Jobber

Jobber, became a peculiar feature of the Indian factory system that emerged during the colonial period. In Bombay is was known by the name Muqadam or sardar. Work wise defination of a muqadum entailed series of functions. Primarily he was a chargeman responible for the supervision of labour and also assisted as a skilled mechanic. Since he being provider of labour force to factory, workers generally would approach a muqadum for getting new jobs. Many of the muqadums also doubled as credit providers to the workers and also looked after their housing. The relationship between the worker and the jobber was like a client-patron relationship.

Jobbers also worked as an intermediary between the employer and the employee.

During the War years, the authority of the jobber declined as the worker's militancy rose and they became more and more self-organised.