THANE

Thane is one of Maharashtra’s most industrially and commercially developed districts, with employment opportunities spanning manufacturing, services, construction, trade, and agriculture. According to the Maharashtra Economic Survey (2023), industrial employment is a major contributor, with Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) zones housing companies in automobiles, chemicals, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and engineering.

The services sector has grown significantly, with jobs in IT, banking, real estate, retail, and logistics expanding due to Thane’s proximity to Mumbai. Many business process outsourcing and knowledge process outsourcing firms operate in the district, employing skilled workers.

Agriculture still plays a role in rural parts of Thane, particularly in rice, millet, and horticulture farming. Fishing communities along the coastal belt engage in marine fishing and seafood processing, contributing to local employment.

Employment trends in Thane vary based on industries, agriculture, and migration patterns. As per the Maharashtra State Migration Report (2022), many rural workers migrate to urban centers like Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune for seasonal work in construction, security services, and hospitality.

In agriculture, seasonal labor is required for rice sowing and harvesting, with workers moving in and out of farming work depending on crop cycles. Similarly, tourism and retail sectors see fluctuations, with increased employment during the festive and holiday seasons.

Construction projects in Thane employ a large number of migrant workers, particularly from Marathwada and Vidarbha, where job opportunities are limited. These workers often shift between construction projects based on demand.

Thane has a mix of formal and informal labor unions that represent workers in industries, transport, construction, and domestic work. The Thane Industrial Workers’ Union has been active in advocating for better wages and job security for factory workers in the MIDC zones.

The Construction Workers’ Federation of India has worked to ensure safety measures and minimum wages for laborers in building and infrastructure projects. Similarly, domestic workers in Thane, Kalyan, and Dombivli have sought legal recognition and social security under organizations like SEWA and the Domestic Workers’ Union.

Transport workers, including rickshaw and taxi drivers, have also formed associations to address issues related to fare regulations and vehicle loans. However, many gig workers, particularly those in food delivery and ride-sharing services, remain unorganized and lack formal protections.

Thane has several technical and vocational training institutes catering to engineering, management, IT, and industrial skills. The Directorate of Vocational Education and Training has expanded skill development programs in automobile repair, construction, and electrical engineering to meet industrial demands.

Notable institutions include:

• Government Polytechnic, Thane, offers diploma courses in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
• Thane Industrial Training Institute (ITI) provides hands-on training in welding, plumbing, carpentry, and automation.
• VPM’s Polytechnic and Engineering College focuses on computer science, electronics, and environmental engineering.
• Swayam Rozgar Yojana Training Centers support entrepreneurs and small business owners with business development skills.

Additionally, corporate training programs in IT and finance have increased through private coaching institutes, helping students transition into software, banking, and digital marketing jobs.