On November 1, 2025, over 400 women garment workers gathered at the Garment Mahila Karmikara Maha Sangama, held at the Kondajji Basappa Auditorium, Bengaluru. The event was organised by Munnade Social Organisation in collaboration with Cividep-India, calling for free nutritious meals in garment factories and better workplace conditions for women workers.
The programme began with cultural performances by Narayan Swami, Munnade’s Cultural Coordinator, and artist Nagesh, who also played the jambe. Their opening songs set a tone of unity and empowerment, followed by traditional folk performances by the children of garment workers — Patada Kunitha, Peacock Dance, Tiger Dance, and Soma Kunitha.
Distinguished guests included Sri. P.G.R. Sindhia (Chief Commissioner, Bharath Scouts and Guides), Smt. Umashree (Renowned Actress & MLC), Dr. Tara (Independent Counsellor, Former Regional Director – NIPCCD), Smt. B. Jayalakshmi (District Health Education Officer), Smt. Deepika Rao (Executive Director, Cividep-India), and Sri. B. Shivaraje Gowda (Director, Samruddi Trust).
Sri. Shivaraje Gowda opened the formal proceedings, emphasizing the urgent need for nutritious meals and safer workplaces. Sri. Sindhia announced that a request letter prepared by Munnade and Cividep would be presented to Labour Minister Santosh Lad and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, proposing the establishment of Indira Canteens near garment factories.
Smt. Umashree applauded the resilience of women workers, calling for stronger state interventions in nutrition, health, and gender-sensitive labour reforms. Dr. Tara stressed the importance of mental health and supportive work environments, while Smt. Jayalakshmi and Smt. Deepika Rao highlighted the need for cross-sector collaboration to ensure dignity and equity in the workplace.
The request letter was read by Aruna from Cividep-India, and Bhavya from Munnade delivered the vote of thanks.
The Maha Sangama concluded with a powerful collective message — that economic empowerment begins with nourishment, dignity, and solidarity.
📅 Event Date: November 1, 2025
🌐 Learn more: www.munnade.org
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