Today, women make up only 11-15% of India’s manufacturing workforce, but their impact is immense. From operating CNC machines to leading EV production lines, women are pushing their boundaries and taking up new roles. Companies are now understanding the value of gender diversity, with many aiming to increase women’s representation to 50% in the next decade. But to make this a reality, we must address the barriers that hold women back.
While OEMS are working to increase women’s representation, most jobs remain informal and contractual, posing a challenge for inclusive employment. Many manufacturing environments still have a male-dominated culture, where women face gender bias, limited career development opportunities, and underrepresentation in top leadership roles.
Wage disparities are another issue women often earn less than men for the same work. For instance, a woman CNC operator with 10 years of experience might earn Rs 9,000, while her male counterpart earns Rs 12,000. Workplace amenities like childcare, safe transport, and ergonomic workspaces are also lacking in many smaller factories, making it harder for women to balance work and family life.
But there is hope. The shift to EVs is creating new opportunities for women in manufacturing. EV production requires precision and technical skills, areas where women excel. With the right training and support, women can take on these roles and thrive.
A great example is Mary Barra, the first female CEO of General Motors. Under her leadership, GM has advanced in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and sustainability. In India, inspiring leaders like Madhumita Agarwal (CEO &Founder, Oben Electric), Hemalatha Annamalai (Founder & CEO, Ampere Vehicles), and Kausalya Nandakumar (COO, Mahindra Electric) are driving similar transformations.
It is very clear from the names above that when women take on leadership roles, they bring fresh perspectives that help companies solve problems, adapt to changes, and innovate faster. They have played a key role in introducing modern technologies like artificial intelligence, automation, and smart manufacturing, which improve efficiency, reducecosts, and enhance quality. Studies show that companies with women in leadership see a 49% boost in financial performance.
In a world where productivity and profitability are core, it’s easy to lose sight of the human element in leadership. Women, on the other hand advocate for safer work environments and employee’s mental well-being, benefiting not just women but the entire workforce.
Encouraging young girls to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education is the first step towards increasing female representation in manufacturing. Partnerships with educational institutions and outreach programs can help spark interest in these fields from an early age.
To encourage this growth, companies should invest in mentorship programmes, leadership training for women, and policies that ensure fair hiring and promotions. By supporting women at all levels, the industry can become more diverse, dynamic, and resilient.
Targeted upskilling programmes, particularly in EV technologies, can equip women with future-ready skills. Inclusive workplace policies, such as ergonomic shop floors, safe transportation, childcare facilities, maternity benefits, and flexible work arrangements, are essential for creating a supportive environment that helps retain women in the workforce. Additionally, gender-sensitive leadership development programs and mentorship initiatives can drive the way for women to advance into managerial and senior roles. Policymakers can further support this transition by incentivising employers to promote gender diversity and providing financial assistance for women pursuing EV-related technical education. The road ahead is full of possibilities, and we can pave the way for it.
