Working Mothers Need Childcare

Why A 2018-Cividep Film On Lack of Creches In Bengaluru's Garment Factories Is Still Relevant

To truly honor workers' rights this May Day, Cividep India revisits a pressing issue: the lack of childcare facilities for working mothers, a critical barrier to women's labour force participation.Our documentary "Fragile Fabric" (2018) highlights the challenges faced by garment workers like Nandhini and Radha, who face long hours while worrying about their young children left unattended due to inadequate childcare options. Despite the Indian Factories Act (1948) mandating childcare facilities for factories (with above 30 women workers), many units fall short.In the years leading up to 2019, Cividep, alongside local and international organisations, advocated consistently for improved childcare in Bengaluru's garment factories. The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR)? had also been actively involved and Cividep supported the Commission?in conducting a survey of the garment factories regarding childcare facilities. This led to significant actions by supplier factories and international brands.Childcare Remains A Critical IssueBut why are we talking about it now??As Gopinath Parakuni, Cividep Founder and Strategy Director, says that the situation has become even more critical with a growing number of interstate migrant workers joining the garment industry in South India. With this the demand for childcare facilities has significantly increased while the facilities remain inadequate, he says.

According to Deepika Rao, Executive Director of Cividep, a 2019 study revealed various shortcomings in existing childcare facilities, including poor quality of food, education, and lack of accessibility. She says that the situation worsened during the Covid-19 pandemic?with many factories using it as an excuse to discontinue childcare altogether.. The solution is clear: every factory must have a creche. This simple provision is essential for enhancing women's participation in the workforce and ensuring that working mothers can pursue their careers without added stress. This May Day, let's have a renewed commitment to social justice, as ILO puts it in this article, by urging businesses and governments to take this simple step. Happy Labour Day!