, the medical facilities
provided to the employees of the orgainisations are very good. In emergency
case, workers are treated in Cuddalore at Krishna hospital and Kannan
Hospital. If necessary, for further treatment, they are also sent to Appolo
Hospital in Chennai with a grant of one lakh rupees. The discussion held with
the workers and executives regarding Medical Benefits of Employees revealed
that the employees are highly satisfied with the benefits.
Table – 6.5
Medical Benefits of Employees
S.
No. Category
No. of
Respondents Percentage
1. Highly Satisfied 72 20.60
2. Satisfied 180 51.40
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 98 28.00
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.5 that 72(20.60%) respondents have stated
that the medical benefits provided are highly satisfied, 180(51.40%)
respondents are satisfied and 98(28%) respondents have stated that the medical
benefits provided are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied. Therefore, 72 percent
respondents are having a favourable mindset about the medical benefits
provided by the organization.
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6.2.6. Periodical medical checkup
The periodical medical examination is necessary at suitable intervals -
say every two or three years. That would be beneficial both to the worker and
the employer. Many of the enterprises have adopted the scheme of regular
checkup of their respondents after the age of forty. The discussion held with
the workers and executives regarding Medical Checkup of Employees reveal
that they are highly satisfied with the practice. It is generally observed that
Periodical Medical Checkup of Employees in the units is an adequate one.
Table - 6.6
Periodical Medical Checkup of Employees
S.
No. Category
No. of
Respondents Percentage
1. Satisfied 221 63.10
2. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 129 36.90
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.6 that 221(63.10%) respondents’ have
opined that the organizations are conducting a periodical medical check up is
satisfactory and 129(36.90%) respondents’ have opined that the organization is
conducting a periodical medical check up is neither satisfied nor dissatisfied.
185
6.2.7. Canteen facility
In factories employing more than 250 workers, provision of canteens is
necessary. To prevent waste of working time at the canteen, food, tea and
snacks can be taken to the workers at their work spots by the canteen staff. As
per the official reports of selected units, the wholesome Canteen Facility being
provided to the workers is a satisfied one. Our personal observation and the
discussions held with the workers revealed that the facility available is found
satisfactory in the units.
Table – 6.7
Opinion about the Canteen Facility
S.
No. Category
No. of
Respondents Percentage
1. Satisfied 149 42.60
2. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 201 57.40
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.7 that 149(42.60%) respondents have
opined that the canteen facility provided by the organization is a satisfied,
201(57.40%) respondents’ opined that the canteen facility provided by
organization is neither satisfied nor dissatisfied.
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6.2.8. Quality of Food Offered in Canteen
It is necessary to supply quality food to employees through canteen in
industries. Quality of food is the most essential to be provided in industrial
orgainisations. There should be adequate arrangements to provide quality of
food to the workmen at their work place. As per the official reports of selected
units, wholesome quality of food facilities is being provided to the workers in
the canteen. The personal observation and the discussions held with the
workers revealed that the quality of food available in canteen is satisfactory in
the units.
6.2.9. Shelters and Restrooms
In factories where more than 150 workers are employed adequate and
suitable rest shelters for taking meals or rest during intervals must be provided.
As per rules, even the canteen shelter may be regarded as rest room. Every
shelter should have a floor area of not less than 14 square meters and it should
be constructed to afford effective protection to the workers from bad weather.
Further it is necessary that adequate supply of cool and wholesome drinking
water should be provided in these rest rooms during the working hours. It is
also necessary that the rest houses are to be kept in a clean and tidy condition.
It is observed that in the units adequate number of rest rooms is provided at all
suitable places. These shelters are maintained with required minimum facilities
like drinking water supply.
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Table - 6.8
Shelters and Restrooms of Employees
S.
No. Category
No. of
Respondents Percentage
1. Satisfied 201 57.40
2. Not Satisfied 149 42.60
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
The Table 6.8 shows that 201(57.40%) respondents have been satisfied
with shelters and restrooms of employees and 149(42.60%) respondents have
been dissatisfied with shelters and restrooms of employees. It is generally
observed that 57 percent of respondents are satisfied with Shelters and
Restrooms of Employees.
6.2.10. Recreational facilities
The management may provide for indoor games like Table Tennis in the
common room for respondents. In case of big organizations, management may
also arrange for playgrounds for outdoor games and induce the workers to
prepare teams to play matches with other similar teams. Co-operation and
understanding among the respondents will increase. Management may also
provide for reading rooms, libraries, radios, T.V. etc. for the recreation of the
respondents. Our personal observation and the discussions held with the
workers revealed that 91 percent of employees are satisfied with the facilities
available.
