Bangalore, 23 August 2024: As Women’s Equality Day approaches on August 26th, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is taking significant strides to promote gender equality and empower women within its organization. Aligning its efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), TKM has launched a series of initiatives designed to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
With a long-term goal of increasing female representation in its workforce to 30% by 2030, TKM has introduced a range of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These include establishing a dedicated senior-level team to drive DEI efforts, conducting extensive industry benchmarking, and aligning with the International Labour Organization’s 2030 agenda to create more opportunities for women.
Earlier this year, on March 13, TKM marked a significant milestone by celebrating the capping ceremony of its first cohort of 55 women supervisors, along with welcoming 160 new female team members. This brings the total number of women in the company to over 450, with plans to surpass 850 by the end of the year. In addition, TKM has introduced a Gender Diversity Standard Operating Procedure Manual, which outlines best practices for promoting gender diversity, including unconscious bias surveys and the “Samvardhana” sensitization program. These efforts highlight TKM’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment that not only empowers women but also enhances the overall quality and competitiveness of its workforce.
Commenting on the occasion, G. Shankara, Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration at TKM, stated, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, gender equality is more than just a goal; it’s a critical driver of our success and sustainability. Our commitment to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace is deeply rooted in our organizational values, and we’re proud to be making significant progress in empowering women within our workforce. By setting ambitious targets and investing in the necessary infrastructure and training programs, we are not only enhancing gender diversity but also fostering a work environment where every individual can thrive. As we observe Women’s Equality Day, we reaffirm our dedication to creating equal opportunities and paving the way for a more equitable future for all.”
TKM’s dedication to gender diversity is further reflected in the expansion of its training programs. The Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) has doubled its intake to 1200 students, with up to 600 female students, while the Toyota Kaushalya program offers a two-year training course for rural and economically disadvantaged students. To support these initiatives, TKM has made substantial infrastructure investments, including the construction of a new dormitory at TTTI to accommodate 600 female students, and the enhancement of safety features and facilities such as upgraded restrooms and locker rooms.
As TKM celebrates Women’s Equality Day, the company renews its commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women. This vision extends beyond the organization itself, encompassing the entire value chain and broader society. TKM believes that diversity and inclusion are not only corporate responsibilities but also societal benefits that contribute to the development of world-class talent and overall happiness. Through targeted initiatives and programs, TKM remains dedicated to supporting the professional growth and advancement of women, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to excel in their careers.
