Women’s Increasing Role in India’s Manufacturing Sector

India’s manufacturing landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with an increasing number of women joining the workforce. In 2019-20, the Annual Survey of Industries reported that 1.6 million out of 8 million workers in formal manufacturing were women. This means women made up 19.7% of the workforce. This shift is not merely about diversity; it’s a strategic embrace of the distinct skills women contribute to the sector.

Women’s Role in Manufacturing

Historically, women’s involvement in manufacturing hovered between 10 to 20 percent. Today, their aptitude for learning, attention to detail, and consistent performance are highly valued. In the Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) sector, people have noted women’s dexterity in handling delicate components, sometimes doubling productivity.

Trends in Workforce Participation

States like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are leading the change, with a noticeable increase in female employment in manufacturing, especially in EMS units. State support and a wave of investment in new EMS facilities bolster this trend, with a preference for hiring local women.

More young women aged 18-30 are starting to work in manufacturing, especially in assembly line jobs in the EMS industry. More women are working in factories and states are encouraging EMS companies to improve production by hiring more female employees.

Challenges for Women in Manufacturing

Despite progress, women in manufacturing still confront obstacles such as mental barriers, lack of job awareness, and the physical strain of tasks requiring gloves, prolonged sitting, and repetition. First-generation female workers often lack guidance on workplace norms, leading to high attrition rates. Life events like marriage and childbirth further impact women’s job retention.

Approximately 50% of women exit manufacturing roles before turning 30, often shortly after returning from maternity leave, due to inadequate childcare facilities. To prevent the loss of female talent, it’s essential to address these issues comprehensively. Workplaces that prioritize health, safety, and well-being, offering clean environments, medical support, and accommodations for late or night shifts, will retain and benefit from a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Enhancing Work Conditions for Women

Companies must invest in health and safety, employee training, and equitable compensation to foster a better work environment for women in electronics manufacturing. Measures like health protocols, ergonomic workstations, protective gear, and skill development can boost productivity and job satisfaction.

Advancing Gender Equality

Reforming labour laws to enhance security, introduce flexible shifts, and provide dormitory accommodations is vital for increasing women’s participation in manufacturing. Some large organisations have already implemented such measures. These changes will encourage more women to join the workforce, contributing to a balanced and dynamic industry.

To achieve gender equality in manufacturing, we must address women’s challenges. We must also change workplace practices and support policies promoting women’s contributions. By doing this, we can maintain progress and benefit from the skills that women bring to the industry. This will help maintain progress and benefit from the skills women bring to the industry.

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The original article was featured in OEM Update.