JASHANDEEP KAUR
Shemrock School It is unfortunate that even in the 21st century we are thinking and looking for ways to ensure participation of women in toplevel jobs in government and private sector. This, however, cannot be avoided anymore. We need to take concrete steps in this direction to ensure greater representation of women in every sphere of life.
For jobs, more opportunities need to be provided to women in technical and professional education. This can be achieved by giving relaxation in terms of marks, reservation of seats and improving working skills.
Secondly, women should be motivated to choose a career full of adventure. The Centre has already taken steps by clearing the way for girls in the defence sector.
We also need to make legal procedures more easy and approachable. Acts dealing with rights of women should be made in such a way that they help them to do their duties in a favourable environment.
The gender pay gap needs to be fixed. Equal pay for equal work will definitely encourage greater representation of women at the top level in both private and government sector. Whatever path we choose, we must welcome women as leader in every sphere. In India, preference is given to men over women for senior positions as it is assumed that latter won’t be able to give their best.
To address this, equal responsibility of homemaking has to be shared by the two. A big societal mindset change is a sinequa-non for this change. Government has to inculcate it through educational interventions. A legal framework is required to stop oppression women face at homes. Pay disparity and low chances of promotion are other factors affecting the motivation level and ambition of women.
Government must provide legal backing to eliminate pay disparity. Support has to come from companies as well.
Women sometimes leave their job when they don’t get support. To prevent this, companies must conform to policies promoting empathy towards women, providing them access to flexible timings and favourable working conditions.
Providing women with ample opportunities will equip them with the capability to lead organisations.
Embracing gender diversity at workplace is not a feminist notion anymore, but an essential agenda to drive efficiency in organisations and build the nation.