Trade Unions in Tiruppur, India
A trade union is an organisation of workers. Such an association is meant to achieve some common goals of workers such as better work conditions and working hours. Another set of goals is health insurance and retirement plans. The Trade Unions Act, 1926 regulates trade unions in India. As per the Act, trade unions regulate employer-employee relationships.
History of trade unions in India
During their rule, Britishers set up textile mills in Madras, Bombay, Surat and Calcutta.A boom in the textile industry took place in late 19th century. This led to massive recruitment in these mills. This gave rise to the need for a regulating law.The British enacted the Factories Act in 1881.This act laid down some strict laws. These laws favoured owners over the workers.As the First World War began, these textile mills faced more work. But more work did not mean more staff. Working conditions deteriorated further. That is how unionism in India started.
Laws governing trade unions in India
In India, trade unions are governed under national and state-specific legislations. The right to form and join a trade union, and engage in collective bargaining etc. are provided under these laws. Also, the Constitution of India guarantees a fundamental right “to form associations or unions.” The Trade Unions Act, 1926 is the original act related to labour unions in India. The Act provides for formation and registration of trade unions and in certain respects to define the law relating to registered Trade Unions. The Industrial Dispute Act, 1947 also deals with trade unions. It primarily regulates the rights of employers and employees in the investigation and settlement of industrial disputes.
What does a trade union do?
A trade union acts as a “lobby” that negotiates with the management. Negotiations may take place for a lot of relevant issues. Such as higher pay, better work conditions, or employee insurance. The primary goal of a trade union is to further worker interests and welfare.
Main functions of a trade union are:
♦ Speaking on behalf of the members.
♦ Providing guidance to members on work related problems.
♦ Negotiating with employers and management on behalf of its members.
The function of trade unions is to collective bargaining for economic considerations. However, over time, trade unions have begun to play various other roles as well.Besides aiming to improve the terms and conditions of employment, trade unions now play a critical role in employee welfare activities. Trade unions provide a forum to help facilitate better industrial relations and improve productivity as well.