Living and Working Realities of Migrant Garment Workers in Urban India: A Study of Delhi-NCR

Abstract

The garment industry is one of the major sources of employment for migrant workers in urban India. A large proportion of workers in this sector migrate from economically weaker regions in search of better livelihood opportunities. However, despite providing employment, the industry is often associated with informal work arrangements and difficult living conditions. Understanding the socio-economic background and employment realities of garment workers is important for addressing issues related to labour welfare and urban inequality. The present study aims to examine the socio-economic profile, migration background, housing conditions, access to basic amenities, and employment patterns of garment industry workers in the Delhi– NCR region. The study is based on primary data collected from garment workers using structured interviews. Descriptive analysis was used to examine key socio-economic and employment characteristics of the respondents. The findings reveal that the garment workforce is largely dominated by migrant workers, particularly from economically weaker states. Most workers live in rented accommodations located in slum settlements, where overcrowding, sanitation problems, water shortages, and high rent are common. Access to basic amenities such as tap water and private sanitation facilities remains limited for many households. The study also highlights that employment in the garment industry is largely informal, with the majority of workers engaged in contractual, casual, or piece-rate work without job security or formal benefits.