Rising female presence in Kerala's IT parks; Driven by attractive benefits

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: While the number of women choosing the IT sector for work in the country is relatively low, the situation is different in Kerala. Half of the 1.5 lakh employees working in Thiruvananthapuram Technopark, Kochi Infopark and Kozhikode Cyberpark are women and they also hold top positions in the IT sector.

Women make up only 34 percent of this sector in the country. However, the number of women in Thiruvananthapuram Technopark has exceeded 45 percent. The presence of better infrastructure and a women-friendly environment attract them to IT parks in Kerala. While the work-from-home scheme was initially implemented to navigate the crisis during the Covid period, many individuals continue to embrace it as it helps them balance work and family life. The hybrid work system, which allows for a combination of office and home work, has also provided relief. Around 30 to 35 percent of the companies in Thiruvananthapuram Technopark are operating in hybrid mode.

Some companies in IT parks offer higher salaries and bonuses to incentivize the return of employees who have taken temporary leave. To support this, they receive guidance from the Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission and Start-Up Mission. In addition to maternity leave, paternity leave is also provided by companies for a few days, recognizing that parenting responsibilities are equally shared between both parents.

Facilities:

Organizations like Women Inclusive in IT, along with IT parks, provide daycare services for taking care of babies. They also organize women-only excursions, facilitate friendly groups and offer mentoring opportunities.

Percentage of Company Employees who are Women:

Technopark - 486- 71,000 - 45

Infopark, Kochi - 580 - 67,000 - 40

Cyberpark, Kozhikode - 84 - 2100 - 40

Sujo Jacob, Vice President of the Fingent Project Management Office, emphasized the need for a change in society's perception that family care and household chores are solely a woman's responsibility.

‘Technopark is like a second home. I never thought of leaving because of the safety and friendly atmosphere here.' – Asha worker