Regional Inclusivity Index in India: South India Leads the Way for Women
Introduction
The Industrial Inclusion Score (IIS) provides critical insights into how inclusive industries in Indian cities are towards women. According to the 2024 Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI) index by the Avtar Group, South India has emerged as the most inclusive region with an average IIS of 10.11, followed by West India at 9.99. However, East India lags significantly behind with a score of 4.47. This article dives into the details of IIS, explores regional disparities, and highlights top-performing cities.
What is the Industrial Inclusion Score (IIS)?
The IIS is a key metric that evaluates how industries include and empower women across three main parameters:
- Inclusive Organisations: Companies actively fostering gender diversity.
- Inclusive Industries: Sectors that encourage women’s participation in leadership and workforce roles.
- Career Enablers: Infrastructure, policies, and practices that support women’s professional growth, such as childcare facilities, maternity leave, and flexible work schedules.
Regional IIS Scores: A Comparison
| Region | Average IIS (2024) |
|---|---|
| South India | 10.11 |
| West India | 9.99 |
| North India | 6.89 |
| East India | 4.47 |
- South India: Led by Bengaluru (IIS: 81.33), showcasing significant inclusivity.
- West India: Mumbai spearheads with an IIS of 62.96.
- North India: Relatively moderate inclusivity.
- East India: Requires substantial improvements in inclusivity parameters.
Top Cities for Women in India (2024)
The TCWI index ranked cities based on their IIS scores. Below are the top 10 cities:
| Rank | City | IIS (2024) |
| 1 | Bengaluru | 81.33 |
| 2 | Mumbai | 62.96 |
| 3 | Chennai | 61.40 |
| 4 | Hyderabad | 58.75 |
| 5 | Pune | 57.89 |
| 6 | Kolkata | 54.60 |
| 7 | Delhi | 52.10 |
| 8 | Gurugram | 51.30 |
| 9 | Ahmedabad | 50.45 |
| 10 | Coimbatore | 49.85 |
Bengaluru: A Role Model for Inclusivity
Bengaluru leads with the highest IIS of 81.33, thanks to:
- Technology and IT Sectors: Offering flexible work arrangements and skill development programs.
- Workplace Diversity Initiatives: Many companies have women in leadership roles.
- Supportive Ecosystem: Startups and established firms prioritize gender parity.
Mumbai’s Contribution to Inclusivity
Mumbai’s IIS of 62.96 highlights its corporate and cultural advancements:
- Financial Services: One of the most inclusive sectors for women.
- Entertainment Industry: Encourages creative leadership roles for women.
- Urban Infrastructure: Better childcare and transportation facilities.
Chennai’s Growing Momentum
Chennai secured the third position with an IIS of 61.40, driven by:
- Educational Opportunities: High literacy rates among women.
- IT and Manufacturing Sectors: Increasing gender representation.
- Policy Support: Companies offering equal pay and career development programs.
Challenges Facing East India
With an IIS of 4.47, East India faces:
- Limited Infrastructure: Lack of childcare facilities and career enablers.
- Traditional Work Norms: Fewer opportunities for women in leadership.
- Low Awareness: Limited DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) policies are implemented.
DEI Practices: Key to Success
The role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) cannot be overstated. Companies practicing DEI see:
- Higher Retention Rates: Women are more likely to stay in inclusive workplaces.
- Better Productivity: Inclusive teams outperform non-diverse ones.
- Enhanced Reputation: Companies attract better talent and customers.
External Resources for Further Learning
- Avtar Group – TCWI Index Overview
- Gender Equality in the Workplace (UN Women)
- Diversity and Inclusion Practices for Companies
Suggested YouTube Link
For a deeper dive, watch: “Top Cities for Women in India – Insights from TCWI 2024”
Future Prospects for Women in Indian Cities
Based on the 2024 data:
- South and West India: Expected to continue leading in inclusivity.
- North and East India: Focused efforts and policy changes are required to bridge the gap.
- Key Predictions: Greater adoption of DEI practices across sectors will lead to balanced development.
Conclusion
The IIS is more than a metric—it’s a lens to view progress and gaps in gender inclusivity. While South India sets an example, other regions must intensify efforts. By investing in DEI strategies and infrastructure, India can create equitable opportunities for women, paving the way for a balanced and prosperous future.
FAQs
1. What is IIS, and why is it important?
The IIS evaluates how inclusive industries and organizations are towards women, focusing on opportunities and support systems.
2. Why is Bengaluru ranked as the top city for women?
Bengaluru’s robust IT ecosystem and progressive workplace policies earned it the highest IIS.
3. How can East India improve its inclusivity score?
By adopting DEI practices, improving infrastructure, and enabling career growth for women.
4. What role do organizations play in advancing inclusivity?
Organizations drive inclusivity through equal pay, leadership roles for women, and flexible work environments.