Removing Economic Barriers to CSR:

In some cases, note was taken of structural economic barriers to the wider adoption of CSR in supply chains. To be successful, the options presented will need to address, or at least be developed with some regard for, these structural barriers. Some cited the very nature of supply chains themselves, which especially in the apparel industry may contain inherent disincentives to the adoption of good practice. Numerous parties cited the lack face de facto penalties for adopting practices that transcend significantly those undertaken by competitors. In addition, buyers should address the mixed messages and incentives they send to suppliers, who respond to compliance staff promoting adoption of good labor conditions, and also merchandisers who often demand lower prices, faster deliveries, and shorter lead times.

Conclusion

Shrinking lead times in the apparel industry has drastically changed the situation and the fast fashion concept has created a lot of pressure on the supply chain leading to worsening to labor conditions in this sector. Indian garment exporters stand to gain from positive externalities arising from adopting social compliance practices in terms of healthy empowered and more productive labor. Theses gains may be overshadowed by the potential misuse of these standards as NTBs and difficulty of choice emanating from multiplicity of standards. To keep pace with the global happenings and upliftment of Indias image on the international map, the social compliance issues should be handled with dexterity both by policymakers and the exporters.

About the Authors

Pallavee Kohli is the Senior Asstt. Prof. & Head International College for Girls, Jaipur and Durganshu Arya is Senior Lecturer Pearl Academy of Fashion, Jaipur