Jenny Chan interviewed by Dia Rekhi for The Economic Times

“In-depth | India’s Electronic Ambitions Ride on Young Female Employees”

24 Dec 2023

by Dia Rekhi

The Economic Times / tech

Link to full content: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com//tech/technology/in-depth-indias-lofty-electronics-manufacturing-ambitions-rides-heavily-on-young-women/articleshow/106237268.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst

As India tries to pip China and countries like Vietnam to be the destination of choice for large electronics manufacturing firms, experts warn of certain patterns that India should not replicate.

“I am concerned about the reproductive health of young women,” said Dr Jenny Chan, who co-authored the book Dying for an iPhone.

“The girls employed in these factories are often in their late teens to early 30s. If at this time, they are exposed to toxic chemicals, it can also cause leukemia, which can affect them and the next generation.”

…

Chan said some of the toxic chemicals had the ability to penetrate through the gloves, especially if they are substandard. Further, there’s also the risk of inhaling these toxic chemicals, which could potentially lead to new-borns being born with deformities.

…

Chan said she also found it “concerning” the way Foxconn was trying to tweak labour law clauses in India.

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