India's Labour Rights Journey: From Ancient Roots to Modern Era
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India's ancient society, as depicted in the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharat, lacked modern labour rights. However, historical records from the Mauryan period, dating back 2,500 years, show that labour was crucial for agriculture, household chores, and menial tasks in elite households. Artisans and skilled craftsmen were valued and compensated well, whereas slaves and forced labourers from lower castes, including Shudras, were often subjected to exploitation. Wars also led to the capture of many slaves. This ancient labour system laid the groundwork for India's complex labour rights landscape, which continues to evolve to this day.
