Informal Sector Labour

In the absence of formal employment opportunities in Uttarakhand, the working population relies heavily on informal and seasonal employment. Many are compelled to engage in casual labour across sectors such as road and other construction work, small eateries, agriculture, tourism, and MGNREGS. The nature of casual work in the region is precarious, offering low wages, minimal social protection and dependence on physically demanding tasks. The economy is further strained by the impacts of climate change and ongoing outmigration, which deepen the instability of casual employment.

Women are particularly affected, as they contribute significantly to casual labour in agriculture, road construction, NREGS, forestry, and household-based crafts. Despite their vital role, this work is often underpaid and lacks formal recognition, further marginalising women within the informal sector.

We work for the overall improvement of the livelihood situation in the region. In addition, we aim to:

• Support the registration of labour on the e-Shram portal
• Organise ‘Job-Mango Abhiyan’ (job seeking campaign) under the MGNREGS to ensure employment opportunities for rural workers
• Assist labourers, particularly in road construction, with wage recovery from contractors
• Facilitate the casual labourers to access to social security schemes, health insurance and other benefits
• Facilitate good implementation of livelihood schemes like National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and connect with skill development programmes