The document discusses the history of trade unions in India and around the world. It divides the history of trade unions in India into three periods: the first period from 1875-1918 which saw the formation of early welfare societies for workers, including the first Indian trade union - the Bombay Mill Hands Association in 1890; the second period from 1918-1947 which was a time of growth for continuous trade unions across India as more were established in different industries; and the third period from 1947 to present, where trade unions became an effective instrument for protecting and safeguarding the interests of laborers after Indian independence.