Empowering the Unorganized Sector

The unorganized sector forms the backbone of India's economy, contributing significantly to employment generation, local livelihoods, and grassroots development. Yet, despite its indispensable role, this sector continues to grapple with systemic challenges - ranging from lack of social security, poor working conditions, and gender-based vulnerabilities to policy gaps and minimal recognition within formal development frameworks. This book, Empowering the Unorganized Sector: A Pathway to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals, brings together diverse research contributions that explore the lived realities of workers across multiple segments of the unorganized economy. The chapters highlight issues faced by women street vendors, domestic workers, gig workers, construction laborers, waste pickers, and sex workers, while also examining broader themes such as social protection, legislative frameworks, technological transitions, and the intersection of climate action with labor rights. About the Authors Dr. K. Sathyamurthi, PhD., Associate Professor and former Head of the Department of Social Work at MSSW, has 28 years of experience in teaching, research, and training in Social Work. He has held numerous academic and administrative roles, including Controller of Examinations, IQAC Coordinator (addl), HOD, Principal (i/c), Asst. Director (i/c), Co-ordinator (Trg) and Social Scientist. Dr. K. Sathyamurthi has authored 14 books, authored, edited and compiled, and over 100 research articles. Dr. Lakshmi Jayapal is a distinguished academic and dedicated social work professional with over 20 years of teaching experience and an unwavering commitment to community development, women empowerment, and mental health advocacy. Currently she is serving as an Associate Professor of Social Work at the prestigious Madras School of Social Work (MSSW), Chennai.