PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF GRANITE INDUSTRY LABOURERS IN KARNATAKA

The granite industry in Karnataka is a major contributor to the state’s economy, providing employment to thousands of labourers, many of whom belong to marginalized and migrant communities. Despite the sector’s economic significance, the condition of granite industry labourers remains poor and largely unregulated. This paper, based entirely on a review of existing literature, examines the genuine problems and possible prospects of labourers engaged in the granite sector. The study highlights multiple issues such as informal employment, wage exploitation, unsafe working conditions, occupational health hazards, and lack of social security. Women and migrant workers are particularly vulnerable, facing low wages, poor living standards, and minimal access to welfare schemes. The analysis further reveals how debt bondage, absence of protective equipment, and inadequate healthcare make their situation critical. In addition, limited education and lack of skill development restrict their chances for upward mobility. The paper concludes that effective policy interventions are urgently required to formalize employment, ensure labour welfare, strengthen occupational safety measures, and promote sustainable industry practices. If supported by proper implementation of labour laws and welfare schemes, the granite industry in Karnataka can move toward a more equitable and humane model of growth