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Abstract

International Journal of Trends in Emerging Research and Development, 2025;3(5):36-41

Educational Status of Brick Kiln Workers in Andhra Pradesh: Patterns, Barriers and Opportunities

Author : Dr. Gollapalli Tejeswara Rao

Abstract

An essential component of the nation's industrial and infrastructure growth is construction activity. For thousands of unskilled migrant workers, the brick kilns provide a living. Every year, around a million marginal and landless farmers travel to Andhra Pradesh in quest of seasonal work due to the work's seasonal nature, which draws migrant labour from nearby states. These labourers migrate along with the families. Each unit consists of 15-20 members comprising of adults and children, and all of them are engaged in brick kiln work. Brick kiln workers always remain under heavy work pressure to work and produce a greater number of bricks during peak seasons with limited facilities, resources and management skills. The present research on the Socio-Economic conditions and educational status of brick kiln workers is one of its kind which needs the attention of government authorities. It is a unique study wherein the social and economic conditions are analysed which are drastically impacted by the overall working conditions of this exploited labour class. To study the Educational Status and socio-economic conditions of brick kiln workers, 500 workers were selected as sample from Srikakulam and Vizianagaram Districts of Andhra Pradesh on random basis. Data was gathered through structured Interview Schedule and where demographic details were gathered along with the socio-economic issues faced by the workers. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used for the analysis followed by findings, and conclusions were presented i.e., 1) In terms of educational status of workers, majority of the workers are No formal education, majority of the workers are not enrolled in any educational Institutions due to family responsibilities, 2) Regarding the educational programmes, majority of the workers did not notice any of the educational programmes conducted by their community due to lack of literacy and awareness, 3) It was noticed that, more than 54% of the workers are having their own houses, remaining are not having proper accommodation. Nearly 50% of the workers are not having pucca houses, staying in the thatched house, it is the reason that financial problems prevail among them, 4) With regard to migration of workers, it was noticed that, majority of the workers are migrated from other states. It seems that the skilled people are migrating from other states, 5) it was noticed that the policies of the initiatives designed by the government are not suitable or not implemented effectively for the benefits of the brick kiln workers, 6) Majority of the workers stated that, they are not providing any health insurance coverage facilities by the employer and also revealed that they, are suffered serious injury or illness due to their work in the brick kiln areas. The future scope of this study includes exploring long-term solutions to improve the economic conditions of brick kiln workers, such as strengthening policy implementation and enhancing access to welfare programs. Further research could focus on the impact of technological advancements and sustainable practices on workers' welfare and economic stability.

Keywords

Educational Status, Socio-Economic Conditions, Brick Kiln Workers, Policies for the welfare, Migration