Manushi- Domestic Workers Trade Union
The Centre for Women's Development and Research (CWDR) organized women domestic workers into the trade union "Manushi," with nearly 5,000 members. Manushi advocates for the rights of domestic workers through campaigns and aligns its efforts with the ILO’s “Decent Work for Domestic Workers” convention. It also fights against workplace abuse and violence.
Manushi raises awareness about unpaid care work that women perform, which often goes unrecognized, calling for fair compensation and support for both paid and unpaid domestic work.
The union provides education on women’s and workers’ rights, motivates members to join the Tamil Nadu Government Domestic Workers Welfare Board, and offers skills training and job placement services. Today, Manushi operates independently
Key initiative focuses on
Education on Rights: Providing comprehensive training on women’s and workers’ rights to ensure domestic workers are fully aware of their entitlements and legal protections.
Skills Training: Offering a variety of skill-enhancing programs, including vocational training and specialized sessions such as Kitchen Gardening and Terrace Gardening. These programs not only improve economic stability but also foster a sense of self-reliance and contribute to household sustainability.
Job Placement Services: Acting as a job placement agency, Manushi connects its members with reliable employment opportunities, ensuring fair wages and better working conditions.
Entrepreneurship and Enterprises: Supporting members in income-generating activities such as catering services and the production of eco-friendly soaps and cleaning solutions, thus promoting entrepreneurship.
Manushi also assists its members in registering with the Tamil Nadu Welfare Board for Domestic Workers (TNWB) to access welfare schemes that support their well-being, empowering them to lead dignified and independent lives.