Why in the news? 

Trade unions can play a pivotal role in producing labour statistics

Issues related to labour statistics

• Lack of Rigorous Labour Statistics: Labour statistics are not as robust as economic and industrial data. While institutions like the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) and the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) provide valuable information.
• Voluntary Reporting of Work Stoppages: Data collection on work stoppages relies on voluntary reporting, which may lead to underreporting or incomplete information. This lack of comprehensive data on strikes and other work stoppages affects the accuracy and reliability of labour statistics.
• Limited Use of Evidence in Social Dialogue:Lack of evidence-based arguments in these dialogues undermines their effectiveness, leading to a perception of the ILC as a mere “talking shop.”
• Class-Based Opinions without Data Support: Stakeholders often advocate for labour reforms based on “class-based opinions” rather than credible data or empirical evidence.

The role of trade unions in producing labour statistics:

• Data Collection on Labour Inspection: Trade unions can gather information and statistics on labour inspection practices, including the number of sanctioned and employed inspectors, inspection frequency, and coverage. This data can highlight deficiencies in inspection systems and advocate for their strengthening.
• Monitoring Retrenchment and Closure Applications: Trade unions can track retrenchment and closure applications submitted to labour departments, along with permissions granted or refused. This data can provide insights into the prevalence of denials and the impact of labour regulations on job security.
• Analysis of Strikes and Lockouts: Trade unions can utilize data on strikes and lockouts published by agencies like the Labour Bureau to analyze trends and patterns. This analysis can inform discussions on labour laws and industrial relations, challenging the need for harsher clauses on strikes.
• Evidence-based arguments: Trade unions can use objective data and empirical studies to contest labour reforms in policy debates. By presenting evidence-based arguments, trade unions can influence decision-making processes and advocate for policies that promote workers’ rights and well-being.

Conclusion:  

Implement more robust and standardized data collection methods for labour statistics to ensure accuracy and consistency across different sources. This may involve leveraging technology, such as digital reporting systems, to streamline data collection processes.

Mains PYQ 

Q Account for the failure of manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labour-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labour-intensive rather than capital-intensive exports.

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