Do 21% of Indian Women Really Lack Leadership Development?
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Synopsis
Discover the alarming stats on Indian women's leadership opportunities and work-life balance struggles. A recent report reveals that 21% lack leadership development, while 22% face challenges in balancing work and personal life. Explore the implications for organizations and the need for equitable treatment.
Key Takeaways
- 21% of women lack access to leadership training.
- 22% struggle with achieving work-life balance.
- 18% face inflexible job arrangements.
- Equitable treatment is essential for trust.
- Women’s representation in leadership remains low.
New Delhi, Sep 24 (NationPress) A staggering 21% of working women in India are reported to have limited access to leadership development opportunities. Additionally, 22% struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance, while 18% face challenges due to inflexible work arrangements, according to a recent report released on Wednesday.
These challenges are particularly pronounced for women returning from maternity leave. They often face rigid schedules, inadequate leave policies, and a lack of empathy from management, which contributes to heightened stress levels and increased attrition rates.
Furthermore, the report highlights that 15% of women feel they do not receive fair treatment at work. This perception of inequality is a major obstacle to fostering trust and inclusion in the workplace.
Equitable treatment is not just a matter of ethics; it is also a crucial business advantage. Employees who perceive fair treatment are 4.1 times more likely to feel that their management genuinely cares for them.
Moreover, they are significantly more inclined to believe that performance evaluations are conducted fairly and that favoritism is absent among managers.
The report emphasizes, "Organizations flourish when individuals feel valued and supported. When everyone, regardless of background, gender, identity, or race, experiences a sense of belonging, their impact is magnified exponentially."
Despite recent advancements, women’s representation in the workplace has stagnated at 26% over the past three years, with only 15% occupying Executive and C-Suite positions and just 8% serving as CEOs. By the year 2025, the Historically Excluded Groups (HEGs), which include women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and other marginalized communities, are projected to represent 30% of India’s workforce.
Women constitute a significant portion of this demographic, but their representation consistently declines at each level of the leadership hierarchy, as noted in the report.
Nevertheless, the study also points out some positive trends. Key factors such as reliable management, equitable treatment, decreased office politics, and workplaces that foster engagement and enjoyment are emerging as essential strategies for cultivating inclusive environments.
Point of View
I recognize the critical need for equitable treatment and leadership opportunities for women in India. This report highlights systemic barriers that require immediate attention. Organizations must prioritize inclusivity and support to ensure that all employees can thrive, which is essential for sustainable business growth.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Indian women lack leadership development opportunities?
According to the report, 21% of Indian working women lack access to leadership development opportunities.
How many women face work-life balance issues?
22% of Indian working women struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
What are the challenges faced by women returning from maternity leave?
Women returning from maternity often encounter rigid schedules, insufficient leave policies, and limited empathy from management.
What is the representation of women in leadership roles?
Women’s representation has plateaued at 26%, with only 15% in Executive and C-Suite roles and 8% in CEO positions.
What are Historically Excluded Groups (HEGs)?
HEGs include women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and other underrepresented communities, projected to represent 30% of India's workforce by 2025.
