A Study on Family Status and Work Challenges of Tea Estate Workers in Wayanad District

Tea plantation labour constitutes a vital segment of the rural workforce in Wayanad district, Kerala, yet continues to experience socio-economic and occupational vulnerabilities. The present study empirically examines the relationship between family status and work-related challenges among tea estate workers in selected plantations of Meppadi, Vythiri, and Ambalavayal. Primary data were collected from 150 respondents using structured questionnaires and personal interviews. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, chi-square test, and simple linear regression were employed to analyse the data. The findings reveal that a majority of workers are women and belong to middle-aged groups with limited educational attainment. Nearly 70% of respondents earn below ₹12,000 per month, indicating financial insecurity. Correlation results show a significant positive relationship between income level and family stability (r = .48, p < .05). Regression analysis indicates that occupational stress has a significant negative influence on family stability (β = −.52, p < .001), explaining 27% of the variance (R² = .27). A significant association is also observed between gender and occupational challenges (χ² = 9.87, p < .05). The study concludes that income inadequacy, occupational stress, gender-based role expectations, and partial welfare implementation collectively affect the socioeconomic well-being and household stability of tea estate workers. Strengthened wage policies, improved occupational health measures, and gender-sensitive welfare interventions are essential for enhancing work–family balance and sustainable development in plantation communities.