Socio-Economic Conditions of the Tea Garden Labourers of Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Dima-Hasao and Goalpara Districts of Assam and Determinants of Wage

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the socio-economic conditions of tea garden labourers in the Assam districts of Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Dima-Hasao, and Goalpara, discussing the determinants of their wages. Data were drawn from 400 respondents to understand different factors determining the wage, which includes district differences, gender, educational status, work experience, and household size. The study tested several hypothesis and found significant differences in the mean wages, household income, and consumption across the districts. It further brought out gender wage differentials where males earned more than females, and higher wage levels were influenced positively by higher education levels, greater work experiences, and larger household sizes. Statistical analyses conducted using ANOVA and independent t-tests concluded that socio-economic influences on wages included district, education, and work experience. The findings highlight the importance of interventions aimed at the economic empowerment of tea garden workers, especially regarding gender inequality and opportunities in education.