Chennai, Feb 28 (UNI) The Tamil Nadu Government launched the Multistakeholder
Textile Industry Coalition (TiC) to strengthen Implementation of PoSH Act--a collective
effort to enhance Workplace Safety in the Textile Sector.
The objective of TiC is also to strengthen the implementation of the Prevention of
Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act.
A collective effort to enhance workplace safety in the Textile Sector, TiC brings
together various actors, such as brands, manufacturers, government agencies,
service providers, industry associations, trade unions, civil society organizations,
and research institutions, to work towards a common goal of creating a safe and
empowering work environment for women in the textile industry by promoting
promote Zero Tolerance for Sexual Harassment and Violence in the women-
dominated textile sector of Tamil Nadu.
TiC will also work towards creating industry-standardized guidelines and codes of
conduct to promote best practices and accountability.
TiC will cover all aspects of
the textile value chain, from the factory floor to the community and the policy
level. The coalition is led by the Department of Social Welfare and Women’s
Empowerment, Tamil Nadu, and the Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts,
Textiles and Khadi, Tamil Nadu. It is convened by UN Women with diverse
stakeholders.
Speaking at the launch of TiC, Ms V. Amuthavalli, Commissioner of the
Commissionerate of Social Welfare said This initiative aligns with the Tamil Nadu
Government’s mandate.
She said government is
rolling out a new app for quarterly filing of reports. These measures demonstrate
the commitment of Tamil Nadu state towards creating a safer and more inclusive
work environment for women.
Tamil Nadu has taken significant steps and efforts
in implementing PoSH. The state currently has 5,493 Internal Complaints
Committees (ICCs) in government organizations and 10,946 ICCs in private
establishments,”
Mr Dharmendra Pratap Yadav, Principal Secretary, Department of Textile,
said "The launch of TiC, is a reflection of our commitment
to the welfare and dignity of the women workers in the textile sector. We believe
that by eliminating violence and sexual harassment, we can enhance the
productivity and competitiveness of the industry, as well as the socio-economic
development of the state.”
“This is a groundbreaking initiative that sets an example for other industries to
follow. We are not only addressing a critical issue, but also creating a culture of
respect, equality, and empowerment for all women in the workforce. This is a
collective effort to bring about positive change and build a safer, more inclusive
industry where everyone can flourish without fear", he said.
"I congratulate the Government of Tamil Nadu on this innovative and holistic approach
to addressing gender-based violence” stated Susan Ferguson, Country Representative,
UN Women India, at the launch.
UNI GV 0745