Industrial Sociology in India: Work, Labor, Industrial Relations
Every society experiences undercurrents of change. We often hear that “society is changing,” visible in how people dress, behave, eat, and work. While such changes have unfolded over centuries, the phrase “continuity and change” has now gained prominence, reflecting the dynamic shifts happening across organizations and occupations. Education, globalization, and the free flow of information are key drivers of this transformation, impacting everyone—from remote workers and service sector employees to the indigenous communities of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Media platforms, including newspapers and periodicals, continually spotlight social issues such as business corruption, shifts in workforce patterns, and the rise of feminism. These evolving realities have fueled growing interest in industrial sociology as an academic field.
This book provides a historical, integrative, and analytical survey of the core topics in industrial sociology as prescribed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Its first purpose is to serve the new generation of students and researchers, reflecting the significant transformations that industrial sociology has undergone in the past decade. With an India-centric approach, the book offers an analytical perspective, assuming that students and professionals already possess foundational knowledge, allowing only brief references to prior developments.
The second purpose is to highlight the critical issues raised by the history of industrial development and changes in the nature of work, demonstrating their contemporary relevance. By examining the theories that illuminate current industrial sociological challenges, the book introduces contemporary thinkers and their research to enrich students’ understanding.
The third purpose is to align with the UGC-recommended curriculum, recognizing that industrial sociology, as a subfield of sociology, is now widely integrated into university courses. Traditionally, teaching practices in sociology have relied heavily on monologue lectures and dictated notes, often making the subject unengaging for students, who remain passive recipients. This book encourages the integration of group discussions and seminar presentations to make knowledge exchange more interactive, fostering student participation and enhancing their communication skills. It includes additional readings and group assignments to help students engage with real issues facing contemporary society.
The fourth purpose is to cultivate interest in contemporary workplace issues while fostering a sociological perspective among readers. This book aims to encourage students to view workplace challenges through a sociological lens, deepening their understanding of the world of work and industrial relations in India today.