Industrial Economist (IE): Can you share your professional journey?
Chandra Narasimhan (CN): My journey at LIC has been long and diverse spanning marketing, training, technology and administration. I worked at all levels and eventually retired as an executive director after leading the Chennai training centre. Before that, I headed in-house IT software development, managing nearly 200 developers during a critical transformation phase. I also led marketing operations in Hyderabad and Bengaluru, which helped me understand public needs and the importance of insurance as a protection tool.
IE: What is your perspective on women empowerment?
CN: From my perspective, women empowerment is that women should have the confidence to step up, have a free mind, think straight and be financially independent. When I took up a job in LIC in 1988, there were only eight women in my group but now they are on par with men. Take any field for that matter, call it science, technology, medicine, sports, women are continuing to shine and excel.
IE: Did you face any hurdles because you are a woman?
CN: Yes, gender bias was something I faced a lot in the initial stages. It was there at every stage like in assigning a job unit, foreign assignments, etc. Understanding the situations took time, but I crossed the hurdles. Also, safety is a major concern while assigning a job to women. If proper provisions are provided for women who stay for long hours, I’m sure a lot of young women will definitely shine, regardless of their work.
IE: How is insurance a tool for women empowerment?
CN: We run the BHIMA scheme, which trains rural women and creates sustainable earning opportunities for them, supported by special incentives that meaningfully enhance their incomes. Insurance as a profession is a tool for women’s empowerment. Beyond income, the profession builds self-confidence, enabling some to qualify for international forums showcasing their capabilities on a global stage.
IE: Having spent 37 years in LIC, your suggestions regarding work-life balance?
CN: I have seen a lot of young women who are excellent with their work, not taking up elevation because they convince themselves that they have other commitments and cannot take elevation. Work-life balance is sometimes misunderstood. Happiness must be found intentionally. If a woman is convinced that she can manage, support will eventually come. This goes for men as well. When it comes to work, there is no difference between genders; they have equal capabilities. It all lies in the mind sometimes.
IE: One piece of financial advice for women?
CN: Start investing from the time you start earning, regardless of the amount. Be aware of avenues and strengthen your financial literacy. Small investments will become huge over time. There is no quick solution when it comes to financial investments, so patience is the key.