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5 March, 2025A two-day workshop was organized for unions in the cement sector in Mumbai, India, on 26–27 February 2025. The key issues discussed during the presentations and discussions were the rising number of precarious workers, which has increased to 83 per cent. The recruitment of permanent workers has been halted for the past ten years, with no new hires to replace retiring employees. Organizing contract workers remains a significant challenge, leading to a weakening of unions due to the declining density of members.
The agreements signed in the Cement Wage Board, a tripartite advisory body responsible for determining wage structures, working conditions and benefits for workers in the cement industry of India, primarily apply to permanent workers and only to companies that are members of the Cement Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI). With the exit of Holcim from India, the two major employers in the sector are now Adani and Ultratech, neither of which is a member of CMAI.
Participants expressed grave concerns about the increasing number of workplace accidents in recent years. IndustriALL and its affiliates have been actively reporting these incidents through the media. Although safety committees comprising both management and union representatives exist, their effectiveness has been questionable due to a decline in safety standards. Unfortunately, in most reported cases, contract workers are the primary victims due to inadequate training and supervision.
The two major IndustriALL affiliates, INCWF and AICWF, primarily consist of permanent workers but have been advocating for contract workers on issues related to wages, working conditions, and safety. Another affiliate, PCSS, representing contract workers, continues to fight for workers' rights and expects support from permanent workers' unions during their struggles.
Delegates congratulated INCWF, which in February successfully signed an agreement with the Adani Group, securing a commitment for regular dialogue on improving working conditions, including occupational health and safety (OHS).
During the workshop, unions developed a six-month work plan focused on organizing contract workers and implementing measures to reduce workplace accidents. The plan clearly defines responsibilities and assigns specific individuals to ensure progress within the given timeframe. Additionally, the groups identified key issues to be raised during negotiations with management.