India, May 13 -- Over the past decade, India has witnessed an increase in both the intensity and frequency of heatwaves. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) estimates that summer 2025 is likely to be hotter for most parts of north, east, and central India than the rest of the country. The soaring temperatures present a growing threat to the health and productivity of over 20 crore MSME workers, who work in conditions that have little scope for regulating temperatures. Outdoor workers, in sectors such as agriculture, vending, and construction, are considered the most vulnerable. However, indoor working conditions in industries such as forging, foundries, and textiles are often overlooked.

Contrary to the common belief, indoor worksp...