How Sri City is uplifting women, reshaping society

Sri City, a burgeoning global manufacturing hub in the country, boasts a remarkable story of inclusivity. Its transformation into a major employment center witnessed a surge in opportunities, particularly for women, bridging the gender gap in the workforce. There is a significant rise in female participation, offering newfound opportunities for previously marginalised women. This surge isn't just about individual empowerment; it nourishes economic growth, combats poverty, and tackles inequality, leading to broader societal progress. Because more than 50 of its workforce is women, it is being referred as "Stree City" (Women's City).

Women on the Shop Floor

Central to this paradigm shift are the concerted efforts of companies within Sri City to create avenues for female employment. With over 210 companies from 28 different countries, Sri City has embraced the utilisation of 'woman power' across its manufacturing industries. Supported by proactive company initiatives and Sri City's management, women from diverse backgrounds now play a pivotal role on shop floors, reshaping the industrial landscape of Sri City. Noteworthy industries such as Zen Linen, Mondelez, Alstom, Havells, Daiki Aluminium, Daikin, Encase Packaging, Blue Star, Colgate Palmolive, KGI Clothing, Hamilton, Panasonic, Pals Plush, Kellogg's, Everton Tea, MSR Garments, Unicharm and several others showcase a substantial female workforce ranging from 40 to 95 percent, underscoring the success of initiatives aimed at empowering women in the workplace.

Empowerment Policies

To attract and retain female talent, companies have built a safe and secure work environment and introduced a host of women-friendly features at their factories. They implemented various policies, including flexible work schedules, maternity benefits, onsite childcare facilities, and career advancement programs. These measures not only increase female workforce participation but also lay the foundation for sustained progress in the future.

In recognition of their inclusive, non-discriminatory, employee-oriented practices that have enabled, encouraged, and empowered women to work in a progressive environment, some of the companies, for example Mondelez, Unicharm and Kellogg's, etc., bagged ‘Best Companies for Women in India’ award, instituted by AVTAR Group, in association with US-based gender parity champion ‘Working Mother Media’.

B Sreenivasa Reddy, Executive Director of Axxelent Pharma, sheds light on the rationale behind favouring female employment. He emphasises that women typically exhibit superior commitment, sincerity, patience, and dedication compared to men. “Recognising these strengths, we meticulously orient and train our female workforce to further amplify their skill sets,” he said.

Commitment to Equality and Safety

"We've seen remarkable success and impact in pioneering this venture," says Sri City Founder Managing Director Dr Ravindra Sannareddy. “Our efforts and our industrial divisions' inclusive and employee-centric practices have helped women succeed in a progressive environment. The fact that more than half of Sri City's workforce are women from all around Andhra Pradesh has earned it the moniker "Sthree City”. Our community's women, including industrial workers and Krea University, IFMR, and IIIT students, feel protected thanks to the local police and district administration's unwavering support."

Sk Latheefa from the Quality Control Department at Axxelent Pharma confidently asserts that Sri City provides a secure and welcoming workspace. She highlights the company's commitment to ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for female employees, enabling them to work without hesitation during night shifts.

A Transformation with Lasting Impact

The impact of Sri City's efforts is far-reaching. Studies have shown a twofold increase in economic prosperity, expanded educational opportunities, and boosted vocational training for women and their families. This, combined with their growing workforce presence, has led to a community shift in gender roles, valuing women's contribution and inspiring future generations towards a more equitable society. Sri City's success story serves as an inspiration for other organisations. Their commitment to gender equality through inclusive policies and training programs paves the way for a brighter future where women can thrive and contribute to a more progressive and prosperous society.