Kerala is scaling up a programme aimed at helping 10,000 women who have taken career breaks re-enter the workforce through skills training, employment opportunities and returnship programmes.
The initiative brings together the state government, employers and voluntary organisations to support women seeking to restart or advance their careers.
State Labour Minister Bindu Krishna said the government would adopt a multi-pronged approach to help women overcome barriers associated with returning to employment after an extended break.
Programme expands beyond pilot phase
The 10,000 Women Back to Career initiative was launched as a pilot in 2024 under the leadership of Women Inclusive in Technology (WIIT). Following the pilot, the programme is now being expanded to reach a larger number of women across the state.
The initiative will identify women who have stepped away from employment and provide support to help them prepare for a return to the job market.
The support is expected to include:
- Skills and professional upskilling
- Career-readiness programmes
- Employment opportunities
- Returnship programmes
- Connections with potential employers
- Guidance based on individual career goals
The programme is designed to address some of the challenges women can face when attempting to reconnect with the employment market after a prolonged career interruption.
ReIgnite Portal launched
A new digital platform, the ReIgnite Portal, has been launched as part of the initiative.
Women participating in the programme can use the platform to provide information about their educational background, previous work experience, skills, interests and career objectives.
The information will help connect participants with relevant training programmes and potential employment opportunities.
By creating a central platform for career information and opportunities, the programme aims to make it easier for women to identify suitable pathways back into employment.
Focus on workplace support
The initiative also highlights the importance of workplace conditions in helping women not only return to employment but also remain in the workforce.
Minister Bindu Krishna emphasised the need for effective implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) law to support safe working environments.
The programme also draws attention to workplace childcare and day-care facilities, particularly for women returning to employment after maternity leave.
Government and employers to work together
The Kerala government has said sustained cooperation between employers, government agencies and voluntary organisations will be important to the programme’s success.
By combining skills development, career preparation and direct connections with employers, the initiative aims to create more pathways for women seeking to resume their professional careers.
The expanded programme comes as Kerala seeks to strengthen women’s participation in the workforce and address employment barriers associated with career interruptions.
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