Number of Indian Women in IT Surges - Building Gender Balanced Business

• 6.7 million women work in the Indian information technology-business process outsourcing industry, a 60% rise in two years.

• The data come from a 2009 gender inclusivity survey of 45 top Indian tech firms by the human resources consulting firm Mercer and the information technology association Nasscom. It said the sector’s growth in female employment had helped India have the most working women of any country.

• But the report said companies need to upgrade women’s professional skills through mentorship programs and internal studies on roadblocks to women’s advancement. It also called for tax advantages for organisations that meet certain goals in hiring and empowering women.

• The increase in female employment was aided by the companies’ adopting such practices as transportation policies as well as flexible working hours and leave policies.

• Other major draws for women were anti-harassment policies, strong healthcare and awareness programs, women’s lounges and recreational activities, the survey found.

The Economic Times article