Volume : 11, Issue : 12, DEC 2025

GENDER INEQUALITY IN CORPORATE INDIA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF IT AND BANKING SECTORS

VITHIKA GEHLOT, DR VANDANA YADAV

Abstract

Gender inequality remains a critical issue in corporate India, particularly within the IT and banking sectors, which are vital to the nation’s economic progress. This article investigates disparities in pay, leadership representation, work-life balance, and systemic barriers that hinder women’s advancement. Drawing on recent studies, it reveals that the IT sector, despite its global outlook and flexible work arrangements, struggles with a glass ceiling, with women occupying approximately 30-35% of mid-level roles and less than 20% of executive positions. The banking sector, influenced by regulatory mandates, shows marginally better female participation at entry levels but faces challenges in promotions due to entrenched biases and hierarchical structures. Shared issues include societal stereotypes, limited mentorship opportunities, and inadequate support for maternity, intensified by post-pandemic shifts to hybrid work models that disproportionately affect women. For example, IT sees higher female attrition post-maternity, while banking’s biased performance evaluations restrict upward mobility. The study also explores how technological advancements and foreign investments could mitigate these gaps, provided they are paired with deliberate interventions like diversity training and inclusive policies. Key findings suggest that closing the gender gap could enhance India’s GDP by up to 27%, emphasizing the economic imperative for change. This article discusses systemic challenges and offers practical recommendations, advocating for collaborative efforts across corporations, government, and society to foster gender equity. Ultimately, achieving parity in these sectors is not only a moral necessity but also a strategic move for sustainable economic growth in India.

Keywords

GENDER INEQUALITY, CORPORATE INDIA, IT SECTOR, BANKING SECTOR, GLASS CEILING, WORK-LIFE BALANCE, LEADERSHIP REPRESENTATION.

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IESRJ

International Educational Scientific Research Journal

E-ISSN: 2455-295X

International Indexed Journal | Multi-Disciplinary Refereed Research Journal

ISSN: 2455-295X

Peer-Reviewed Journal - Equivalent to UGC Approved Journal

Peer-Reviewed Journal

Article No : 21

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