HOW CAN THE FUTURE OF WORK BECOME EASIER FOR WOMEN IN INDIA?

The outbreak of the coronavirus, the consequent lockdown, adherence to norms like self-isolation, and social distancing has compelled organizations worldwide to switch to a work-from-home model. The Govt. has recently relaxed the conditions of WFH for the IT/ ITES industry. Even as restrictions are being slowly relaxed everywhere, there are fewer chances of getting back to pre-corona lives - anytime soon. Companies have transformed their way of working and are gearing up to work from home in the coming years, which may remain one of the permanent methods of work life.

- Geeta Lachireddy

Major changes are underway in workplaces affecting all areas of work and how work is being monitored/facilitated for execution. A silver lining to these dark clouds of new normal has been the boost in the gig economy and increase of women in the workforce. According to LinkedIn’s recent labour market update, the participation of women in India’s workforce rose to 37 Percent as of July-end from 30 Percent in April.

The trend of work-from-home with its innate advantage of flexible working hours has boosted gender parity and empowered many Indian women to embrace a second career-opportunity. The new normal has presented a plethora of opportunities for women professionals, as it allows them to contribute valuable skills while retaining flexibility.