Background Study Tirupur - Fair Wear Foundation

displaced from sick units) on a non statutory basis.
Social Security Act
Several legislative Acts provide social security to workers in India. The most important
ones being:
Employees Provident Fund
According to this Act a compulsory contributory fund is set up by the employer for the future
of the employee following his retirement, or for his dependents in the case of premature
death. Monthly contribution to provident fund is at 8-10 per cent of basic salary and dearness(cost
of living) allowance. This Act is extendible to all establishments in India employing
20 persons or more.
A company newly set up is exempt from the Employee's Provident Fund and Miscellaneous
Provisions Act for the first three years of operation. Certain other amenities, such as canteens,
rest shelters, first-aid centres, crèches (day-care centres for female employees' children),
and educational and recreation centres, are to be provided by the employer in factories,
mines and plantations. Large industrial Units located away from the main cities sometimes
provide subsidised housing for their workers. Some states require the setting up of a
welfare fund with contributions payable by the employer, employees and the concerned government
for promoting activities connected with the welfare of labour.
Payment of Gratuities Act
This Act provides retirement benefits for employees who have worked for a minimum stipulated
period with an employer (generally 5 years and more). It is considered as a reward for
long and faithful service. Terminal gratuity works out to 15 days salary for each year of service.
This Act applies to the whole of India where over 10 employees are working for an establishment.
Workman's Compensation Act
According to this Act workers and/or their dependents are provided with relief in the event of
accidents arising out of or in the course of employment, causing death or disability. This Act
extends to the whole of India.
(For the record: The worker's Permanency Act)
23