What forces conspire to keep the workers in the bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty?

Several forces contribute to keeping workers in the bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty:

1. Exploitative Labor Practices: Many workers in the bangle industry are subjected to exploitative labor practices, including low wages, long working hours, and lack of job security. They may be paid below minimum wage or forced to work in unsafe conditions without access to basic labor rights.

2. Lack of Social Security: Workers in the bangle industry often lack social security benefits such as health insurance, pension plans, or unemployment benefits. This leaves them vulnerable to economic shocks and unable to cope with emergencies or unexpected expenses.

3. Debt Bond: Some workers in the bangle industry may be trapped in debt bond, where they are forced to work to repay loans or advances given by employers or middlemen. High interest rates and exploitative lending practices perpetuate a cycle of debt and poverty.

4. Informal Employment: Many workers in the bangle industry are employed in the informal sector, where they lack formal employment contracts, legal protections, or access to social security benefits. This leaves them vulnerable to exploitation and unable to demand fair wages or working conditions.

5. Lack of Skill Development: Limited access to skill development and training opportunities prevents workers from acquiring the skills needed to advance to higher-paying jobs or industries. This perpetuates their reliance on low-paying and exploitative jobs in the bangle industry.

6. Market Dynamics: Fluctuations in demand and market prices for bangles can impact the income and livelihoods of workers in the industry. Seasonal variations, competition from cheaper imports, or changes in consumer preferences can exacerbate poverty among workers.

7. Lack of Social Mobility: Structural barriers such as caste-based discrimination, lack of access to education, and limited social mobility restrict opportunities for upward mobility among workers in the bangle industry. This perpetuates intergenerational poverty and inequality.

Overall, a combination of exploitative labor practices, lack of social security, debt bond, informal employment, limited skill development opportunities, market dynamics, and structural barriers conspire to keep workers in the bangle industry of Firozabad trapped in poverty. Addressing these complex challenges requires concerted efforts from government, employers, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to promote fair labor practices, social protection, and inclusive economic development.