188
Table – 6.9
Recreational Facilities of Employees
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Satisfied 319 91.10
2. Not Satisfied 31 8.90
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
The Table 6.9 shows that 319(91.10%) respondents are satisfied with the
recreational facilities provided by the organization and 31(8.90%) respondents
are dissatisfied with the recreational facilities provided by the organization.
Hence, we assume that 91 percent of the respondents are satisfied with the
recreational facilities provided by the organization.
189
Table – 6.10
Labour Welfare of employees
S.
No. Category N Mean
Std.
Dev. Rank F Sig.
1. Provision of Company quarters 350 1.00 0.00 8 42.17 4.02
2. Distance 350 0.91 0.28 10 30.55 5.99
3. Staying 350 1.13 0.84 7 35.93 6.56
4. Conveyance 350 1.22 1.26 6 10.89 0.00*
5. Medical benefits 350 2.71 0.46 1 12.72 0.00*
6. Periodical medical checkup 350 1.93 0.69 3 12.17 0.02*
7. Canteen facility 350 2.26 0.97 2 41.51 6.87
8. Dining room 350 1.43 0.50 5 32.71 9.64
9. Shelters and Restrooms of Employees
350 1.02 0.00 9 45.11 3.86
10. Recreational facilities 350 1.78 0.76 4 34.15 2.89
Source: Primary Data *level of significance at 5% level
The Table 6.10 shows the ranking based on mean perception scores of
the respondents. The weights assigned for the collected information in the
level of agreement of the respondent is “5” who strongly agree or satisfied to
“1” who strongly disagrees or dissatisfied. Highest scores imply positive
reaction and favourable attitude of respondents. Therefore, statement in the
highest mean perception score is the most preferred one and statement with the
lowest mean perception score is the least preferred one. An examination of the
table depicts the following: The respondents feel that the welfare measure
given by the company in terms of medical benefit with mean score of 2.71 is
ranked as 1. Canteen facility with mean score of 2.26 is ranked as 2. Periodical
190
medical checkup with a mean score of 1.93 is ranked as 3. Recreational
facilities with a mean score of 1.78 are ranked as 4. Standard deviation has
been used to know how the opinions of respondents are fluctuating from their
central tendency (i.e.,) Mean. It has been found that the deviations from the
central tendency (mean) are relatively less fluctuating. This confirms that the
attitude of the respondents towards the significance of welfare measure
improves the quality of the respondent’s lifestyle and it leads to increase in the
performance of respondents. This proves that the respondents are satisfied
towards the welfare measure given by the concern.
Further to test with the ANOVA by formulating a null hypothesis that is
the perception about the labour productivity and welfare measure which does
not differ among the cadre. The analysis of the table shows that the null
hypothesis is rejected to following factors such as conveyance, medical
benefits and periodical medical checkup leading to the acceptance of the
alternative hypothesis that there is significant difference in the perception about
the labour productivity and welfare measure which does not differ among the
cadre.
6.3. General working conditions
Chapter III of the Factories Act, 1948 deals with the provisions
regarding health. It lays emphasis on the conditions inside the factory as an
important factor in the health and safety of the workers
191
6.3.1. Ventilation and Temperature
Ventilation is an important factor for good working conditions. Effects
of deficient ventilation are detrimental to the health of the workers. Work
place must be properly ventilated. Inadequate ventilation affects the health of
the workers. The Management of Industries has taken necessary steps to
provide fresh air and to exhaust polluted air from the work spot. For this
purpose, giant size exhaust fans are installed at every place. To a large extent,
these exhaust fans are able to remove the polluted air and dust from the work
places. It is noticed that the ventilation measures taken by the Industries are
working effectively.
Table – 6.11
Ventilation and Temperature Provided In the Working Place
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Highly Satisfied 113 32.30
2. Satisfied 194 55.40
3. Not Satisfied 3 00.90
4. Not at all Satisfied 40 11.40
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.11 that 113(32.30%) respondents have
opined ventilation and temperature provided in the working place are highly
satisfactory, 194(55.40%) respondents have opined as satisfied, 3(0.90%)
respondents have opined as not satisfied and 40(11.40%) respondents have
opined as not at all Satisfied.
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6.3.2. Drinking water
Drinking water is the most essential facility to be provided in industrial
orgainisations. Supply of drinking water at suitable points accessible to all
workers must be arranged. Such water points must be within twenty feet of
any washing place, urinal or latrine. Water coolers are necessary to supply ice-
cold water during summer. As per the official reports of selected units,
wholesome drinking water facilities are being provided to the worker. Our
personal observation and the discussions held with the workers revealed that
the facility available is 100 percent satisfied in the units.
