Q6. (a) "In Indian culture and value system, an equal opportunity has been provided irrespective of gender identity. The number of women in public service has been steadily increasing over the years.” Examine the gender-specific challenges faced by public servants and suggest suitable measures to increase their efficiency in discharging their duties and maintaining high standards of probity.

Approach

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Introduction

In Indian culture, gender inclusion is rooted in the value system, promoting equal opportunities for all. Despite this cultural backdrop, the representation of women in public service remains disproportionately low. While the number of women in public service has increased, significant barriers still hinder their progress and effectiveness.

Body

Gender-Specific Challenges Faced by Female Public Servants:

• Workplace Discrimination: Women often encounter biases that question their competence and decision-making abilities. As per World Economic Forum, women hold only 28% of leadership roles in public administration globally, indicating significant underrepresentation.
• Work-Life Balance: Societal norms place a disproportionate burden of family responsibilities on women, making it challenging to balance professional duties with personal obligations.
• Safety Concerns and Harassment: Female public servants may face harassment in the workplace, creating an environment of fear and anxiety.  According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) in India, reported cases of workplace harassment increased by 60% from 2016 to 2019,
• Limited Support Networks: A lack of mentorship and networking opportunities for women in public service can hinder their professional growth, making it difficult to navigate organizational structures and advance in their careers.

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Measures to Increase Efficiency and Maintain High Standards of Probity:

• Diversity and Inclusion Training: Implementing training programs on diversity and inclusion can sensitize employees to gender biases, fostering an inclusive workplace culture that values all contributions equally.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible work options, such as remote work and adjustable hours, allows female public servants to better manage their personal and professional lives, enhancing their productivity and job satisfaction.
• Mentorship and Networking Programs: Establishing formal mentorship programs can connect women with experienced leaders, providing guidance and support that facilitates career advancement and skill development.
• Strict Anti-Harassment Policies: Enforcing robust anti-harassment policies like the POSH Act and creating safe reporting mechanisms can help protect women from harassment, ensuring a secure work environment that promotes focus and efficiency.

Regular Assessments of Workplace Culture: Conducting regular evaluations of workplace culture can help identify areas of concern related to gender equality, enabling organizations to implement necessary changes to enhance the work environment.

Conclusion

Addressing the gender-specific challenges faced by women in public service is vital for fostering an equitable work environment. By implementing supportive measures, organizations can empower female public servants to excel, thereby upholding high standards of probity and enhancing the overall integrity of public service.

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