PALGHAR

Palghar has a diverse economy with employment in agriculture, fisheries, industry, and construction. According to the Maharashtra Economic Survey (2023), agriculture remains a significant occupation, with many workers engaged in rice, finger millet (nachni), pulses, and horticulture crops like chikoo and mangoes.

The fishing industry along Palghar’s coastline employs Koli fishing communities, with fish processing and seafood trade supporting the local economy. Brick kilns and sand mining also provide seasonal employment, especially for migrant workers from other parts of Maharashtra.

Palghar’s industrial sector has expanded, with MIDC zones in Tarapur, Boisar, and Wada housing chemical, pharmaceutical, and engineering companies. The Tarapur Atomic Power Station employs skilled workers, while construction work in urbanizing areas like Vasai-Virar continues to be a major employment source.

Seasonal employment in Palghar is driven by agriculture, fishing, and construction. According to the Maharashtra State Migration Report (2022), agricultural laborers experience fluctuations in employment, particularly outside the monsoon and harvest seasons. Many workers migrate temporarily to Mumbai and Thane for jobs in factories, construction, and domestic work during lean agricultural months.

Fishermen also face seasonal changes, with fishing bans during monsoon months affecting incomes. During this period, many fish workers engage in repairing boats and nets or take up temporary jobs.

The brick kiln industry also follows a seasonal cycle, with demand for labor peaking during dry months, after which many workers return to farming or migrate for alternative work.

Labor unions in Palghar represent industrial, construction, and agricultural workers. The Palghar Industrial Workers’ Union has been active in advocating for better wages and job security in the chemical and engineering industries.

The Construction Workers’ Federation of India supports migrant laborers in the building sector, ensuring compliance with minimum wage laws. Fishermen’s cooperatives have also played a role in securing fair prices for seafood and improving working conditions in the fishing industry.

Palghar has several institutions providing vocational and technical training. The Directorate of Vocational Education and Training has set up Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Boisar, Vasai, and Dahanu, offering courses in mechanical, electrical, and welding trades.

Notable institutions include:

• Government Polytechnic, Palghar, offers diploma programs in engineering and applied sciences.
• ITI Boisar provides technical skills training in automobile repair, plumbing, and electrical work.
• Tarapur Atomic Energy Education Society is offering specialized training for nuclear plant technicians.