Trade Unions.

- G Ojha

Definition.
Trade Unions are voluntary organizations of
workers or employers formed to promote and
protect their interest through collective action.
The definition of Trade Union under the Trade Union
Act, 1926.
Their aim is to redress the imbalance of power
between employers and employees.

Function of Trade Unions in respect of

their members.
Secure fair wages.
Safeguard job security and improve service
conditions.
Improve their working and living conditions.
Facilitate cultural, educational and recreational
activities.
Promote individual and collective welfare.
What happens if they transgress their jurisdiction?

Evolution of Trade Unions in India.

A century long history.
AITUC,AITUF, INTUC,HMS, UTUC.
About 67000 registered Unions.
Only about 10% of organised sector employees are
member.

Central Trade Unions.

Concept
12 in number
BMS 6 Million
INTUC 3.8 Million
AITUC 3.3 Million
HMS -3.2 Million
CITU 2.6 Million

Trends.
Change in Unions attitude.
Depoliticisation Voltas, Pfizer, HUL , Blue Star,
Hoechst.
No Union Situation Software companies and some of
the manufacturing industries.
Multiplicity of Unions.
Outside Leadership.
Weakening clout of central leadership.
No consolidation merger of AICTU and HMS failed.
Professionalisation.
Resurgence of violence.

Why Employees join Unions.

Dissatisfaction.
Lack of Power.
Instrumentality.

Union Tactics.
Go Slow.
Strike.
Blackmail.
Invoking political patronage.

Managing Unions.
Improved two-way communication.
Enforcement of norms, conduct rules & discipline.
Promoting inside leadership.
Taking Union into confidence before a major change
initiative.
Transparency and credibility of the management.
Firm but fair administration.
Reliance on bilateral negotiations.
Computerization of employee services.
Industry comparable remuneration and other nonmonetary benefits.
No arbitrary lay-offs, dismissals.

Recognition of the Bargaining Agent.

Membership Verification.
Check-off system.
The Secret Ballot.
Code of discipline.
But the Law in India does not make it mandatory for
Managements.
a) To have Unions.
b)To recognize them (except in some states)
c) To engage in collective bargaining.

Role of H.R. Manager in Union

Handling.
The HR Managers own conduct.
Performance Based Pay.
Skill Based Pay.
Suitable Training Programs.
Communication about business and importance of
quality etc.
Promoting Team Culture.

Survival of Unions.
Adopt the path of Co-operation and leave the path of
conflict.

Questions?

Thank you!