JOINT CONSULTATIVE MACHINERY’S ROLE IN PROMOTION OF SOUND EMPLOYER-EMPLOYEES RELATIONSHIP IN DEFENCE SECTOR IN INDIA

Abstract

The Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM), established in 1966, is a critical platform for fostering industrial harmony in India's defence sector. Operating at multiple levels—National, Ministry, HQ, and Office—the JCM facilitates structured dialogue between government officials and employee representatives, addressing systemic issues related to welfare, working conditions, and operational efficiency. This mechanism has significantly contributed to mitigating industrial disputes and enhancing employer- employee relations, vital for the defence sector's strategic objectives. As the defence industry modernizes, integrating private sector capabilities, the JCM’s role in ensuring collaborative labor relations is increasingly relevant. This paper examines JCM's contributions through a study involving 150 stakeholders, highlighting its challenges and future potential in fostering industrial peace.