Sanjay Dawar, MD, Bodycare Creations

We are aware of the gravity of the situation and emerging problems across all industries. I feel, the lockdown may prolong for a longer period and affect our and world economy. Everyone will have to face it in their own capacity as no planning and management will work. It is a wait and watch; work as per situation. We plan to retain all labourers, as most have left for their hometown. We will pay them without cuts. Once the lockdown ends, we will face the challenge of restoring ourselves. It will be like a new start. The whole fraternity feels we must just survive this year and make a fresh start next year.

The FM’s package will not affect us, as she has clearly stated those manufacturers who have less than 100 labours with a minimum pay of Rs 15,000. She has not focused on the garment industry yet, and I feel she is right in taking this stand, as she is focusing on the framers and people below poverty level. However, at some point she will also have to focus on big garment industry. We are aware that the economy will be destroyed, so the government will have to offer measures to enable people through exemptions in different sectors. Manufacturers will work on ways so that we, along with our labours can survive the disaster. Our associations have already taken this up with the PMO. Indeed, the government has done a good job by focusing on the poor as to an extent we are safe and have food and home; they are financially helpless. Having managed all this efficiently, we look forward to the government looking into this sector as well.