Automation Drives Gender Equality in Manufacturing Sector
Automation is proving to be a game changer. A manufacturing plant in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, has become a trailblazer in enabling women to take on roles traditionally dominated by men, thanks to its automated assembly lines and advanced machinery. This transformation is not only redefining job roles but also empowering women workers who previously faced physical limitations on the shop floor.
In Tamil Nadu, a state renowned for its high number of women employed in factories, challenges still persist. Historically, factory floors were designed with men in mind, from conveyor belts positioned at a height suited to average male stature to tool shelves that were difficult for women to reach. These physical obstacles have been exacerbated in semi-automated factories, where heavy lifting and manual interventions were the norm.
However, at the Sriperumbudur plant, advanced automation has reduced the need for such interventions, allowing women to operate complex machinery and oversee automated processes.
With more than 40% of the plant’s 1,000-strong workforce consisting of women, the plant stands as a beacon of inclusivity. Automation has not only eliminated traditional physical barriers but has also opened up opportunities for women to perform a range of tasks across the manufacturing process, from operating data-driven tools to overseeing production lines. The push for gender inclusion extends beyond the workforce itself. A company official at the plant highlighted that gender-neutral hiring practices were consciously adopted, addressing subconscious biases and focusing on skills rather than gender.
By providing training and actively recruiting women including those returning from career breaks the company has created a more diverse and inclusive workplace. To further support women employees, the company established on-site crèches, enabling workers to bring their children to work or access nearby facilities with the company reimbursing costs. This initiative ensures that women workers do not have to choose between their careers and family responsibilities.
As India’s labour force ages and more women are encouraged to join the workforce, companies are increasingly recognising the need to bridge the gender gap in manufacturing. With automation driving more inclusive work environments, the sector is witnessing a shift towards a more balanced and equitable workforce, where machines are not just replacing jobs, but creating new opportunities, especially for women.