Table – 6.12
Drinking Water of Employees
S.
No. Category No .of Respondents Percentage
1. Highly Satisfied 237 67.70
2. Satisfied 113 32.30
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.12 that 237(67.70%) respondents have
agreed that drinking water supplied is highly satisfactory and 113(32.30%)
respondents have agreed that drinking water supplied is satisfactory.
193
6.3.3. Latrines and Urinals
Provision of sufficient latrines and urinals is compulsory. Separate
enclosed accommodation, adequately lighted and ventilated must be given to
male and female workers. Urinals and latrines must be located at various
points in a factory so that they are easily accessible to the workers. When the
concerned workers were interviewed, they revealed that the units have
maintained with hygienic conditions. It is generally observed in study units that
the toilet facilities are adequate.
Table – 6.13
Latrines and Urinals of Employees
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Highly Satisfied 63 18.00
2. Satisfied 280 80.00
3. Not satisfied 7 02.00
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.13 that 63(18%) respondents have
expressed their opinion that they are highly satisfied with the facility of latrines
and urinals, 280(80%) respondents have expressed their opinion that they are
satisfied with the facility of latrines and urinals and 7(2%) respondents have
expressed their opinion as not satisfied.
194
6.3.4. Lighting
Poor lighting will cause poor workmanship and continuous strain on the
eyesight. For maximum efficiency and production, lighting arrangement
should be at its best. Employers must ensure that lighting is not only sufficient
but that it avoids casting of routings which have a stimulation influence.
Insufficient light may lead to fatigue, headache and accidents. In the study
units, lighting arrangements are adequately made. However the lighting in the
many ways is found to be inadequate in few places. Therefore, the management
has to take necessary steps to provide adequate lighting facilities in the man
ways.
Table – 6.14
Lighting Arrangement in the Units of Employees
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Highly satisfied 17 04.90
2. Satisfied 177 50.60
3. Not satisfied 64 18.30
4. Not at all satisfied 92 26.20
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.14 that 17(4.90%) respondents have
expressed that the lighting facility is highly satisfactory; 177(50.60%)
respondents have expressed lighting facility as satisfied; 64(18.30%)
respondents have expressed as not satisfied and 92(26.20%) respondents have
expressed as not at all satisfied.
195
6.3.5. Spittoons
Sufficient number of spittoons must be provided in convenient places,
and they must be maintained in a clean and hygienic condition. Spitting
anywhere except in spittoons is an offence, punishable under the Act.14 It is
generally observed in the industries that the spittoons facilities are inadequate.
Table – 6.15
Perception on Spittoons in the Units
S.
No. Category
No. of
Respondents Percentage
1. Highly satisfied 46 13.10
2. Satisfied 52 14.90
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 144 41.10
4. Not satisfied 66 18.90
5. Not at all satisfied 42 12.00
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.15 that 46(13.10%) respondents have
positive opinion about provision of spittoons; and 52(14.90%) respondents are
satisfied; 144(41.10%) respondents are not satisfied, 66(18.90%) respondents
are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied about it and 42(12.00%) respondents are
not at all satisfied about the provision of spittoons.
14 Dr. M.V. Pylee, A. Simon George, “Industrial Relation and Personal Management,” Vikas
Publishing House Pvt. Ltd., 1996, p. 91-92.
196
6.3.6. Measures against pollution by way of dust and fume
Noxious fumes and dusts in a factory, unless allowed to escape through
scientific means, will ruin the health of the workers. The work environment has
an important bearing on the efficiency and productivity of the employees. The
Factories Act, 1948 provides for various health provisions in the factories
under sections 11 to 17. As per the official report of industries, sufficient
measure against pollution by the way of dust and fume facilities is being
provided to workers in all the places. But personal observation and the
discussions held with the workers revealed that the facility is available only in
few places.
Table – 6.16
Perception on Pollution Control Measures
S.
No. Category
No. of
Respondents Percentage
1. Highly satisfied 34 9.70
2. Satisfied 81 23.10
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 177 50.60
4. Not satisfied 58 16.60
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.16 that for 34(9.70%) respondents have
been highly satisfied and 81(23.10%) respondents are satisfied about effective
measures taken to prevent its inhalation and accumulation; 177(50.60%)
respondents feel neither satisfied nor dissatisfied about effective measures
taken to prevent its inhalation and accumulation; 29(8.30%) respondents are
not satisfied.
197
6.3.7. Disposal of Waste and Effluents
Accumulation of dirt and refuse must be removed daily. Adequate and
hygienic arrangements must be made for the disposal of waste and effluents.
