Kollam Cashew Workers Protest, Demand Union Package to Revive Industry and Secure Pension

Kollam: A large protest march was held in Kollam by cashew workers, led by the Kerala Cashew Workers Centre (CITU), against the Provident Fund authorities’ decision to deny eligible workers their pensions. Despite heavy rain, hundreds of workers gathered to voice their concerns, starting their march from the Chinnakada Bus Stand and proceeding towards the Provident Fund office.

The workers' primary demand was an increase in the minimum pension amount, the prevention of dal (lentil) imports that affect the local industry, and a call for the central government to provide a special financial package to protect the cashew industry. The march was followed by a sit-in protest at the PF office, where the workers presented their grievances and demands.

The primary grievance raised by the workers was the denial of pensions to eligible cashew workers, by the bureaucrats, a matter that has caused considerable distress among retirees who depend on these funds for their basic living expenses. Along with this, they called for an increase in the minimum pension amount, which they argued has not kept up with the rising cost of living.

In addition to pension-related issues, the workers demanded immediate steps to prevent the import of low quality cashew, which is negatively impacting the local cashew industry by driving down prices and reducing demand for locally processed products.

Furthermore, the workers urged the union government to offer a special financial package to protect and revitalise the cashew industry, which has been facing increasing challenges, including market volatility, rising input costs, and competition from imported cashew nuts.

The march culminated in a sit-in protest at the Provident Fund office, where workers raised their demands and urged the authorities to take action. CITU State Vice President C.S. Sujatha inaugurated the protest, emphasising the need for immediate policy changes to address the grievances of workers. Kerala Cashew Workers Centre President K. Rajagopal presided over the event, reiterating the workers’ commitment to their demands.

Several prominent leaders, including General Secretary B. Thulaseedharakurup, CITU All India Vice President J. Mersikutti Amma, and local figures such as Muraly Madanthakode, K. Subhagan, and J. Ramanjan, addressed the gathering and expressed solidarity with the workers.

The cashew industry, which plays a crucial role in Kerala's economy, especially in Kollam, has long been plagued by challenges. Workers have been raising concerns over the lack of adequate retirement benefits, and the adverse effects of market changes on their livelihoods. Despite various government interventions, many workers in the cashew processing sector continue to struggle with inadequate social security benefits, prompting unions to take a more aggressive stance in their fight for improved working conditions and welfare.

The workers’ demands are not only limited to pension-related issues but also broader concerns about the survival of the cashew industry in Kerala. The import of cheaper cashew nuts from other countries has made it increasingly difficult for local processors to remain competitive. As a result, the industry has seen a decline in production, further exacerbating the challenges faced by workers who rely on it for their income.

The call for a special financial package from the union government has accumulated support, with unions and political leaders pointing out that without timely intervention, the cashew sector could face irreparable damage, endangering the livelihoods of thousands of workers in the state.

CITU leaders have already indicated that similar protests will be organised in other districts.