Dr N Anandavalli(NA) comes from a modest middle-class family. It was uncommon back then, for girls to pursue engineering, yet her family encouraged her. With their support, she went on to pursue Masters. Post marriage, her husband supported her to purse doctorate, almost 15 years later. She joined CSIR-SERC as junior scientist in 1998. Since then, she has served in various capacities and risen to be appointed as the Director of the organisation.
Have you been treated differently for being a woman?
I have not faced any situation where I was treated differently for being a woman. Moreover, I have never expected any privilege, just because I am a woman. I always compete as a person of equal capability.
Experiences that had a huge impact on you…
I have always learnt from experiences, both good and bitter. From bitter experiences, I understood where I have to strengthen myself, while good experiences gave me energy to move forward. Challenges always make one learn.
What must be done to attract more women to workforce?
Already, there are many schemes and avenues to attract more women to workforce. I am happy that more women are also taking up challenges. Normally, women face career break at two instances in life, one after marriage and another after child birth. Policies have to be framed so that women are encouraged during their earlier career. I have seen cases where women are not selected because of these issues. There should be a system where women can be facilitated to tide over these career breaks.
How to address gender-based pay disparity ?
I think, this prevails more in the unorganised sector such as labour force in agriculture, construction etc. Pay should be based on the nature of work they do rather than on gender. Not only policies have to be framed, but the implementation is also equally important.
What do you think men can do to help women join the workforce?
Words of encouragement, treating women with respect and small appreciations are few things that men could do. I am sure, women too will reciprocate the same.
Policy and support system for inclusivity…
We have to co-work to achieve. It starts from individuals and families. Even today women are over-burdened with responsibilities at work and home. This should change and families should become empathetic.
