Background
Sri City, an integrated business hub in Andhra Pradesh, lies 75 km north of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It uniquely functions as a special economic zone (SEZ), a domestic tariff zone (DTZ), and a free trade warehousing zone (FTWZ), hosting over 200 companies from 28 countries. This diversity includes clusters for food processing, automotive, engineering, textiles, and electronics industries, along with educational institutions like Krea University and the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT). SEZs are often seen as engines of economic empowerment for women due to plentiful job opportunities. However, the actual experiences of women in these workplaces can vary significantly depending on location, context, and job nature, necessitating further investigation.
The primary objective of this study is to understand women’s working conditions in Sri City and their impact on empowerment and well-being. Specific objectives include:
- Exploring the nature of employment across various industry sectors and its association with decent pay, safe working conditions, and social protection.
- Understanding the experiences of sexual harassment, abuse, and exploitation women face in the workplace.
- Assessing how changes in employment opportunities since Sri City’s foundation have impacted women’s empowerment and well-being.
Methodology
The study utilized a structured interview technique and a mixed-methods approach to assess various aspects of women’s work experiences in Sri City. The quantitative survey focused on the nature of work, workplace conditions, and practices of respectful workplaces, involving data collection from 434 women aged 18-49. Of these, 76% were from Andhra Pradesh and 24% from Tamil Nadu, working in companies or social institutions based in Sri City. Andhra Pradesh respondents resided within Sri City, while Tamil Nadu respondents commuted from farther away.
The qualitative component comprised semi-structured interviews with 40 individuals (20 men and 20 women), requiring both spouses in each household to work in Sri City. These interviews aimed to provide deeper insights into the impact of SEZ employment on personal and social dynamics, including aspects of negotiation, relationships, aspirations, and leisure. Men were also interviewed to compare gender perspectives on fixed-income jobs and their broader societal implications.
Implications
This project reveals the multifaceted experiences of women in Sri City’s SEZ, highlighting the need for targeted policy interventions to improve working conditions, ensure safety, and promote empowerment. By addressing these critical areas, stakeholders can create more inclusive and supportive environments for women in SEZs, contributing to their overall well-being and economic participation.
Key Findings
Results forthcoming.