As per Act, sufficient disposal of waste and efficient mode of prescribed types
should be provided in the work spot. It is generally observed in the units that
the disposal of waste and effluents are adequate. But personal observation and
the discussions held with the workers revealed that the facility is adequate in
major areas and inadequate in limited areas. So the management should care of
it.
Table – 6.17
Perception on disposal of Waste and Effluents
S.
No. Category
No. of
Respondents Percentage
1. Highly satisfied 47 13.40
2. Satisfied 216 61.70
3. Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied 17 4.90
4. Not satisfied 70 20.00
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.17 that for 47(13.40%) respondents are
highly satisfied with the measures for disposal of waste and effluents;
216(61.70%) respondents feel satisfied with the measure for disposal of waste
and effluents; 17(4.90%) respondents feel neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with
measures for disposal of waste and effluents; 70(20.00%) respondents, are not
satisfied.
198
6.3.8. Maintenance of Humidity
Humidity at work place must be properly controlled. Provision must
also be made for securing and maintaining reasonable temperature in work
rooms. It is easier to work in moderate heat or cold than in extremes. Too high
or too low temperature may cause physical discomfort and impair health and
efficiency. Maintenance of humidity is the most essential facility to be
provided in industrial orgainisations. It is generally observed in the study units
that the maintenance of humidity facilities is adequate.
Table – 6.18
Maintenance of Humidity
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Highly satisfied 127 36.30
2. Satisfied 223 63.70
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.18 that 67(19.10%) respondents are
satisfied with maintenance of humidity and 283(80.90%) respondents are
satisfied with maintenance of humidity and therefore all the 350(100%)
respondents are either highly satisfied or satisfied with the maintenance of
humidity.
199
6.3.9. Cleanliness
Sanitary and orderly conditions are necessary to conserve the health and
happiness of workers. The management must ensure that the highest possible
standards of cleanliness are laid down and maintained. Clean condition is a
pre-requisite to the health of the workers. Every factory must be kept clean and
free from effluents arising from drain or other nuisance. It is observed that in
the units adequate cleanliness is maintained provided in the all places. The
discussion held with the workers and executives have revealed that, wherever
possible the management has provided clean atmosphere at work place.
Table – 6.19
Cleanliness in the Working Place
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Highly satisfied 127 36.30
2. Satisfied 223 63.70
Total 350 100.00
Sources: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.19 that 127(36.30%) respondents are
highly satisfied about cleanliness and 223(63.70%) respondents are satisfied
about cleanliness and therefore all the 350(100%) respondents are either highly
satisfied or satisfied with the cleanliness.
200
6.3.10. Working hours
A worker cannot work continuously for more than 8 hours in production
units. In the study units as per the present practice, a worker has to work for 8
hours. In production units, the pervasions take place round the clock in 3 shifts.
The first shift starts early in the morning at 6.00 a.m. and continues up to
2.00 p.m. Second shift starts at 2.00 p.m., and ends at 10.00 p.m.; third shift
starts at 10.00 p.m. and ends at 6.00a.m. Every worker would be rotated in the
shift on a weekly basis. It is observed that though a worker is required to work
for 8 hours in production work, he is effectively working for only 7½ hours in
every shift. The workers take about ½ hour time to change their dress, collect
the material and safety equipments like helmet and other formalities.
Table - 6.20
Perception on Working Hours
S.
No. Category No. of Respondents Percentage
1. Highly Satisfied 101 28.90
2. Satisfied 229 65.40
3. Not satisfied 20 5.70
Total 350 100.00
Source: Primary Data
It could be seen from Table 6.20 that 101(28.90%) respondents are
highly satisfied about working hours; 229(65.40%) respondents are satisfied
with working hours, and only 20(5.70%) respondents feel not satisfied about
working hours.
201
Table - 6.21
General Working Conditions of employees in the units
S.
No. Category N Mean
Std.
Dev. Rank F Sig.
1. Ventilation and Temperature
350 4.68 0.47 1 17.75 0.07**
2. Drinking water 350 4.16 0.42 5 9.70 0.04*
3. Latrine and Urinals 350 3.34 0.92 8 4.65 0.01*
4. Lighting 350 2.97 1.19 10 6.29 0.00*
5. Spittoons 350 3.10 1.09 9 32.71 9.66
6. Pollution 350 3.54 1.23 7 11.48 0.00*
7. Disposal of waste and effluents
350 3.62 1.23 6 82 6.05
8. Maintenance of Humidity 350 4.19 0.39 4 15.72 2.90
9. Cleanliness 350 4.36 0.48 2 2.24 0.10**
10. Working hours 350 4.23 0.54 3 12.32 6.78
Source: Primary Data *level of significance at 5% level
The Table 6.21 shows the ranking based on mean perception scores of
the respondents. The weights assigned for the collected information in the
level of agreement of the respondent is “5” who strongly agree or satisfied to
“1” who strongly disagrees or dissatisfied. Highest scores imply positive
reaction and favourable attitude of respondents. Therefore, statement in the
highest mean perception score is the most preferred one and statement with the
lowest mean perception score is the least preferred one.
