Vol. 12, Special Issue 12 (2023)

Author(s):
Bhalerao VS and Mane SA

Abstract:
The sugarcane industry plays a crucial role in the agricultural landscape of Maharashtra, employing a significant number of laborers, including a substantial proportion of female sugarcane cutters. This research paper investigates the reproductive and general health issues faced by female sugarcane cutters in Beed District of Maharashtra. An exploratory study was conducted, which included interviews with 80 female sugarcane cutters who had undergone hysterectomy and who had not undergone hysterectomy. The study aims to shed light on the unique challenges and health concerns that vulnerable population encounters due to their occupation. Result revealed that due to poor diet, no health care, unhygienic conditions, poverty, inaccessibility to medical facilities etc, these women were facing many health issues and still they had to continue the arduous work of sugar cane cutting, irrespective of their classification as they had undergone hysterectomy or not. Long working hours, exposure to harsh weather conditions and inadequate breaks contribute to physical stress and fatigue, potentially impacting reproductive health. Poor sanitation and hygiene in the workplace increase the risk of reproductive infections and other health issues. The large strata of the female sugarcane cutters community is suffering due to unawareness and lack of knowledge of future ill effects of the hysterectomy. Keywords: Female sugarcane cutters, Living condition, Reproductive health issues, General health issues.