The Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC) and Hero MotoCorp have collaborated to launch an initiative to train 20,000 women in automotive sales and service positions over the next 15 months. This effort aims to increase diversity in India’s automotive industry, which is currently dominated by men. The program will focus on eight key roles, including two-wheeler service technicians, electric vehicle service personnel, and automotive sales consultants, and will be implemented across multiple locations.
This initiative builds on Hero MotoCorp’s existing corporate social responsibility program, “Hero WeCare,” which has already trained over 4,000 women through its Hero Saksham program. The company is committed to increasing workplace diversity and has been working to achieve this goal. The automotive industry in India faces a skills gap and a gender imbalance, with women making up less than 15% of the workforce. This initiative aims to address both challenges by providing technical training and creating employment opportunities for women.
The automotive industry is a significant contributor to India’s economy, employing over 19 million people directly and indirectly and contributing 7.1% to the country’s GDP. The sector is undergoing significant changes with the introduction of electric vehicles and new technologies, creating a demand for skilled workers. The ASDC, established in 2010, is a sector skill council that focuses on developing skilled manpower for the automotive industry, working with industry partners to create training programs aligned with current market needs and technological advancements. This initiative is a positive step towards increasing diversity and skills in the automotive sector.