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Global Insights to Empower Women in the Workforce

By Lodha

Women in India have been part of the workforce since colonial times, but their roles have often been restricted. Despite constitutional guarantees of equal rights, societal norms have confined women to sectors like education, healthcare, and clerical work.

The economic boom of the 1980s and 1990s started opening doors beyond clerical roles. The 21st century brought a surge in women entering STEM fields, supported by legislation and government initiatives. Yet, many face obstacles hindering career growth.

Safety concerns at work and during commutes often force women to quit. Deep-seated patriarchal values prioritize family over careers post-marriage. Equal pay remains elusive despite qualifications.

India's female labor participation rate of 37% lags globally due to household duties. To achieve 8% GDP growth by 2030, adding 68 million women to the workforce is crucial, potentially boosting GDP 60%.

Learnings from global initiatives offer insights.

Bangladesh's WING initiative, supported by UNDP, UN Women, and UNCDF, aided 30,000 women in formal employment through training and financial aid.

The U.S. saw public safety and job growth with more women in law enforcement.

Malaysia incentivizes hiring women with tax cuts.

Vietnam boasts high female labor force participation due to robust gender laws.

India can adapt these strategies to its unique socio-economic context:

• Embrace flexible work arrangements and on-site childcare.
• Provide vocational training in high-demand fields.
• Improve public transport safety.
• Offer tax incentives for hiring women in diverse roles.

Implementing these measures could empower more women to thrive in India's workforce, fostering economic growth and gender equality.

Reference data from PIB, DGE, KPMG, UNDP, IMF (Kathryn Moore is Head of Women’s Empowerment, Lodha Foundation)

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By Kathryn Moore, Head of Women’s Empowerment, Lodha Foundation