Latest news with #UrvashiMishra
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Behind the glitz: The hidden burden of baraat light carriers
Vadodara: For decades, they've lit up the vibrant spectacle of big fat Indian weddings. As the groom arrives in style and loved ones dance to the beat of traditional music, it's the sparkling display of decorative umbrella lights that adds grandeur to the baraat — a quintessential part of . Tired of too many ads? go ad free now A study conducted by Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) has uncovered the serious physical toll endured by the men who carry these decorative umbrella lights. Often overlooked, these workers suffer from persistent and , silently bearing the burden of a job that brings joy to others. The research, conducted by MSc student Vidhi Chokshi under the guidance of Dr Urvashi Mishra, assistant professor in the department of Family and Community Resource Management, Faculty of Family and Community Sciences, focused on 120 workers from urban and semi-urban areas of Vadodara. Using a mixed-methods approach, the team combined standardised body and hand discomfort scales with mechanical injury checklists and in-depth interviews to document the lived experiences of these workers. Most of the umbrella light carriers surveyed were middle-aged, with limited formal education and income, and were found to suffer from frequent discomfort in the mid-back, lower back, arms, forearms, knees, legs, and feet. The level of discomfort often depended on the type of umbrella light carried — pole-mounted models caused less strain, while overhead models led to significant upper body distress. "In addition to musculoskeletal issues, many workers reported mechanical injuries like skin pinching, electric shocks, and eye irritation," the study stated. "Long periods of static posture and continuous exposure to high-intensity lights led to moderate but persistent physical irritation." Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The study also found a direct correlation between the distance walked or time spent carrying the lights and the level of physiological fatigue and exhaustion experienced. Despite the clear health hazards, most workers continue in this physically demanding job out of economic necessity. "Interviews revealed a pressing demand for lighter, , better working conditions, and supportive policies that acknowledge the occupational hazards they face," the study emphasized. The researchers are now urging event organizers and authorities to take action. "Holding decorative umbrella lights is a physically taxing, high-risk occupation. Immediate ergonomic interventions, regular health check-ups, and comprehensive occupational safety measures are urgently needed," said Dr. Mishra. She added, "through this study, we hope to shine a light on the invisible labour behind our celebrations. These workers belong to the informal sector, and their health, safety, and dignity deserve policy-level protection." The researchers have also suggested a range of coping strategies to these workers, including taking frequent rest breaks, proper warm-up exercises, and using protective gear.
Time of India
11-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Mobile workstation to put end to street cobblers' misery
Vadodara: Based on a scientific study on ergonomic challenges faced by , a team of researchers from the M S University developed a design of mobile workstations for street faculty members from the Department of Family and Community Resource Management of MSU's Faculty of Family and Community Sciences carried out innovative research on the " " of street cobblers, who often work in harsh conditions and are prone to long-term health issues due to their strenuous work postures."The was conducted on 34 street cobblers in Vadodara. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now It revealed severe physical discomfort caused by poor working conditions," said Dr Urvashi Mishra, assistant professor, who, along with temporary assistant professors Suraksha Narang and Poripurna Goswami and temporary teaching assistant Komal Parmar, conducted the study."Cobblers spend long hours seated on the ground, bent over their work, leading to significant musculoskeletal strain," Mishra study found that cobblers place their tools and materials on low wooden planks, forcing them into awkward and unhealthy postures. "The constant bending with repetitive tasks, such as hammering and stitching, contributes to chronic pain and long-term health complications," she ergonomic assessment revealed that cobblers frequently suffer pain in their lower back, knees, and buttocks, which endure the most strain due to prolonged floor sitting and bending."Additionally, significant discomfort was noted in their arms, legs, and shoulders, particularly on the right side, which bears the brunt of repetitive movements and dominant-hand workload," the study uneven strain worsens their physical health, leading to chronic discomfort. "The neck, upper back, and thighs experience moderate pain due to static posture and awkward positioning," the study, which categorised body parts based on risk levels associated with poor posture, states."Our findings depict the urgent need for ergonomic interventions to improve the working conditions of these skilled labourers," said Mishra, adding that the faculty members developed the design to address these issues."Our research aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8, which focuses on promoting economic growth and decent work, and SDG 3, which aims to improve health and well-being," she added.
