Context: As many as 85 per cent women missed out on a raise, promotion or work offer because of their gender in India, according to Linkedin Opportunity Index 2021. The average for this gender bias in the Asia-Pacific (ACPC) region was 60 per cent.

• The 2021 Opportunity Index highlights the difference in perception of available opportunities in the market for men and women in India.
• The 2021 survey had more than 10,000 respondents across the Asia Pacific region, from Australia, China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, and Singapore.

Key Highlights

• As per the index, the Covid-19 pandemic has hit the working women in India the most as compared to working women in other countries.
• The index maintains that, working women in India continue to battle strongest gender bias with respect to equal pay and opportunity across the Asia Pacific countries.
• As per the report; about one in five women, which accounts for 22% of the working women in India, is unhappy with the opportunities to advance in their career. These women said that, their companies are favourably biased towards men.
• Further, 85% of working women claim that they have missed out on raise, promotion, or work offer in India. While in Asia-Pacific region this figure stands at 60%.
• The report also highlights that, 37% of working women in India get fewer opportunities than men.
• Further, 37% of the women are paid less than men.
• LinkedIn’s findings further states that, women now seek the employers who treat them as equal. On the other hand, 56% of the women look for recognition at work for their work. Other women wants that they get work as per their skills.

Challenges faced by Women mentioned under Opportunity Index 2021

• The gender inequality at work and added domestic responsibilities amid the pandemic has collectively made women's jobs more vulnerable.
• The lack of time is the topmost barrier for working women.

What hinders the career development?

• In India, lack of required professional skills and lack of guidance through networks & connections are the barriers that hinders the career development for working women. 
• Because of these barriers, the women are of the view that organisations should step up in order to provide maternity policies and other flexibility & developmental programmes. 
• The women are also appreciating the telecommuting and work-from-home.

Recommendations of Opportunity Index 2021

• It is the need of the hour for organisations to reimagine their diversity practices and offer greater flexibility to caregivers.
• The reduced and flexible schedules, more sabbaticals, and new opportunities to upskill and learn are critical offerings that can help organisations attract, hire, and retain more female talent.