Rayees Masroor
Every year on May 1st, the world pauses to observe International Labour Day, or May Day, a global tribute to the working class. This day commemorates the historic struggles of labourers, celebrates their indispensable contributions to society, and renews the call to uphold their dignity. Rooted in the late 19th-century labour movement—sparked by the 1886 Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where workers demanded an eight-hour workday—May Day stands as a testament to the resilience, sacrifices, and victories of millions who have toiled to build the foundations of modern prosperity. Yet, despite its profound significance, the dignity of labour remains underappreciated in many parts of the world, including Kashmir, where socio-economic challenges underscore the urgent need for a cultural and systemic shift.
The role of labour in society is foundational. From the construction workers who erect skyscrapers to the farmers who cultivate the fields, from the artisans who preserve traditional crafts to the factory workers who power industries, every profession involving physical and mental effort sustains the rhythm of daily life. Labourers are the backbone of nations, transforming raw materials into infrastructure, goods, and services that drive progress. Their sweat and dedication ensure that societies function smoothly, yet their contributions are often overlooked, and their dignity is frequently undermined by societal biases and systemic inequities.
In the teachings of Islam, the dignity of labour occupies a sacred place. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) exemplified respect for workers through his actions and words. A well-known hadith states, “Give the worker his wages before his sweat dries,” emphasizing the importance of timely payment, fair treatment, and respect for those who labour. The Prophet himself engaged in manual work, from herding sheep to trading goods, demonstrating that no honest work is beneath anyone, regardless of status. This principle serves as a timeless reminder that labour is not merely a means of survival but a noble act of service to humanity and a reflection of moral integrity.
However, the reality in many regions, including Kashmir, starkly contrasts with these ideals. Kashmir’s socio-economic landscape presents a unique paradox. The region relies heavily on migrant labourers from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Rajasthan, who dominate sectors such as construction, roadwork, carpentry, masonry, and even agriculture. According to local estimates, over 500,000 migrant workers arrive annually in Jammu and Kashmir, filling critical gaps in the labour market. These workers, often toiling under challenging conditions, contribute significantly to the region’s economy, yet they frequently face exploitation, inadequate wages, and social marginalization, treated as outsiders rather than valued contributors.
Meanwhile, a troubling trend has emerged among Kashmiri youth, many of whom display an aversion to manual labour. Influenced by societal biases that equate physical work with inferiority, young Kashmiris increasingly aspire to white-collar government jobs, which are scarce—only about 50,000 such positions exist in the Union Territory, with thousands of applicants competing for each vacancy. This overdependence on limited opportunities has led to widespread unemployment, with the unemployment rate in Jammu and Kashmir hovering around 10%, significantly higher than the national average. The reluctance to engage in manual labour not only perpetuates economic stagnation but also undermines the dignity of honest work, creating a structural weakness in the region’s socio-economic fabric.
This mindset is particularly concerning in a region like Kashmir, where agriculture and traditional crafts have historically been the backbone of the economy. The shift away from these sectors, coupled with a preference for non-local labour, risks eroding cultural heritage and self-reliance. For instance, apple orchards, a cornerstone of Kashmir’s economy contributing over ₹12,000 crore annually, increasingly rely on migrant workers for harvesting and maintenance, while local youth remain disengaged. This disconnect highlights the need for a cultural reawakening that celebrates all forms of labour as honourable and essential.
Restoring the dignity of labour in Kashmir requires a multifaceted approach. First, a fundamental shift in mindset is essential. Parents, educators, religious leaders, and community influencers must challenge the stigma surrounding manual work, emphasizing that no honest profession is inferior. Religious institutions, such as mosques and madrasas, can play a pivotal role by integrating teachings like the Prophet’s hadith into sermons, inspiring youth to view labour as a source of pride. Media platforms, including social media, television, and educational channels, should amplify stories of individuals who have achieved success through skilled trades or entrepreneurship, showcasing role models who started from humble beginnings.
Second, ensuring the rights and well-being of all labourers—local and migrant—is critical for a just society. Migrant workers in Kashmir often face hazardous working conditions, lack of legal protections, and delayed wages. The government must enforce labour laws, such as the Minimum Wages Act and the Building and Other Construction Workers Act, to guarantee fair compensation and safe workplaces. Additionally, fostering inclusivity by treating migrant workers as valued contributors rather than outsiders can strengthen communal harmony. Local communities can organize initiatives like health camps or cultural exchange programs to build bridges with migrant workers, recognizing their shared humanity.
Third, policymakers must prioritize skill development to make vocational training attractive and accessible. Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and the Jammu and Kashmir Skill Development Mission should expand to offer training in high-demand trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and modern agricultural techniques. By linking these programs to dignified self-employment opportunities and startup grants, the government can bridge the gap between aspirations and realities. For example, training youth in value-added agricultural practices, such as organic farming or food processing, could revitalize Kashmir’s agrarian economy while empowering young entrepreneurs.
As we commemorate May Day on May 1, 2025, let us reflect on the true measure of progress—not merely in skyscrapers or economic statistics but in how we honour those who build and sustain our societies. The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) remind us that respecting workers’ rights is a moral and spiritual obligation, not just a social duty. For Kashmir, this May Day presents an opportunity to inspire its youth to break free from the chains of stigma, embrace the honour of honest work, and contribute to a self-reliant future.
By fostering a culture that values all labour, ensuring justice for workers, and empowering youth through skills and opportunities, Kashmir can reclaim the dignity of labour. Only then can the region build a resilient, inclusive, and truly prosperous society—one where every worker, local or migrant, is celebrated as a vital thread in the fabric of progress.
(Note:Rayees Masroor is an independent columnist and academician based in Kupwara, Kashmir. He can be reached at rayeesmasroor111@gmail.com.
