2022, Vol. 4, Issue 1, Part B

author(s)
Surender Kumar

abstract
Gender diversity in leadership has become an important global issue, especially in developing economies like India. Although women’s participation in education and the workforce has improved in recent years, their representation in leadership and decision-making positions remains limited. This study aims to analyze the gender gap in leadership positions in selected Indian organizations over a ten-year period from 2012 to 2020 by using secondary data only. The study is analytical in nature and is based on data collected from company annual reports, diversity reports, government publications and reputed research databases. Simple statistical tools such as percentages, averages and trend analysis have been used for interpretation. Findings of the study reveal that although there has been a gradual increase in the number of women in leadership roles during the study period, the overall representation of women in top management remains significantly lower than that of men. Cultural barriers, lack of mentorship and gender bias in promotion practices continue to remain major challenges. The study suggests that organizations must adopt inclusive HR policies, strengthen diversity training, and create equal growth opportunities for women to reduce the leadership gender gap. The research contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the extent and trend of gender inequality in leadership positions in Indian organizations. It also provides practical recommendations for policymakers and corporate leaders to promote gender diversity at the top management level.