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20 September, 2024 In early September, IndustriALL organized workshops in Kolkata, India with union leaders from the base metal and mining sectors in the country, detailing workers challenges in these sectors.
In the base metal workshop, held on 7-8 September, a total of 29 unionists participated. Union leaders represented major base metal factories in the country, such as BALCO, TATA steel and other steel plants in Bhilai, Visakhapatnam, Durgapur, Bokaro, Burnpur, Rourkela. In the mining workshop, held on 9-10 September, around 22 unionists, from subsidiaries of Coal India Limited, National Mineral Development Corporation, Tata Collieries, and iron ore mines of Steel Authority of India, participated.
Union leaders mentioned high production pressures, a severe shortage of qualified personnel, the ever-growing number of precarious workers, privatization of public sector steel companies, outsourcing of mines and mine closures, and serious health and safety concerns in the workplace.
Additionally, low representation of women and young workers in unions, and declining union membership were also flagged as urgent issues by the union leaders. Technological changes and climate change pose further challenges to workers in this sector, including creating job insecurity.
Participants emphasized the need to strengthen union power, build more inclusive unions, and fight against government’s policies on privatisation of public sector companies and precarious employment. Another item highlighted was the inclusion of unions in the discussion on corporate policies regarding ESG (environmental, social and governance) standards. The workshops underscored the importance of union solidarity and effective strategies in addressing the challenges faced by workers in India’s base metal and mining industries.
The IndustriALL regional office team also met with the chairman of Coal India Limited to learn more about the company’s plans regarding Just Transition and stressed the need to include trade unions while formulating these policies.
The IndustriALL team also visited Nimcha Collieries, an underground mine, and North Searsole open cast mine, both operated by Eastern Coalfields Limited, a subsidiary of Coal India Limited. The aim of the visit was to understand the working conditions and occupational health and safety in mines.
Ashutosh Bhattacharya, IndustriALL South Asia regional secretary said:
“IndustriALL affiliates and trade unions can play a critical role in ensuring a just transition that prioritizes workers' rights and safeguards their livelihoods. Their active participation is essential in shaping policies that not only address climate change but also guarantee health and safety in the workplace. A sustainable future must be inclusive, fair, and secure for all workers. We extend our solidarity to all affiliates in India as they work towards shaping a sustainable industry.”