Gender Equity
Empowering women artisans through fair wages, leadership, and resources.
Objective
To highlight and address the challenges faced by women artisans in Kashmir’s handicraft sector and to advocate for initiatives that promote economic and social equity.
Context
Women are the backbone of Kashmir’s handicraft sector, contributing skill, dedication, and a unique perspective to the crafts that bring Kashmir global recognition. However, they often face significant barriers, including wage disparity, limited visibility, and lack of leadership opportunities.
The Narrative
Policy Proposals
Key legislative actions and their rationale
Equal Pay Legislation
Mandate fair wages for women artisans comparable to their male counterparts to close the gender pay gap.
Economic Justice
Eliminates discriminatory wage gaps.
Poverty Reduction
Increases household income and financial independence.
Workforce Retention
Encourages skilled women to remain in the sector.
Legislative Ask
Enact strict equal pay legislation and establishment of wage monitoring bodies.
Legal Protections & Benefits
Ensure fundamental rights and social security for women artisans including maternity benefits and workplace safety.
Workplace Safety
Protection from harassment and exploitation.
Social Security
Access to maternity leave and health benefits.
Grievance Redressal
Mechanisms to report and resolve discrimination.
Legislative Ask
Mandate comprehensive legal protections and social benefits for women in the craft sector.
Women's Craft Councils
Establish formal bodies to represent women artisans in policy decisions and leadership within the sector.
Representation
Ensures women's voices are heard in government.
Policy Focus
Directs policy towards issues affecting women.
Community Leadership
Builds a pipeline of female leaders in the sector.
Legislative Ask
Mandate minimum female representation in all state handicraft boards.
Strategic Implementation
Fair Wage Advocacy
Standardize wage structures and promote financial literacy among women artisans for economic independence.
- StandardizationDeveloping wage benchmarks based on skill and effort.
- Financial InclusionProviding access to savings accounts and micro-loans.
- Literacy WorkshopsTraining on financial management and negotiation.
Action Steps
- Publish wage standard guidelines
- Partner with banks for micro-loans
- Conduct financial literacy camps
Leadership Development
Equip women with skills to take on decision-making roles in cooperatives and community organizations.
- Training ProgramsWorkshops on public speaking and management.
- MentorshipConnecting emerging leaders with experienced artisans.
- Cooperative LeadershipPromoting women in cooperative governance.
Action Steps
- Launch leadership academy
- Establish mentorship network
- Support women-led cooperatives
Childcare Support Systems
Create support structures to help women balance work and family responsibilities effectively and sustainably.
- Crèches in ClustersSafe childcare facilities in major artisan centers.
- Flexible HoursPromoting work models that suit family needs.
- Maternal HealthHealth camps focusing on women's well-being.
Action Steps
- Pilot crèches in two large clusters.
- Advocate for flexi-work policies in cooperatives.
Expected Outcomes
Economic Empowerment
Women artisans achieve financial independence and security.
Income Growth
Higher and fairer earnings.
Family Well-being
Increased investment in education and health.
Sector Vitality
A more diverse and innovative handicraft industry.
Innovation
New designs and perspectives from empowered women.
Sustainability
Stronger community support for craft traditions.
Leadership Parity
Women hold proportional representation in leadership roles.
Decision Making
Policies reflect the needs of the entire workforce.
Role Models
Inspiring the next generation of female artisans.
Gender equity is essential for the growth and sustainability of Kashmir's handicraft sector. HCRF's advocacy offers a blueprint for a future where women's contributions are valued and their potential fully realized.