31st May 2024 (14 Topics)
Women in Corporate Roles in India
Context
The representation of women in corporate roles in India has long been below 30% and has shown signs of stagnation or even decline in the post-pandemic years. This trend is highlighted in a report by LinkedIn titled "Women in Leadership in Corporate India."
Sector-Wise Representation
The report provides data on the representation of women in leadership roles across various sectors:
- Highest Representation: Education (30%) and Government Administration (29%) have the highest representation of women in leadership roles.
- Moderate Representation: Technology, Information, and Media, and Financial Services sectors have a moderate female representation in leadership at 19%.
- Lowest Representation: Construction, Oil, Gas, and Mining, and Utilities sectors have the lowest female representation in leadership at 11%, followed by Wholesale and Manufacturing at 12%, and Accommodation and Food Services at 15%.
Factors Contributing to Decline
- Reduction in hybrid or work-from-home roles has suppressed the growth of female participation in the corporate labor market.
- Women still face significant obstacles in reaching leadership roles due to bias, societal norms, and structural barriers.
- Structural barriers such as lack of access to education, limited professional networks, and inadequate support systems for working mothers also play significant roles.
Suggestions for Improvement
- Skills-First Approach to Hiring: This approach focuses on hiring based on skills rather than gendered assumptions about a prospective employee's capabilities.
- Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: Providing mentorship and networking opportunities can help women advance in their careers.
- Shared Parental Leave: Implementing shared parental leave can support women in balancing work and family responsibilities.
Societal Analysis
From a societal perspective, the underrepresentation of women in corporate leadership roles in India reflects broader gender inequality issues.
- Gender Norms and Biases: Deep-rooted societal norms and biases against women in leadership positions need to be addressed through education and awareness programs.
- Structural Barriers: Policies and initiatives should focus on removing structural barriers that prevent women from advancing in their careers.
- Support Systems: Enhancing support systems for women, such as affordable childcare and flexible working conditions, can help increase their participation in the workforce.
- Role Models and Mentors: Encouraging successful women leaders to serve as role models and mentors can inspire and guide other women in their professional journeys.
Mains PYQQ1: Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India. (2021) Q2: What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space? (2019) Q3: Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women’s organization free from gender bias. Comment. (2013) |
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