The Ministry of Women and Child Development is considering a policy with a three-pronged agenda:
The policy will include three key factors, the first being minimum protection, including minimum remuneration, insurance, childcare, skill development and literacy programmes.
Second, access to market and economic resources including raw material, marketing infrastructure, technology, credit and information.
The last point will include a voice in which voluntary organisations and other forums of women’s voice are recognised.
I don’t like how the article begins: “Qualified and skilled housewives can now cheer up with the government expected to come out soon with a national policy for home-based workers to enable them to work with ease. ” It seems obvious to me that this policy is not geared simply towards middle class housewives, but those more underprivileged women who are working at home on an informal basis.
It is good news, though, that now apparently even senior ministry officials have recognised that home-based workers play a huge role in economic growth.
“They should benefit for their role. Women are sincere and committed towards the work. If the benefits are ensured their contribution will increase. The policy is required in the larger interest.”
Sincere and committed? Sure, since they haven’t had much of a choice in terms of alternate committments. Does that mean that if they weren’t, they wouldn’t think of formulating such a policy??