202
An examination of the table depicts the following: The respondents feel
that the general working conditions given by the company in terms of
ventilation and temperature with mean score of 4.68 is ranked as 1.
Cleanliness as a mean score of 4.36 is ranked as 2. Working condition with a
mean score of 4.23 is ranked as 3. Maintenance of humanity in an organization
with a mean score of 4.19 is ranked as 4. Drinking water with a mean score of
4.16 is ranked as 5. Standard deviation has been used to know how the opinions
of respondents are fluctuating from their central tendency (i.e.) Mean. It has
been found that the deviations from the central tendency (mean) are relatively
less fluctuating. This confirms that the attitude of the respondents towards the
significance of working condition prevailing in an organization leads to
performance of respondents. This proves that the respondents are satisfied
towards the working conditions provided of the study units. Further to test with
the ANOVA by formulating a null hypothesis that is the perception about the
labour productivity and general working conditions which does not differ
among the cadre. The analysis of the table shows that the null hypothesis is
rejected to following factors like perception of pollution, provision of
cleanliness, lighting and drinking water leading to the acceptance of the
alternative hypothesis that there is significant difference in the perception about
the labour productivity and general working conditions which does not differ
among the cadre.
203
6.4. Employees Attitude towards Management
The word attitude has been defined as mental state of readiness,
organized through experience, exerting a directive or dynamic influence upon
individuals, which responds to all objects and situations with which it is
related. Reactions to situations, people or groups are based on attitudes.
Attitude is the way in which a person responds to his environment. Workers
have always an attitude of suspicion, resentment and frustration and these, in
turn, react on their behaviour and morale. A worker’s attitude and morale are
dependent on his domestic life as well as personal and economic difficulties.
Attitude determines opinions and prejudices. In other words, morale is
dependent on “attitude”. Most successful method of fastening correct attitude
is group discussions. A good system of communication in industry helps in
promoting a healthy attitude.
If the employee has continued worry on his mind, whether connected
with his workplace or with home or society, it will eventually affect his work.
He may become dissatisfied with his job or with the firm and may wish to
leave; a chronic absentee, a poor or difficult worker; a person with permanent
grievance against his superiors and fellow worker is always a problem worker.
Fair hearing and square deal on grievances, prospects of satisfactory
future, recognition of and credit for constructive suggestions offered, friendly
and helpful criticism of work and correction of errors, pay increases where
deserved, recognition and praise for unusually good work, selection of the best
employee for promotion where vacancy arises, freedom from unjust reprimand,
204
satisfactory daily working hours, a good vacation policy, all these lead to
satisfactory working conditions and employee services promoting a high
morale in industry. Good industrial relations can be maintained only by
fostering the correct attitude in the respondents and employers and by keeping
up a high morale.
Table - 6.22
Industrial Relations and Labour Productivity
S.
No. Particulars N Mean
Std.
Dev. Rank F SIG
1. Training and Development
350 29.27 2.78 4 3.12 0.045*
2. Wages and Allowances 350 42.82 4.81 2 21.10 0.08**
3. Industrial Disputes 350 6.64 1.13 8 25.10 0.53
4. General Working Conditions
350 43.98 3.56 1 11.84 0.052*
5. Industrial Relations 350 18.30 2.75 6 22.79 0.12
6. Workers Participation 350 6.01 1.09 9 119.58 12.89
7. Level of Satisfaction 350 42.71 3.11 3 14.52 5.99
8. Labour Welfare 350 27.29 1.03 5 37.89 0*
9. Environment Accidents and Safety
350 13.10 1.32 7 0.57 0.57
Source: Primary Data *level of significance at 5% level
The Table 6.22 shows the ranking based on mean perception scores of
the respondents. The weights assigned for the collected information in the
level of agreement of the respondent is “5” who strongly agree or satisfied and
“1” who strongly disagrees or dissatisfied. Highest scores imply positive
reaction and favourable attitude of respondents. Therefore, statement in the
highest mean perception score is the most preferred one and statement in the
205
lowest mean perception score is the least preferred one. An examination of the
table depicts the following: The respondents feel that the industrial relation and
labour productivity in an organization in terms of present working conditions
with mean score of 43.98is ranked as 1. Wages and allowances with mean
score of 42.82 is ranked as 2. Level of satisfaction with a mean score of 42.71
is ranked as 3. Training and development with a mean score of 29.27 is ranked
as 4. Labour welfare with a mean score of 27.29 is ranked as 5. Standard
deviation has been used to know how the opinions of respondents are
fluctuating from their central tendency i.e. Mean. It has been found that the
deviations from the central tendency (mean) are relatively less fluctuating. This
confirms that the attitude of the respondents towards the significance of
industrial relation and labour productivity improves the quality of the job. This
proves that the respondents are satisfied towards the measure taken by the
concern in terms of labour productivity.
