Gurugram Industries Extend Incentives to Lure Back Migrant Workers After Exodus
In the wake of a significant 40% reduction in the workforce due to a mass exodus of migrants from Gurugram industries, enterprises are adopting proactive measures to entice their return. This phenomenon was spurred by communal clashes and primarily affected Muslim migrant workers, constituting a substantial 70% of the city’s industrial labor force. The aftermath of these clashes has been particularly detrimental to key industrial zones such as Manesar, Khandsa, Sohna, and Pataudi, with the garment industry, comprising nearly 1,500 units, bearing the brunt of the impact.
Severe Impact on Garment Factories
The discord led to the departure or concealment of the predominant Muslim workforce, causing pronounced repercussions for industries
Notably, regions like Manesar, Khandsa, Sohna, and Pataudi were disproportionately affected, with the garment industry experiencing the most significant setback
In light of the ongoing efforts by local authorities to restore trust and harmony, industrial entities are engaging in various initiatives aimed at coaxing the displaced workers to resume their duties. Among these initiatives, special bonuses and enhanced security assurances are being extended to encourage a swift return to work.
Animesh Saxena from the Garment Exporters Association remarked, “The garment units in Khandsa and Manesar are the worst hit by the exodus. This is a lean month but production will start in full swing next month and we will have to get the workforce. A majority of the workers are from a particular community, who are irreplaceable. Besides the bonus, the industry is also offering a raise to them to report back for work. If the workers don’t return, we will be hit in a big way.” With approximately 3,000 registered industrial units in Gurugram, the impact has varied based on their proximity to the Delhi border. Those situated near Udyog Vihar, which relies on a local workforce, have experienced less disruption, while other units have faced more substantial challenges.
Gurugram Industrial Association President GN Mangla likened the situation to a Covid-like crisis, lamenting the tarnished image of Gurugram as an investment destination. Simultaneously, the Haryana chapter of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has appealed to industrial associations to intervene and halt the departure of Muslim workers from the Manesar region following the recent communal clashes.
