Industrial Economist (IE): Whatdoes women empowerment mean to you?
Sudha Ramen (SR): Women empowerment is not only about working or financial empowerment. I think education itself is a tool towards empowerment, it comes from both society and educational institutions. People should be open-minded to learn from both the environment. Education transforms a woman’s life; it gives her wisdom, ability and aspirations towards growth. A person with wisdom knows learning is a never-ending process. Women need to have big dreams, in whichever domain they are, call centres, medical field, public service, or creativity. Education and dreaming should never stop.
IE: What policies can help bring more women into the workforce?
SR: Tamil Nadu has built a strong ecosystem that supports women, like Puthumei Pen Thittam, Magalir Vidiyal Payanam, Kalaingnar Magalir Urimai Thogai, Thozhi Women’s hostel for education incentives, mobility support, accommodations for working women and welfare schemes. Policies that encourage higher education, entrepreneurship and workforce participation are already in place. Tamil Nadu has a high gross enrollment ratio for women taking up higher education studies and working in top positions. In the manufacturing sector, across the country, almost 43 per cent are from Tamil Nadu. However, the real transformation happens when society changes its mindset. Women should not be seen as a burden but as productive contributors to the economy. Education must extend beyond women to the entire community, promoting gender sensitivity. Structural support is important, but individual will and social acceptance are equally important to bring women into the workforce.
IE: Tamil Nadu is moving towards a USD 1 trillion economy. How important is women’s participation in reaching this goal?
SR: It’s a collective process and women’s role is significant. Today, we are recognising the care economy, in which women’s work in households is being acknowledged. Women contribute to knowledge economies and sunrise sectors as well. The state is focusing on skilling women for inclusive growth. Now industries practice diversity, equity and inclusion. With informed policies and affirmative actions, women are becoming an indispensable part of the growth trajectory. Growth must be decentralised so women from all backgrounds can participate.
IE: What is your message to young women?
SR: There are many opportunities around us. Every day is a journey toward your destiny and it is not fixed; it keeps changing. Growth is a nonstop process; you continue to learn and move forward. Also, time discipline is essential. Women are multitaskers. But, there must be time for family, work and oneself. My advice is to pick up a hobby. It could be anything that helps recharge oneself and also helps the mind to work clearly.