In a prelude to International Women’s Day, women in executive positions spoke about the need for a healthy diversity ratio and how companies can create opportunities in supporting the role of women as agents of change, at a panel discussion — Innovate to change — organised by Infosys. Some of the panelists were Aruna Newton, Associate vice-president, Diversity and Inclusion, Infosys; Priti Shetty, director, HR, Flipkart; and Yamini Koganti, Associate V-P (HR), Swiggy.
In the opening remarks on the development of an ecosystem that supports and guides women to be an active part of the workforce, Ms. Koganti said, “Women are getting into the corporate [sector]. The challenge is to ensure that there is a healthy ratio of diversity.”
Ms. Shetty said, “We have different work streams on talent engagement, development, communication, polices and culture. We believe diversity cannot make an impact if we do not have inclusion.”
While speaking on postnatal care and working after a maternity break, Ms. Newton said, “At Infosys, we have child care support across India. The other part is reintegration of women into the workplace. Towards this, we have created infrastructural development centres. We call them the ‘mum’s net’. It is a safe space for women coming back. It offers learning, opportunities to interact with leadership in the organisation, provides a platform for career guidance and, importantly, continues to strengthen their confidence.”
Over the last few months, women across various fields have been standing up against sexual harassment in the workplace. Ms. Shetty emphasised the need for awareness and sensitisation as the first step towards tackling this problem, followed by committees that can address each case in a neutral manner ensuring safety, anonymity and timely redressal of the complaint.
Published - March 06, 2019 10:14 am IST
