Bangles don’t delight its actual manufacturers in Firozabad near Agra

Firozabad (Uttar Pradesh), July 23: Firozabad is known all over the country for the quality of glass bangles produced here. But very few of those, who appreciate the colourful bangles, are aware of the conditions in which the bangle workers live and toil.

The workers every day face poisonous gases emitting out during the bangle manufacturing process. If they fall ill, the meager earnings are too little to enable them seek medical help.

Many local residents say that the workers breathe glass not air.

There are thousands of workers -- women and children -- engaged in the bangle industry. They are engaged either in the work of Sadai, straightening out the bangle or Judai, welding the joint of the bangle.

These two activities are considered quite harmful for health. Flames cause burns and gas fumes and glass dust blow right into the face of the workers.

"While working in front of the furnace, we have to put up with the heat. It is difficult, especially, in the summers. We develop a lot of ailments, like chest congestion, and consequent weakness," said Rafiuddin, one of the workers working inside the furnace.

"We earn around Rs. 50 per day .If we roll out 100 bundles, we earn approximately Rs. 450, which has to be evenly divided among the workers, " said Mahendra Pal, an artisan engaged into Judai work.

About 400 units are registered in Firozabad, preparing different types of glass products.

The small-scale glass bangle industry here is covered by the Employees State Insurance department clinics. “ESI in Firozabad provides free medical aid. If the present facilities are considered inadequate, the matter should be taken up with the ESI officer," said Madhur Singh, Assistant Labour officer, Firozabad.

In the meantime, the poor workers are getting their hands burnt and breath hot air. God know how long will they continue to do so? (ANI)

Prayers in Amritsar for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s success

Amritsar, July 21, 2008: While various political leaders are putting up their best argumentative skills during the ongoing vote of confidence in the Indian Parliament in the national capital, religious prayers have been held here for Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh success.

Several Congress leaders attended the Ardas (prayer) ceremony along with their families at Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s brother’s residence here.

The prayers were performed for continuation of Dr. Singh as prime minister after the United Progress Alliance Government’s vote of confidence in the Parliament on July 22.

Surjit Singh Kohli, Dr.Manmohan Singh’s brother, recited the holy verses from the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs. He, later on, offered prayers.

“Various organizations have been praying for Dr. Manmohan Singh so does we also “Ardas” (pray) the almighty for the success and completion of his full term as prime minister at the centre,” said Kohli.

“Dr. Manmohan Singh is not only the pride of Punjab, he is a world recognized Economist and we pray “Waheguru” showers upon him all his blessings and enables him to come successfully out of the crisis faced by his government," said Narender Tinu, Senior Youth Congress leader. (ANI)