Further to test with the ANOVA by formulating a null hypothesis that is
the perception about the industrial relation and labour productivity which does
not differ among the cadre. The analysis of the table shows that the null
hypothesis is rejected due to following factors like Training and Development,
Wages and Allowances, General Working Conditions and Labour Welfare to
the acceptance of the alternative hypothesis that there is a significant difference
in the perception about the industrial relation and labour productivity which
does not differ among the cadre.
2
06
Ta
ble
- 6
.23
Co
rrel
ati
on
Ma
trix
fo
r th
e p
erfo
rm
an
ce o
f D
imen
sio
ns
an
d Q
ua
nti
tati
ve
Va
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ble
s
A
GE
S
EX
E
XP
W
ages
an
d
All
ow
an
ces
Ind
ust
rial
Dis
pu
tes
Gen
eral
Work
ing
Con
dit
ion
s
Ind
ust
rial
Rel
ati
on
s
Work
ers
Part
icip
ati
on
Lev
el o
f
Sati
sfa
ctio
n
Lab
ou
r
Wel
fare
En
vir
on
-
men
t
Tra
inin
g
an
d
Dev
elo
p-
men
t
AG
E
1
SE
X
.14
8(*
*)
1
EX
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E
-0.0
28
0
.02
4
1
wag
es a
nd
allo
wan
ces
.46
5(*
*)
-.1
16(*
) .1
57(*
*)
1
Indust
rial
dis
pute
s .1
62(*
*)
0.0
61
0
.068
.2
29(*
*)
1
Gen
eral
work
ing
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itio
ns
.37
1(*
*)
0.0
3
.26
4(*
*)
.32
9(*
*)
.34
9(*
*)
1
Indust
rial
rel
atio
ns
-.17
7(*
*)
0.0
51
-.
379(*
*)
-.23
1(*
*)
-.43
8(*
*)
-.48
8(*
*)
1
work
ers
par
tici
pat
ion
.38
2(*
*)
.19
7(*
*)
-0.0
67
.2
03(*
*)
.28
8(*
*)
.49
2(*
*)
-.17
5(*
*)
1
Lev
el o
f sa
tisf
acti
on
0.0
28
-0
.08
.4
12(*
*)
0.0
66
.3
56(*
*)
.29
6(*
*)
-.64
3(*
*)
-.13
9(*
*)
1
Lab
our
wel
fare
.2
04(*
*)
.24
0(*
*)
-.1
07(*
) -0
.048
.1
37(*
*)
.31
9(*
*)
-.15
8(*
*)
.50
7(*
*)
.112(*
) 1
Envir
on
men
t -0
.073
-.
15
5(*
*)
-0.0
34
.2
87(*
*)
-.20
3(*
*)
-.45
5(*
*)
.42
6(*
*)
-.34
6(*
*)
-.17
3(*
*)
-.4
00()
1
Tra
inin
g a
nd
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elop
men
t .2
54(*
*)
-.26
1(*
*)
0.0
38
0
.007
-0
.009
0
.014
.0
90(*
) -.
171
(**)
-0.0
67
-.
100(*
) .2
23(*
*)
1
**
Corr
elat
ion i
s si
gnif
ican
t at
the
0.0
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evel
(1-t
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d).
*
Corr
elat
ion i
s si
gnif
ican
t at
the
0.0
5 l
evel
(1-t
aile
d).
207
The above Table 6.23 shows the relationship between Socio- economic
data and Industrial Relation and Labour productivity. Socio- economic
variables such as age, sex and experience and other variables are training and
development, level of satisfaction, working conditions and industrial relation
etc. The relationship found is both positive and negative. Positive correlation
exhibits between age, sex and other variables like wages and allowance,
industrial disputes, general working conditions, training and development, level
of satisfaction and Labour welfare. It indicates that the greater influence of
these factors leads to productivity and Job satisfaction. Industrial relation,
environment and worker participation being negative creates the lesser job
satisfaction.
