It’s one of the defining stories of India in the 21st century – the way women disappear from the workplace. In some sectors, it’s because they never get a foot in the door at all. In many others, it’s because they get married, move away, have children, and then find no way to get back to their careers. At the highest levels in corporate India, it’s simply about who gets acknowledged as a leader, who gets to have power, and who gets to make a company’s biggest decisions – all overwhelmingly male.

 

In this episode, Parmesh Shahani talks to Amrita Padda, Chief People Officer at Airtel, about redefining how corporate India approaches inclusion and gender representation.

 

Amrita discusses her experiences as a woman leader in male-dominated industries, and her vision for fostering a genuinely inclusive corporate culture. From innovative programs like "Step In" for women returning to work after career breaks, to policies addressing practical challenges like driving licenses and hygienic washrooms, she has implemented solutions that drive real change. Amrita also shares her thoughts on systemic changes, the nuances of performative versus genuine diversity efforts, and her hopes for a more equal future.

 

Tune in to hear how Amrita Padda is working to create systems that dismantle structural barriers and translate intent into impactful action.

 

Learn more about the Godrej DEI Lab and our work at https://www.godrejdeilab.com/.

 

Our Guest:

Amrita Padda

 

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Email us at [email protected] / [email protected]

 

This is a Maed In India Production; check us out at www.maedinindia.in

Creative Director: Mae Mariyam Thomas

Project Manager: Shaun Fanthome

Head of Audio Production: Kartik Kulkarni

Producer: Meghna Gulati 

Sound Editing & Mixing: Nihar Temkar