CHAPTER 1

Introduction

The contribution of all sectors is the basis for the growth of a nation. When we consider

Indian economy, human resource is the main factor. It ranges from Small Scale Industries to
Multinational Companies [MNCs]. Small scale industries are important because it helps in increasing
employment and economic development of India. It improves the growth of the country by increasing
urban and rural growth. Small scale manufacturing industries and cottage industries play a very
important role in the economic development of India. If the workers are satisfied with their economic
and working condition, it leads to their ‘job satisfaction’ and it pays a way for economic growth of the
nation. Job satisfaction happens when an employee feels he or she is having job stability, career growth
and a comfortable work life balance. A happy and content employee at a job is always motivated to
contribute more.

It is obvious that COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every aspect of life and

it will continue to have major implication on national economies, businesses and personal health.
Several studies and surveys conducted detect the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and job security
of employees. Without the means to earn an income during lockdowns many are unable to feed
themselves and their families. It’s also correct as in the case of pottery industries, one of the major
cottage industries in India. Border closures and trade restrictions have been preventing them from
accessing markets and buying raw materials. Direct selling is also diminishing because of lockdown
restrictions. So, several potters are encouraging their younger generation to quit the work and look for
an alternative source of livelihood.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Potters were probably the first engineers in the history of human civilisation, the first group to be
withdrawn from food production to be engaged in a full-time work. Pottery industry occupies an
important place in the life and economy of a nation. Over the year income of potter community reduced
due to popularity of ceramic and plastic products for home decor and kitchen ware. COVID-19 the
pandemic situation reduced their economic condition and standard of living.

The study presents a comprehensive diagnosis of Job Satisfaction of pottery community.

OBJECTIVES

1. To analyse the job satisfaction and financial stability of pottery workers at KUMBARATHARA.

2. To understand the Socio-Economic conditions of the workers.

3.To study the production and marketing of potteries.

SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The study gives a clear-cut idea about the life style of the pottery community at KUMBARATHARA. It also
deals with the economic conditions of the pottery workers. It measures the satisfaction level of the
pottery community for doing this as a means of life. The findings of the present study will be useful to
academics, policy makers, planners, government officials in their operative fields. The present study will
be beneficial to the prospective researchers to take further investigation

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The research also includes, information such as how the pottery workers are satisfied with their
economic and working condition, challenges they faced in production and marketing, economic impact
of pottery units etc. The survey administered interview schedule with the pottery workers. The
interview schedule included 27 questions and also provided information regarding personal information
and opinions for respondents.

RESEARCH DESIGN

A descriptive research design has been followed for the present study. The method of research used is
descriptive study and survey method for collecting information related to the demographic and
behavioral variables of the respondents.

SOURCES OF DATA

Two different sources of data are used for the study that has been conducted.

Primary data were collected through interview schedule conducted with the pottery workers at

KUMBARATHARA.

Secondary data were collected from article published by the VADAKKENCHERRY panchayath, published
journals, books, newspapers and website were also used in this study.

SAMPLING DESIGN

Sampling design comprise the sample size and sampling technique used for the study.

SAMPLING SIZE
Sampling size is 50 covering pottery workers from both genders of KUMBARATHARA

VADAKKENCHERRY.

SAMPLING TECHNIQUE

The sampling technique used was convenient sampling. It is one of non-probability sampling. The
technique was chosen as per the convenience of the researcher and saves time.

Respondents easily available for survey, were selected.

TOOLS FOR ANALYSIS

In the present study, percentage analysis technique has been used.

LIMITATIONS OF STUDY

1.In Interview personal bias become a major limitation.

2.The respondents were less interested in interview as they felt that it was an interruption to their
regular work

3.Due to COVID-pandemic situation, study conducted in limited area.

4.Due to time and cost constraints, study conducted in limited area.

SCHEME OF THE STUDY

1. First chapter gives introduction, research methodology and research design.

2. Second chapter deals with Review of literature.

3. Third chapter deals with theoretical framework on job satisfaction, economic and working
conditions of pottery community at KUMBARATHARA VADAKKENCHERRY.

4. Fourth chapter deals with analysis on job satisfaction of pottery community.

5. Fifth chapter deals with major findings, suggestions and conclusions.