The table provides a comparison of mean for each level of work against
each other level of work. The first set of rows compares low with each of
medium and high. The second set of rows compares the mean of training and
development by the medium. The first set of rows sees that the difference
between the means when comparing low with medium is –0.165, and in the
second set of rows when comparing medium with low the mean difference is
–0.165. Since this is effectively the same, comparison is looked at the other
way.
The important aspect of this table is the significant column that provides
the exact significance of the difference between the means. Where this is less
than 0.05 next to the value in the mean difference column, indicating a
208
significant difference between the two sample being compared, at the
significant level of 0.05. Industry is a sub-system of the society. It draws its
manpower from the society. Obviously, industry has an obligation or duty
towards its respondents to look after their welfare. According to this principle,
to provide welfare facilities to the respondents is the social responsibility of
industry.
6.5. Labour Productivity
Productivity is doing the right thing and doing it correctly or in a better
way or better way of doing things. A survey on management attitudes to
labour productivity revealed that a clear understanding by managers of what
constitutes productivity was the most important factor to increasing labour
productivity. From the above it will be clear that in labour productivity, the
role of human element has to be acknowledged. Even though all the factors of
performance are adequate, the same worker may achieve different levels of
labour productivity at different times.
6.5.1. Labour Productivity Movement in India
The National Productivity Council was established in 1958. It is an
autonomous body with a maximum of 60 members with equal representation to
Government and private industrialists. In its first meeting, the National
Productivity Council decided on an Eight-Point Programme. It was decided to
make all concerned conscious of the importance of increasing labour
209
productivity, to provide for necessary training facilities, to provide experts to
Regional Productivity Councils, to exchange ideas and promote visits to
developed industrial establishments, to conduct research in productivity, to
promote visits to developed countries to learn from their experience and to
invite from abroad experts to provide necessary guidance.
6.5.2. ILO and labour productivity
International Labour Organization “understanding of the role of
productivity matters in a socio-economic development is that productivity
growth is essential for socio-economic development: labour productivity
growth is a leading factor in raising standard of living of workers: labour
productivity growth must generate additional resources for additional
employment opportunities and it is a common concern for Government,
employers and the union. The ILO conducted a series of workshops and
concluded that any strategy to achieve productivity improvement at the
enterprise level is to give close attention to labour relations together with other
technical and organizational factors. It means the necessity to create a co-
operative atmosphere in the enterprise through regular consultations and
negotiations. Other important requirements are having a consultative
framework, information sharing, system of communications both ways between
management and worker’s grievance procedure and gain-sharing system of
productivity improvement”.15
15 Chalapathi Rao, 1995, “Labour Management Relation’s and Collective Bargaining”, New Delhi,
Anmol Publications Pvt. Ltd., p. 129.
210
6.5.3. Wages and labour Productivity
An interesting development in wage determination has been labour
productivity standard. This is based on the fact that labour productivity increase
is also the result of employee satisfaction and contribution to the organization.
But wage labour productivity linkage does not appear to be so easy since many
problems crop up in respect of the concept and measurement of productivity.
Although the wage is not linked directly to the labour productivity in an
organization, changes in labour productivity have their impact on
remuneration. These criteria received consideration of wage boards, not only
because it constituted a factor in the fixation of ‘fair wage’ but also because it
was directly related to such questions as desirability of extending the system of
payment by result.
6.5.4. Linkage between Pay Structure and Labour Productivity
The economic progress of East Asian countries in the era of
globalization and liberalization has highlighted the issue of the effectiveness of
such a strategy. As a classic example, Japan has experienced a successful
restructuring of the economy by linking pay structure with labour productivity.
The country’s distinct labour practice can be explained by the post war boom in
labour productivity growth (Hashimto, 1990).” In 1960s, pressure was mounted
on the renewal of labour practices aiming to link labour productivity
improvement with the distribution of gain by encouraging co-operation
between labour productivity and management. Countries like Singapore and
211
Hong Kong pay incentive wages above the annual wages highlighting the
importance of wage labour productivity relationships. In an effort to test the
extent of relationship between pay and productivity growth, Fuess (2002)
employs the technique of Geweke (1982, 1984) and arrives at the conclusion
that efficiency wage behaviour is very limited to certain sectors rather labour
productivity gains which have followed increase in contractual pay for some
key manufacturing sectors.16 Mankoottam (2003) investigated labour
productivity linked wage scheme for some public, private and multinational
corporations and concluded that in recent years some Indian companies have
been able to use the process of labour productivity bargaining as an effective
mechanism to bring about successful changes in the workplace,17 utilising
relevant time series econometric technique. In India, the wage- labour
productivity relationship can result in circular self-generating mechanism
where increase in labour productivity leads to an increase in wages and
increase in wages motivates the workers to further increase the labour
productivity (Narayan, 2003).18 In particular it asks whether Indian
manufacturing follows efficiency wage or performance based pay system or the
both. The point of departure is that the paper examines the industry wise tests
for causality between wage and labour productivity. Later the nature of these
industries is investigated on the basis of their labour intensity.
