Opportunities for Disabled in the Indian Garment Industry

Source: The Stitch Times

Introduction

The human body functions with the help of wide range ofsystems and, damage to any system via diseases, accidents or genetic aberrationmay give rise to special needs. As we know, the world of occupation is usuallydesigned for the able-bodied. Consideration for the special needs of personswith disabilities do not form the part of the work processes. Therefore, it's amajor area of concern that requires immediate attention, in order to open prospects for the disabled in certain fields where with adequate training they can performvarious tasks successfully and competently.

Garment industry is one such pitch that can provide immense scope for employment as, the manufacturing process of garments involvesrepetitive, routine and continuous operations with less variation in style. Theindustry therefore, has a huge potential in providing gainful employment onseveral tasks ranging from simple to complex; from unskilled to highly skilleddepending upon the aptitude and education of the person.

It has been heartening to note that in recent timesawareness on capabilities of persons with disabilities is slowly but surelyincreasing. Much of the credit for this must go to activists who have broughttheir potential centre stage in all areas of activities through awarenessraising programmes and by adopting a 'rights approach'. However much more needsto be done. The philosophy of 'inclusion' needs to be pushed with more energyand enthusiasm. This can happen most effectively by facilitating linkagesbetween the stakeholders, namely the persons with disabilities, traininginstitutions, employers, government, industry associations and the NGOs.

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About the Research

This research study is a joint effort of Ms. Manpreet Chahal (Lecturer), Dr. Seema Sekhri (Reader) and Dr. Ritu Mathur (Reader) of Department ofFabric and Apparel Science, Lady Irwin College, New Delhi

Originallypublished in The Stitch Times; May 2009