How can workers be protected in the unorganised sector?

How can workers be protected in the unorganised sector?
Or
Why is agriculture an activity of unorganised sector in India? Explain.

Answer:
There is a need for protection and support of the workers in the unorganised sector.
In rural areas:

  • In the rural areas, the unorganised sector mostly comprises of landless agricultural labourers, small and marginal farmers, sharecroppers and artisans.
  • Nearly 80 per cent of the rural households in India are in small and marginal farmer category.
  • These farmers need to be supported through timely provision of seeds, agricultural inputs, credits, storage facilities and marketing outlets, etc.

In urban areas:

  • In the urban areas, the unorganised sector comprises mainly of the workers in small- scale industries, casual workers in construction, trade and transport, etc., and those who work as street vendors, head load porters and rag pickers, etc.
  • Small-scale industries also need government’s support for procuring and processing raw material and for marketing of output.
  • The casual workers are required to be protected in their jobs and wages.

SC and STs:

  • Majority of workers from the scheduled castes, tribes and backward communities find themselves in the unorganised sector.
  • Besides getting the irregular and low-paid work, these workers also face social discrimination.
  • Protection and support to the unorganised sector workers is thus, necessary for both economic and social development.