The world of work is evolving, and women are at the forefront of this transformation. From breaking barriers to driving economic growth, they’ve made their mark. But challenges persist. Let’s explore recent policies and initiatives shaping the future for women in the workforce.
The Union Budget 2024-25 was unveiled on July 23, 2024. In her budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman underscored the pivotal role of women workforce in India’s economic growth.
The Union Budget allocates over ₹3 lakh crore for schemes benefiting women and girls. This substantial investment aims to boost gender diversity and economic empowerment.
Union Budget 2024-25: Initiatives for Women Workforce
The government plans to establish safe and affordable hostels for working women, addressing accommodation challenges faced by female migrants. Recognizing the work-life balance struggle, the budget emphasizes the creation of workplace creches to support working mothers. Tailored skill development initiatives will enhance women’s employability.
In conversation with SightsInPlus on Union Budget 2024-25, Dhruv Sarin, Co-founder, PB Partners said, “The women-specific skilling programs and initiatives to boost workforce participation are also laudable steps towards inclusive growth.”
Sumit Kumar, Chief Strategy Officer at TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship was quoted saying, “The budget underscores a strong commitment to increasing female participation in the workforce. It includes the establishment of working women’s hostels, creches, and women-specific skilling programs, along with support for women SHG enterprises.”
“An impressive ₹3 lakh crore allocation for schemes benefiting women and girls highlights the government’s dedication to women-led development,” he added.
14-Hour Workday Proposal in Karnataka: Impact on Women
The Karnataka government considered a proposal to extend IT sector work hours from 10 to 14 hours per day. However, this move faced opposition from the Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees’ Union.
The proposed amendment to the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishment Act could have significant implications for women. While it might encourage increased workforce participation, it also raises concerns about employee well-being and work-life balance.
Experts argue that such extended work hours could exacerbate mental health issues among IT employees, impacting both women and men.
“Women IT professionals not only have to manage office work but also household chores and care for their families. The extended hours will impact their physical and mental health.” Brinda, Human Rights Acitivist, emphasizes the multifaceted challenges faced by women.
Priya Varadarajan, Founder of Durga India, stated, “In the future, employers could face pressure in ensuring equality and safety. This could result in fewer of them being hired.”
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Supreme Court’s Stance on Menstrual Leave
The Supreme Court recently refused to entertain a plea for mandatory menstrual leave for female students and working women. The court expressed concern that such a policy might dissuade employers from hiring women.
Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, observed that while mandating menstrual leaves could encourage increased participation of women in the workforce, it might also have unintended consequences. He stated that such matters fall within the government policy domain and are not for the courts to directly address.
However, the court urged the Centre and states to formulate a model policy on menstrual leave. It emphasized the need for a balanced approach that considers both women’s well-being and workforce dynamics.
Returnship Programs for Women Workforce
As women professionals increasingly take career breaks for personal reasons—whether due to caregiving, family responsibilities, or health—the need for effective returnship programs has become crucial.
Top IT giants and many other organizations have launched various returnship programs offering paid internship with opportunities for full-time role.
This is being done to enable women workforce to return to work and contribute well. These returnship programs also aim at developing skills and training women professionals.
Summing Up!
While the recent initiatives and developments for women in workforce are both positive and negative, the impacts of it will be seen in coming times. As we move forward, let’s celebrate these milestones while keeping a watchful eye on the road ahead.
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