Tackling Absenteeism in Indian Factories: A Call for Holistic Development

Absenteeism is a silent yet significant challenge in Indian industries, with an average rate of around 8%—noticeably higher than the global average of 5%. In specific sectors like apparel and footwear, this rate can soar between 15-20%, creating a ripple effect that impacts productivity, morale, and ultimately, the bottom line.

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with my team to dig deeper into the root causes of absenteeism. What emerged was a powerful realization: many of the issues our employees face aren't isolated problems but symptoms of broader systemic challenges.

Here are some of the eye-opening reasons that surfaced:

1. Lack of Basic Amenities: Imagine having to take a day off work just to secure water for your family. This is a harsh reality for many of our workers, who often lack access to even the most basic necessities.
2. Struggles to Make Ends Meet: The need to take time off to refill cooking gas cylinders is more than just an inconvenience—it's a stark reminder of the financial pressures our people face daily.
3. Infrastructure Challenges: Power outages and sweltering heat lead to sleepless nights and sheer exhaustion. The absence of reliable infrastructure directly impacts our workers' health and their ability to perform at their best.
4. Environmental Barriers: Monsoon rains and subsequent waterlogging can render commutes impossible. These environmental factors, though outside our immediate control, drastically affect attendance and productivity.

These issues beg the question: Why can’t we, as an industry and society, build an ecosystem that supports not just organizational growth but also the development of our communities and nation at large?

At first glance, these challenges might seem like they fall outside the purview of any single factory or organization. But I firmly believe that businesses have a responsibility to support their workforce and contribute to the broader community. After all, our people are our greatest asset, and their well-being is intricately linked to our success.

With more businesses migrating to India from other Asian countries, we stand at a crossroads. We have an unparalleled opportunity to leverage our vast working population and build a thriving industrial ecosystem. However, if we ignore the existing infrastructure gaps and fail to address the challenges faced by our workforce, we risk missing out on this golden opportunity.

The truth is, manufacturing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s the people—the hands, hearts, and minds behind the machines—who make it all possible. It's high time we recognize the interconnectedness of our success with the well-being of our community and nation.

Investing in holistic development is not just an ethical imperative; it’s a strategic one. By prioritizing our employees' well-being and fostering an environment where they can thrive, we’re not just building stronger businesses—we’re paving the way for a prosperous future for everyone involved.

Let’s rise to the challenge, together!!

#leather #apparel #footwear