Breaking the cycle: Business families must lead in safeguarding women

It's been over a month since the heartbreaking incident at RG Kar Medical College. Yet all that echoes is noise-politicking, protests, and marches-but still, no justice.

- NUPUR PAVAN BANG

Does it feel familiar? It painfully brings back memories of Nirbhaya, doesn't it? Despite ongoing reforms and heightened awareness, incidents of violence against women continue to plague our society. Words and reactionary superficial actions have not been enough to prevent these atrocities. However, if there is one group of people capable of driving meaningful change, it is India's business families and family businesses.

Business families as catalysts for societal change: As influential social units, major contributors to the economy, and owners who exert control over more than 90 per cent of Indian businesses, business families have the power to not only reshape corporate environments but also shift societal norms.

When women from these families take on active leadership roles, the ripple effect extends far beyond boardrooms. Economic success of women leaders at Thermax, Apollo, and Nalli group are well documented. But what also needs to be spoken about is their success in fostering gender-neutral environments that serve as models for other organisations.

Women-led family businesses: A Force for Gender Equality: Thermax, under the leadership of Anu Aga and Meher Pudumjee, has been instrumental in introducing mentorship programmes for women and implemented familyfriendly policies, suchas flexible working hours and childcare support.