Breaking Barriers: Gender Inclusivity and AI Bias

Shreya Krishnan, Managing Director of AnitaB.org India, shares insights on the progress and challenges of gender inclusivity in the Indian tech industry and the pervasive impact of bias in AI systems.

- Minu Sirsalewala

In a candid conversation with Minu Sirsalewala, Executive Editor of Dataquest, Shreya Krishnan, Managing Director, AnitaB.org India, discusses the current landscape of gender inclusivity in India’s tech sector, highlighting both advancements and ongoing challenges. She delves into the persistent issue of gender bias in AI and machine learning, emphasizing the importance of diverse development teams and ethical AI practices. Krishnan also outlines the proactive steps AnitaB. org India is taking to promote diversity and equity, from mentorship programs to initiatives that address systemic barriers in the industry.

How do you perceive the current state of gender inclusivity in the Indian tech industry? Are there any significant changes or improvements you have observed over the past few years?

The Indian tech industry has made notable progress in gender inclusivity, but challenges persist. Over the past few years, there's been a significant increase in companies committed to diversity, with more organizations adopting gender-neutral policies, enhancing the representation of women in leadership roles, and creating inclusive work environments. Organizations are a lot more intentional about who they are hiring. There is a more organised focus on ensuring that there is diversity in the hiring process. Initiatives such as mentorship programs and women-focused networks have played a crucial role in empowering women and nonbinary individuals.

Despite these advancements, the gender gap remains, particularly in senior and technical roles. Most organisations fail when it comes to implementing inclusion as a cultural advantage. Cultural biases and societal norms continue to be significant barriers, highlighting the need for sustained and focused efforts to ensure that gender inclusivity is more than just a policy-it's a fundamental practice embedded within the industry.