India's Industries Champion Women's Empowerment; A Look At Initiatives

In a society striving for gender equality, various industries in India are taking significant steps towards catering the diversity and inclusivity within their workforces. A recent survey conducted by Uber India in collaboration with Oxford Economics sheds light on the impact of ride-hailing services on women’s workforce participation.

The survey reveals a promising outlook for increasing women’s participation in the workforce through ride-hailing services. By 2028, it is projected that these services could facilitate an additional 0.32 million to 0.56 million women to join the workforce across five Indian cities, translating to a 4.0% to 6.9% increase in the female labour force size. This surge in participation is expected to contribute significantly to city-level gross value added, ranging from INR 47,700 crore to INR 82,600 crore by 2028.

Diversity in Aviation

Vistara symbolizes a commitment to gender diversity with women constituting almost 44% of its workforce and 10% of its leadership positions. Furthermore, the airline boasts a pilot workforce where nearly 14% are women, double the global average. Initiatives like the UK in India Gender Equality Charter underscore the airline’s dedication to promoting gender diversity in the workplace and society at large. From hiring policies to learning and development framework and employee-centric initiatives, everything at Vistara is envisioned to ensure a balanced approach to gender diversity and inclusion. Vistara aims to develop more women leaders and empower them through policies and programmes, encourage gender equality and ensure women leaders are in decision-making roles. The airline is working towards embedding a gender-neutral lens across the organization and continuously includes gender analysis in the design, implementation and evaluation of all activities.

Breaking Barriers in Male-Dominated Sectors

RHI Magnesita India, a key player in the refractory industry, is actively promoting gender diversity and inclusion. With a target to increase women’s representation in its workforce from 7% to 15% by 2025, the company implements inclusive hiring policies and focused recruitment drives to attract female talent. Flexible working hours and maternal leave policies further contribute to nurturing a conducive work environment. Through such initiatives, RHI Magnesita India is paving the way for a more equitable future in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Embracing Diversity for Economic Progress

Vishwa Samudra Group recognizes the imperative of embracing diversity for India’s economic growth. With a firm belief in inclusivity, the group prioritizes empowering women within its workforce. By fostering an environment where diversity thrives, the group contributes to sustainable and inclusive economic progress. As stated by Shivdutt Das, Executive Director, Vishwa Samudra Group, embracing diversity and inclusivity is fundamental to unlocking India’s true economic potential.

The insights from Uber India’s survey and the initiatives undertaken by companies shows the power of gender diversity in driving economic progress and fostering inclusive workplaces. As India marches towards a $5 trillion economy, embracing diversity and inclusivity remains paramount for unlocking the nation’s full potential.