CBSE Class 6 Social Science: Urban Livelihoods NCERT Solutions

This question asks students to read and discuss the provided description about the living conditions of workers at a labour chowk. The text highlights the precarious situation of these workers, who often lack permanent housing and sleep in public spaces or night shelters. It also points out the informal support system provided by local shopkeepers, who act as banks and safe lockers, holding tools and money for the workers and offering them loans. Students are encouraged to engage in a class discussion about these realities, understanding the challenges faced by daily wage labourers in urban areas, including issues of security, income, and access to basic amenities.

Here is the completed table, followed by a discussion on how their work differs:

Discussion on how their work is different:

The work of these individuals varies significantly based on several factors:

• Earnings: Bachchu and Harpreet earn a low daily wage (Rs 100 and Rs 80 respectively), indicating casual work. Nirmala and Sudha have a stable, high monthly salary (Rs 30,000 p.m.), typical of permanent employment. Manjhi's earnings are described in terms of future plans (buying a flat and car), suggesting a stable income. Vandana's earnings are flexible, with potential for extra income.
• Security of Work: Bachchu, Harpreet, and Vandana have no job security, meaning their employment can be uncertain. Manjhi, Nirmala, and Sudha have company-provided security, implying they are permanent employees with stable jobs.
• Benefits Received: Casual workers like Bachchu and Harpreet receive no additional benefits. Permanent employees like Manjhi, Nirmala, and Sudha receive benefits such as holidays, regular salaries, savings for old age, and medical facilities. Vandana receives medical facilities.
• Nature of Employment: Bachchu and Vandana work on their own, suggesting they are self-employed or freelancers. Manjhi, Harpreet, Nirmala, and Sudha are employed by companies, indicating a formal employer-employee relationship.

In summary, the table clearly illustrates the contrast between casual, self-employed, and permanent employment, highlighting differences in income stability, job security, and access to benefits.

A permanent and regular job offers several advantages over a casual job. In a permanent job, an employee receives a consistent salary every month, providing financial stability. Beyond the salary, permanent workers are entitled to various other benefits. These often include provisions for savings for old age, paid holidays, and medical facilities for themselves and their families. This security ensures a better quality of life and peace of mind. In contrast, casual jobs offer little to no job security. Casual workers may be asked to leave if they complain about their pay or working conditions. They are often expected to work very long hours and do not receive the additional benefits that permanent employees enjoy, making their livelihood more uncertain and challenging.

Sudha is employed as a permanent worker with a company, which provides her with several benefits in addition to her regular salary. One significant benefit is the provision for savings for old age. A portion of her salary is contributed to a fund managed by the government. This fund accrues interest over time, and upon her retirement from the job, she will receive this accumulated amount, likely in the form of a pension. This ensures financial security for her later years.