Secondary School Level

Outline: Meaning, slavery during Ancient time and today time. Importance of manual labour. Dignity of labour in west compared to India. Steps to impart dignity of labour among youth.

The meaning of the phrase 'dignity of labour' involves respect and value given to all forms of work. Jobs, which involve manual labour must be equally respected. During Ancient times, slavery was a recognized institution.      

Large number of slaves were bought and sold daily. They lost their dignity and performed alt sorts. Of laborious works.

Today we are living in a democratic era. It must be realized by everyone that all forms of labour contribute to the welfare and development of the society. The labourers through trade unions and various organizations have gained success in achieving a recognized status in the society.

When we talk about fundamental rights, the working class do not relish that respect which is enjoyed by business persons, white-collared people and traders. Many learned people in our country do not appreciate and practice the principle of dignity of labour. They prefer high profile jobs. For instance an arts graduate who is the son of a prosperous farmer, would like to be a clerk in a city bank rather than follow his father’s occupation. This is because he thinks it is foolish to look down upon manual labour.

Manual labour is extremely important and necessary. Although in modern times most of the work in industries and factories is done by machines, but production can be terminated for want of labourers and workers. All over the country, lakhs of labourers work in mines, agricultural sectors, construction companies, and industries. They work with the help of machines but-it is their responsibility to operate and maintain them. Invention and introduction of machinery has given rise to a new class of industrial workers. Even for a week, if the workers slow or stop down their job then the entire nation can suffer a severe blow. Thus, it is our prime duty to show them respect and offer dignity.

In many western countries, youth do not mind earning money by doing part-time jobs as food delivery boy or waiters at restaurants. Much of the domestic works like cooking food and washing clothes are done by the members of the family. On the other hand, in countries like India, domestic helps are scarce and their demands for wages are very high. Many middle class families have to pay through their nose in order to maintain their so called dignity and prestige.

A sense of dignity of labour should be imparted into young minds in schools and colleges. They should be encouraged to participate in various rural upliftment programmes. If their minds are cleared of the notion that none of the works are undignified and humiliating, then the problem of unemployment will be solved to some extent.