The Internet, DTP & Photostat Workers Association (IDPWA) was founded in 2012 in Tirur, Malappuram, born from a vision to support and uplift workers in the internet, DTP, and photostat sectors. These professionals, often unrecognized and underpaid despite their long working hours, lacked a collective platform to represent their rights and concerns. By 2014, the idea gained momentum with the support of like-minded individuals, leading to the formation of a formal committee. The organization was officially registered under the name IDPOA (Registration No: MPM/CA/396/2014), with structured leadership and a formal bylaw to guide its operations. One of the earliest milestones was the state-level convention held in July 2014, where legal guidance and public awareness sessions marked the organization's public entry. Prior to this, a press conference introduced the association’s mission to the wider public. To standardize service rates, the association released a photostat pricing chart in 2012, which was displayed across several districts until 2021. This initiative aimed to protect workers from unfair pricing and exploitation. Despite setbacks caused by natural disasters and the pandemic, the association remained active through regular meetings, communication channels, and community support activities. Leadership roles evolved over time, ensuring continuity and growth. From its humble beginnings, IDPWA has become a symbol of unity and representation for digital-era workers across Kerala. Its core mission remains unchanged: to ensure dignity, fair treatment, and professional recognition for workers in this unorganized yet essential sector.
The organization began in Tirur,Malappuram, aiming to unite workers in internet, DTP, and photostat sectors.
Officially registered as IDPOA (MPM/CA/443/2021), with a structured committee and bylaws.
Held in Malappuram, July 2014, with public participation and legal awareness sessions.
Introduced a statewide photostat rate chart to ensure fair pricing and worker protection.