Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women both within the company and beyond. In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), TKM is rolling out a range of transformative measures to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace. The company has set a goal to increase the proportion of women in its workforce to 30% by 2030. To meet this target, TKM has launched several Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including establishing a dedicated senior-level DEI team, conducting extensive industry benchmarking, and aligning with the International Labour Organization’s 2030 agenda for enhancing women’s opportunities.
On March 13, 2024, TKM celebrated a milestone with the graduation of its first batch of 55 women supervisors and the induction of 160 new female team members, bringing the total number of women in the company to over 450, with plans to exceed 850 by year’s end. The company has also introduced a Gender Diversity Standard Operating Procedure Manual, which outlines best practices for promoting gender diversity. Additional efforts, such as unconscious bias surveys and the “Samvardhana” sensitization program, highlight TKM’s comprehensive approach to creating a supportive and inclusive environment that empowers women and boosts overall workforce quality and competitiveness.
Mr. G. Shankara, Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration at TKM, stated, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, gender equality is not just a goal but a key driver of our success and sustainability. Our dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace is embedded in our core values, and we are proud of our progress in empowering women within our organization. By setting ambitious goals and investing in infrastructure and training, we are enhancing gender diversity and creating an environment where every individual can excel. As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day, we reaffirm our commitment to equal opportunities and a more equitable future for all.”
TKM’s focus on gender diversity is further demonstrated by expanding its training programs. The Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) now doubles its intake to 1200 students, with up to 600 spots reserved for female students. Additionally, the Toyota Kaushalya program provides a two-year training opportunity for rural and economically disadvantaged students. To support these initiatives, TKM has invested in new infrastructure, including a dormitory at TTTI for 600 female students and upgraded safety features and facilities such as restrooms and locker rooms.
As TKM celebrates Women’s Equality Day, the company reaffirms its dedication to gender equality and the empowerment of women, extending this vision beyond its own operations to the entire value chain and society. TKM believes that diversity and inclusion are not only corporate responsibilities but also societal benefits that foster world-class talent and widespread well-being. The company remains committed to supporting women’s professional development through targeted initiatives, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to succeed in their careers.
