Abstract Book of the 8th World Conference on Social Sciences
Year: 2025
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Assessing Wellbeing in the Indian Leather Industry: Evidence from Kanpur’s Factory Workers’
Ankur Shukla, Pulak Mishra, Priyadarshi Patnaik
ABSTRACT:
The wellbeing of workers in labour-intensive industries like leather manufacturing is vital for economic sustainability. This study investigates the multidimensional wellbeing of workers in Kanpur’s leather cluster, a hub of India’s export economy. The study follows a mixed methodological framework using survey questionnaires as primary data and gathering insights from secondary data. The survey conducted on factory workers (N=103) captured their demographics and five dimensions of wellbeing: personal wellbeing, health, material wellbeing, workplace wellbeing, and relational wellbeing. Descriptive statistics and stepwise regression analysis were conducted on the survey data to identify the influence of socioeconomic, workplace, and demographic factors on the different dimensions and overall wellbeing. Descriptive statistics gave inputs into the stark differences in education levels, skill type, and gender differences. Stepwise regression analysis revealed gender, job security, job duration, age, and education as critical determinants of overall wellbeing. In addition, skill type, weekly working hours, wages, and housing status of the workers significantly predicted the outcomes of the different wellbeing dimensions, discussed elaborately in the findings. Wage inequality and gender disparities further exacerbated challenges, with women and unskilled workers disproportionately affected. Findings underscore the negative impacts of informal employment and highlight the importance of supportive workplace environments. Policy recommendations include promoting formal employment, strengthening health and safety measures, addressing wage inequality, and providing targeted support for vulnerable groups. Incorporating wellbeing metrics into industry evaluations can ensure holistic labour assessments. Future research could explore multiple such clusters and qualitative perspectives to deepen understanding.
Keywords: informality; multidimensional wellbeing; regression; sustainability; workplace