The recently concluded ASSOCHAM 5th Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Awards and Conclave 2024 brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates to discuss and celebrate the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Chief Guest Delina Khongdup, Member of the National Commission for Women (NCW), delivered a powerful address emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to create inclusive work environments for women and all genders.
Gender Diversity: A Work in Progress
While India has made strides in promoting gender diversity, there remains much ground to cover. An amendment to the Companies Act aimed at increasing women’s representation on corporate boards has been a positive step.
However, the reality is stark: less than 5% of women occupy CEO positions in the Indian workforce. Corporate India must recognize this gap and actively bridge the gender balance at all levels within organizations.
Non-payment of maternity benefits and workplace harassment are critical issues that demand immediate attention for the betterment of working women.
ASSOCHAM: Inclusive Leadership and Employee Wellbeing for Sustainable Growth
Srimathi Shivashankar, Chairperson of the ASSOCHAM National Empowerment Council and Corporate Vice President at HCL Technologies, emphasized that diversity and inclusion are no longer mere buzzwords; they are essential pillars of sustainable growth.
Organizations must inspire action and collaboration to create a future where everyone—regardless of their background—can thrive.
Ravi Bhatnagar, Co-Chairperson of the ASSOCHAM National CSR & Empowerment Councils, stressed the importance of recognizing employee wellbeing.
When employees feel valued and supported, gender diversity can truly take center stage.
India’s mission should be to achieve diversity, equity, and inclusion, thereby contributing to the nation’s development. Embracing diversity is not just a choice; it’s a responsibility.
Unity in Diversity: Extending India’s Heritage to Workplaces
Dnyan Shah, Co-Chairperson of the ASSOCHAM National Empowerment Council and SVP & Global Head at Mphasis, highlighted the need to extend India’s heritage of unity in diversity to workplaces.
Creating environments where every individual feels empowered to contribute is crucial. Inclusive workplaces lead to a prosperous India. Additionally, providing training sessions for persons with disabilities is an urgent requirement.
Gurpreet Arora, Head of Group Finance Service Delivery India at UBS Business Solution (India) Pvt. Ltd., emphasized that true inclusion means bridging gaps not only across regions and languages but also across gender, ability, and opportunity.
Every individual, regardless of their background or identity, should feel a sense of belonging. In a diverse nation like India, inclusion is not just desirable—it’s imperative.
ASSOCHAM Recognizing Excellence: Award Winners
The award ceremony celebrated organizations that have championed diversity and inclusion. Here are the winners in various categories:
Best Employer for Policies on Diversity & Inclusion: Edelmen India Pvt Ltd (small category), Myntra designs pvt ltd (Medium category), KPMG India (large category).
Best Employer for Persons with Disabilities: Bizsolindia Services Private Limited (small category), CSG Systems International (India) Private Limited (medium category), TVS motor company (large category), Reflections Info Systems Pvt Ltd (small category), Swiss Re (medium category), KPMG (large category).
D&I Champion: Devendra Patodi (Vice President – Nagpur Plant Operations) CEAT Limited (large category), Ruchika Malhan Varma (Chief Marketing, Customer and Impact Officer) Future Generali India Insurance Co. Ltd. (medium category).
In conclusion, the ASSOCHAM conclave serves as a reminder that diversity and inclusion are not just organizational goals; they are fundamental to building a stronger, more equitable India.
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