The Logistics Sector Pushes For Greater Participation Of Women

The Indian logistics sector, one of the largest globally, is pivotal to the country's economic growth, connecting key economic elements through transportation, warehousing, and supply chain solutions that span suppliers to end customers. As India aims to achieve an ambitious GDP target of US$ 5.5 trillion by 2027, the logistics sector's importance continues to grow. Currently, it contributes around 14% to the GDP and provides employment to over 22 million people. 

Harnessing Women’s Potential In Logistics Sector 

The sector is today driven by technological advancements, infrastructure development, and government initiatives. The adoption of digital technologies, enhanced connectivity, and innovations like Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Global Positioning System (GPS) have improved operational efficiency while reducing costs. The rise of e-commerce and increased international trade further fuel demand for streamlined logistics solutions.

Most importantly, the government launched several initiatives to boost the efficiency of the sector. Projects like Dedicated Freight Corridors, Multi-modal Logistics Parks, the Parivahan portal, PM GatiShakti, and the National Logistics Policy are aimed at streamlining the movement of goods, reducing turnaround times, and enhancing overall sector performance. These efforts are positioning India's logistics industry to support the country's growth trajectory effectively.

Women In The Logistics

Most notably, a new and promising trend is picking up pace in the sector. It is now seeing a push for greater women's participation. This shift goes beyond creating gender equality, recognizing that diversity boosts efficiency, creativity, and business success.

Thanks to the measures by different stakeholders, the number of women in the industry is increasing by the day. Moreover, tech integration is another key reason behind the surge of women in the logistics workforce. The introduction of automation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) devices has made logistics less physically demanding and more about operational efficiency, planning, and problem-solving. These developments are opening doors for women, who are now able to take on various roles.

Initiatives Encouraging Women's Participation

Recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion, both the government and the industry are taking steps to promote gender balance in the logistics industry. Several initiatives and programs have been launched to encourage more women to join the workforce. 

The Indian government’s focus on skill development and gender inclusivity under programs like Skill India and Make in India has provided a platform to encourage women’s participation in logistics. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) is actively training women to take up roles in logistics, supply chain management, and warehousing through specialized courses and certifications.

Moreover, many private logistics companies are taking proactive measures to increase female representation. 

In addition, several organisations are focusing on skill development tailored specifically for women, offering training programs in technology and supply chain management. Logistics companies are partnering with academic institutions and NGOs to provide women with the technical skills required to succeed in the sector. For instance, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) launched the Logistics Skill Council, which aims to train women in various aspects of logistics and supply chain management.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives by Ecom Express

Ecom Express recognizes that a diverse workforce is essential for fostering innovation, creativity, and a competitive edge in the logistics industry. Recognizing that diverse teams foster innovation and resilience, the company has taken bold steps to foster a workplace that reflects the communities it serves.

A key focus has been increasing the participation of women, including in non-traditional roles like delivery executives. As of March 2024, women made up 5.93% of the workforce, with 9.74% holding leadership roles. To ensure their safety and support, the company conducts quarterly audits across facilities, assessing infrastructure, transportation, surveillance, and personal care amenities. These efforts aim to create an inclusive environment that encourages more women to join and grow within the organization.

Necessity Of Gender Diversity In Logistics

Beyond social equity, there is a strong business case for increasing women’s participation in logistics. Studies have shown that companies with diverse workforces tend to outperform their less diverse counterparts. Diverse teams bring varied perspectives, which can result in more innovative solutions and improved problem-solving capabilities. 

Furthermore, as consumer expectations rise and e-commerce grows, logistics companies are under pressure to deliver faster and more efficiently. To stay competitive, companies must tap into a broader talent pool, including women, who bring unique skills and perspectives to the table.

As India today strives to become a developed nation by 2047, the logistics sector must emphasise contributing more to this goal. Indeed, the sector continues to grow and modernize. To further push its boundaries, it needs to place a greater emphasis on diversity in the workforce, particularly harnessing women's talent. It's heartening to see that the push for greater women's participation is gaining momentum. Furthermore, by breaking down traditional gender barriers, the sector can unlock a wealth of untapped potential, driving both economic growth and social progress.

Authored by Swati Mor, CHRO, Ecom Express Limited