8 OCTOBER2024An advisory circular titled "Gender Equality in the Civil Aviation Sector" has been issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) that aims to increase the representation of women in the aviation sector to 25 per cent by 2025. It further advises stakeholders to address and remove the stereotypes and gender bias present in the industry promoting a better work-life balance for women employees.The DGCA's advisory circular aligns with the motive of the Indian Constitution and the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) vision to foster gender equality and work-life balance. The advisory recommends that airlines and airports implement strategic measures to uplift women's representation through training programs for cabin crew, leadership skills, and guidance for women.India's aviation industry has 5-14 per cent of women, with 14 per cent on average in pilot roles, according to a report. However, the International Air Transport Association aims to adopt best global practices promoting women's representation with their initiative, `25by2025'.According to reports, the DGCA has recommended a zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment, diversity objectives, and HR policies. It also suggested diversifying women's work profiles, promoting women role models, implementing maternity leave laws, hiring back women after a career break, and conducting training programs. Analyzing exit interviews and organizing awareness-raising programs to reduce gender bias was also suggested. MAICCI HEAD, HEMALA SUGGESTS GREEN FINANCING FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN MALAYSIAN BUDGET 2025IN FOCUSIN FOCUSThe Women's Wing of the Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) suggested crucial initiatives in order to empower Indian women entrepreneurs in the upcoming Budget 2025. The list of key suggestions comprises the introduction of Green Financing Options that focus on sustainable and environment-friendly projects. Green Financing will offer financial support to women entrepreneurs who venture into eco-friendly projects such as sustainable supply chains and waste management systems, MAICCI further suggested offering subsidies for trade fairs and mentorship on exporting to women entrepreneurs.MAICCI Head, Hemala shared her key suggestion for Budget 2025 and mentioned, "We need support to integrate eco-friendly practices into business. Green financing could be a key enabler." She added, "This type of financing is essential as it aligns economic growth with environmental conservation and long-term sustainability goals."Hemala stated that Green Financing is a more economical process to offer funds, incentives, and grants in order to improve eco-friendly practices in supply chain and waste management projects. She said that women entrepreneurs need digital skill training to adapt online marketplace efficiently for their businesses to flourish. In addition to this, the establishment of incubation centers, and affordable childcare support for women entrepreneurs should be prioritized where they can receive mentorship and networking opportunities along with balancing their personal and professional lives. DGCA ISSUES ADVISORY CIRCULAR ON BOOSTING WOMEN'S REPRESENTATION IN AVIATION
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