Impact of COVID-19 on apparel enterprises in India: An analysis of sustainability

Abstract

In the Indian economy, the economic repercussions of COVID-19 are visible in the informal apparel enterprises in the form of employment and livelihood losses, reduction in savings and increased debts. As they are more susceptible to economic hardships and income losses during times of crisis, understanding of sustainable practices by the informal economy becomes critical. The present study attempts to understand the impact of the crisis on the entrepreneurs and workers engaged in apparel manufacturing, focusing explicitly on the COVID-19-led environmental, economic and social sustainability practices adopted by the enterprises. It is revealed that the three pillars of sustainability are positively associated with overcoming COVID-19 led disruptions. In that sense, the "informal sector" should be considered as an asset that needs to be harnessed further to promote sustainability. A more cohesive approach that brings into its fold measures to strengthen community relations, incorporate sustainable ways of production, employ economical sustainable practices to the maximum limit and develop families as strong social institutions to achieve sustainable goals is the present need.