Statistics indicate low representation of women in a managerial position 

Concerns have been raised about the country due to statistics indicating a low representation of women in managerial positions. 

According to the latest data from the Paris-based Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), women account for less than 20% of managerial roles compared to men.

The situation has further deteriorated in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic. In 2019, the percentage of women in managerial positions stood at 16.9%, which declined to 15.9% in 2022. A report highlights India’s unfavorable position in terms of women’s participation, particularly among the leading economies.

The representation of women in managerial positions in India is inadequate. As per the Companies Act 2013, it is mandatory for companies to have at least one woman director. However, the percentage of companies with women directors stood at 18.2% in 2022, a slight increase from 15.9% in 2019. Furthermore, Indian women face significant disparities in terms of earnings. While gender pay gaps exist globally, the situation is particularly dire in India. For instance, if a man earns Rs 100, a woman earns a mere Rs 22.8.

The earnings of women in Germany and Japan amount to Rs 57.2, while in Brazil and China they earn Rs 62.8 and Rs 64.4 respectively, all of which are equivalent to men earning Rs 100. Based on this comparison, women in the US earn Rs 67.5 and in South Africa, they earn Rs 71.4. India’s position in terms of gender equality is ranked at 127th globally, with African countries such as Kuwait, Myanmar, Japan, and Zambia surpassing India in this regard.

According to the World Economic Forum report, India’s position improved in 2020 and India jumped 8 places.

India ranks 26th in the world in terms of educational status of women. It is definitely a matter of satisfaction and this situation creates hope for Indian women as well.