Challenges of Trade Union Movement in India

Abstract

The trade union movement in India is facing many challenges. The finances of the unions are generally in a bad shape. Multiplicity of
unions and inter-union rivalry makes it difficult to take a constructive approach to problems and issues. Heterogeneity of membership
renders the unions unstable, weak, fragmented, uncoordinated and amorphous. Besides this, majority of unions are managed
by professional politicians and lawyers who have no experience of physical work and no commitment to the organization. These
outside leaders may give precedence to their personal interests and prejudices than welfare of the workers. Development of internal
leadership is also not encouraged by unscrupulous politicians in the garb of union leaders.
Keeping in mind all these challenges various scholars and practitioners have suggested certain measures to strengthen trade union
movement in India. Developing internal leadership, presenting a united labor front for bargaining, ensuring financial stability of
unions, having paid full time union office bearers, extending the boundaries of trade unions to unorganized sector and ensuring
strong central legislation for recognition of representative union are some of the measures that can change the face of trade unionism
in India.