Socioeconomic Analysis of the Green Action Force Harithakarmasena

Harithakarmasena (HKS) is a comprehensive women empowerment model developed for Solid Waste Management in rural and urban Kerala. It is managed by Local Self Govts and Kudumbashree. Many women workers were got employment opportunities under this venture. Eventhough it is a successful opportunity for women labour participation many challenges are existing. The present study focusing socio- economic status of HKS workers and their problems in this field. Kannur district of kerala selected as study area. 60 HKS workers of Kannur corporation were randomly selected for the study. Data collected through mailed questionnaire and in-depth interview also conducted with workers. Simple statistical tools, percentage, average- mean, median, pie diagrams were used for analysis. Age, religion, education, maritial status, family type, remuneration, partner’ job, saving pattern, debt and repayment of debt, reason for preferring this job were analysed. The study revealed that there is substantial change in the Socio Economic conditions of Harithakarmasena workers. 35-45 is the median of age group and Plus two is the mean education of HKS in Kannur corporation.70% of the workers were married and most of their partners working informal sector. The salary of HKS ranges from 8000- 12000 rupees with the target of covering 55 households. Most of the workers engaged informal jobs before this venture where their salary ranges from 5000-6000 rupees. Most of the workers (38.33%) preferred this job expecting future benefits and 18.33% of workers were preferred for environmental concern. As HKS are connected with kudumbasree, all the workers have thrift behaviour. There is no regular investment behaviour among the HKS workers. 80% of the HKS workers have debt out of which 70% started repayment after got job in Harithakarmasena. Lack of corporation from some households, no restroom and toilet facilities make challenges for their working. Health issues like allergy, backpain and body pain are also hurdle for HKS in Kannur corporation.