16 Geweke, J., 1984, “Measurement of Linear Dependence and Feedback between Time Series”,
Journal of American Statistical Association, 79 p. 907-15. 17
Mamkoottam, k. 2003, “Labour and change: Essays on Globalization”, Technological Change and Labour in India, Response Books, New Delhi, p. 212.
18 Narayan, L., 2003, Productivity and wages in Indian Industries, New Delhi, Discovery, p. 110.
212
6.5.5. Wages Increase and also Labour Productivity Increase
The relationship between and labour productivity is a well recognized
issue. During the years of liberalization, India’s organized manufacturing
sector witnessed a share and persistent increase in labour productivity of 6.12
per cent per annum. Meanwhile, average real wage has also increased but not
significantly as the growth of labour productivity. On an average during the last
couple of decades, wage rate registered a growth of 3.40 per cent per annum.
Now the question is whether real wage rate and labour productivity represent
an important nexus in the organized manufacturing industries in India. The
technological progress in the form of new products is inevitably linked with an
increase in labour productivity. Producers are concerned with the pressure of
external competition which required them to increase labour productivity and
efficiency to keep speedy output growth. They may provide extra benefits to
the workers in order to raise their productivity. In other words, employers want
to pay their workers more in order to get more out of them. This shifts the
employer to adopt a more capital intensive technology with matching
manpower. The Technical and better qualified hands have progressively
replaced the unskilled workforce. The demand for skilled workers has
continued to rise and has given boost to the wages in this category. Although
rising labour productivity is a source of wage increase, the causality also runs
in the opposite direction.
213
The following table reveals the Labour productivity of the two select
units namely SDCL Ltd and SPIC Ltd.
Table – 6.24
Labour productivity-measurement based on number of employees (SDCL)
S.
No. Year No. of Employees
Output
(Rs. in Crores)
Productivity
(Rs. in Crores)
1. 2005-06 2950 3700.5 1.2544
2. 2006-07 2950 4059.11 1.3759
3. 2007-08 2950 4386.58 1.4869
4. 2008-09 2950 4656.35 1.5784
5. 2009-10 2950 5286.39 1.7919
Source: Secondary data, Company Annual Report.
Table – 6.25
Labour productivity-measurement based on number of employees (SPIC)
S.
No. Year No. of Employees
Output
(Rs. in. Crores)
Productivity
(Rs. in Crores)
1 2005-06 1250 1487.83 1.190
2 2006-07 1250 1900.07 1.520
3 2007-08 1250 2181.61 1.745
4 2008-09 750 1476.73 1.969
5 2009-10 227 477.84 2.105
Source: Secondary data, Company Annual Report.
Labour Productivity = Output in Rupees
No. of Employees
No of employees = As per the record
Output (Sales in Rs.) = Bulk drugs and Intermediates + Sale of
By product + Trade Sales
214
The Labour productivity for workers has been calculated for the year
2005-06 to 2009-10 for the both the units that is SDCL and SPIC. With regard
to SDCL labour productivity in money value has been increased Rs.1.2544
crores to Rs.1.7919 crores. In the same way in SPIC the labour productivity is
found increase from Rs.1.190 crores to Rs.2.105 crores.
SDCL, the welfare facility provided by the industry is sufficient and
hence the labour productivity is higher every year. In our practical observation
in both selected units they provide a better welfare scheme which in turn also
increases high productivity. The forgoing tables reveal that year by year labour
productivity of both units is on the increasing trend. Hence, it is assumed that
the welfare facility, job satisfaction and safety measures has an impact on high
productivity. In this chapter, we have discussed about medical facilities,
provisions of company quarters, nearness of residence, staying of employees,
mode of conveyance, medical benefit, periodical medical checkup, canteen
facilities, time keeping system, recreational facilities, labour productivity and
the attitude of employees towards the management.
In both the selected units the industrial relations and labour productivity
are acceptable. While we compare the units, SDCL is better than SPIC. We
discussed three dimensions such as job satisfaction, safety measure and
between labour welfare. Alone good for satisfaction stands, first safety
measure ranks second and labour welfare stands the third.
In the ensuing chapter, a summary of findings, suggestions and
conclusion are provided.