Home care workers in Kerala: ISS-IUCSSR- workshop stresses the need for formalisation

A workshop organized by Mahatma Gandhi University in collaboration with the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS), The Hague, and the Inter University Centre for Social Science Research and Extension (IUCSSRE), highlighted the challenges faced by home care workers in Kerala. Held at TMAM Research and Orientation, Kottayam, the workshop aimed to shed light on the working conditions of home care workers, the roles of agencies involved, and the policies governing the home care industry. Participants shared insights into the various challenges workers face, including social stigma, exploitation, lack of labour rights, and insecure working conditions. The speakers emphasized the urgent need for formalisation, calling for a comprehensive policy framework to protect workers from institutional exploitation and improve working conditions.

The speakers highlighted Kerala’s impending transition into an elderly society, as a significant portion of the population crosses the age of 60. This demographic shift, coupled with migration and unemployment, raises pressing concerns about elderly care. With the home care industry in India growing rapidly, valued at USD 7.4 billion and expected to expand by 19.27% annually until 2030, the workshop highlighted the industry’s increasing role in catering to the elderly and individuals with physical or mental care needs. However, the reliance on informal labour and cheap workforce, alongside the gendered dynamics of the industry, poses significant challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic further showed the essential role of home care work and the importance of regulatory intervention.

Speakers at the workshop included the Project Director and Faculty Dr. Sreerekha (ISS), Dr. T.K. Anandi (Gender Consultant), Dr. Sreerupa (Institute of Social Studies Trust), Dr. Reshma Bharadwaj (Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit), Midhun Krishna (Dept of Social Justice), Rinta John (Centre for Management Development), Sri. P.U Thomas (Navajeevan Trust) and K.M. Seethi (Director, IUCSSRE). They called for formalisation of the sector, regulation of private agencies, and better training and wage standards to ensure the protection and recognition of home care workers’ rights in Kerala. David Johny, Neena NM, Athulya, Manoj Mathew et al. were the workshop coordinators.