MSDE takes Proactive Measures to Make Workplaces Safe for Women

By: WE Staff | Thursday, 1 September 2022

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) signed a partnership with UN Women, an organisation under the United Nations, to advance gender equality in skill development, employability, and entrepreneurship. This partnership is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for empowering women for India's rapid development in the twenty-first century.

In accordance with this approach, a series of trainings will be held for MSDE officials over the course of five weeks. The training would not only give a precise explanation of what sexual harassment is, but it would also try to raise people's understanding of the complaint procedure.

This programme represents MSDE's commitment to empowering women as economic agents and equal partners for the inclusive growth of the nation and is a component of its endeavour to take proactive measures to ensure a safe workplace for women.

Krishna Kumar Dwivedi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, praised the initiative and stated that while India has made great strides in the last 25 years toward empowering women and securing their rights, there is still much work to be done in order to achieve true gender equality at the workplace.

As women now challenge long-held patriarchal beliefs and enter the workforce, it is vital to give them financial security so they won't be frightened to speak out against sexual harassment in the workplace.

Speaking of the collaboration, he also expressed gratitude to UN Women for working with the ministry to raise awareness among men and women about what constitutes and does not constitute sexual harassment as well as how to quickly resolve such instances.

Speaking at the event, Suhela Khan, Country Program Manager for UN Women, said that as part of a larger partnership with the ministry on mainstreaming gender in its policies and programmes, UN Women is thrilled to organise the capacity-building training programme for MSDE officials on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act). In addition, she added, this programme lays the path for such future projects and reaffirms the ministry's commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment through fostering secure workplaces.

The POSH Act was passed by the Indian government with the intention of giving women a safe and secure workplace. It defines sexual harassment, outlines the complaint and investigation processes, and specifies the appropriate course of action. It expanded the already-existing Vishaka regulations.