In the late 1990s to early 2000s, when Pimpri-Chinchwad’s industrial landscape echoed with the clatter of machinery predominantly operated by men, a remarkable shift was underway. A group of women hailing from Yamuna Nagar and Rupeenagar areas seized the opportunity to challenge the norms, venturing into the male-dominated terrain of manufacturing spare parts for two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Backed by small-scale entrepreneurs providing crucial machinery and training, these women embarked on a journey that not only brought financial independence but also a profound sense of personal empowerment. Today, over fifty women from Yamuna Nagar and Rupeenagar stand as proud contributors to the city’s industrial production through their flourishing home-based industry.
Pimpri-Chinchwad’s Gender Dynamics: A Historical Perspective
Often dubbed as “Udyog Nagri” or Business City, Pimpri-Chinchwad has a historical backdrop dominated by male workers in its industrial sector. Families migrated from villages, lured by opportunities in the thriving industrial hub. Despite prevailing gender norms, some women within these families took the bold initiative to establish home businesses, defying the gender biases prevalent in the industrial landscape.
While the industrial sector continued to be largely male-centric, a select group of women persevered for 15 to 20 years, evolving into experts in the production of spare parts crucial for various products across the city. Their work not only offers financial independence but also serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and resilience.
Crafting a Niche: Women in Spare Parts Manufacturing
With the demand for small spare parts for two-wheelers and four-wheelers continuously on the rise, companies often outsource the manufacturing of these components to small-scale industries. Enterprising women from Yamuna Nagar and Rupeenagar have skillfully carved a niche for themselves in producing these vital components. Entrepreneurs play a pivotal role by providing training, machinery, and raw materials, enabling even those with a 10th-grade education to excel in this skilled work.
Kunda Dundale, a resident of Yamuna Nagar, shared her journey: “I am a housewife. After taking care of the house, I was looking for work with my friends to do something for myself. After learning about making spare parts for cars, I started doing this work. We all work together, so confidence is growing.”
Matsyagandha Kale from Rupeenagar emphasized the flexibility of the work, stating, “There is no time limit in this work. There is an equation that equals the amount of work. So we work as much time as we get from housework. Ten other people work with me to make these spare parts. Due to this, the family is having financial contributions.”
Omkar Sohoni, a small entrepreneur committed to empowering women, remarked, “We have been doing business related to industrial products for many years. Ever since we started this business, we have been inclined to provide work to needy women. They are also given training for this from time to time. By standing on their own feet, the financial status of these women is improving.”
Conclusion: Navigating Waves of Change
In the heart of Pimpri-Chinchwad’s industrial hustle, these women entrepreneurs are not just crafting spare parts; they are shaping a narrative of empowerment and resilience. The clang of machinery now echoes with the determined spirit of those who have defied stereotypes, proving that gender should never be a barrier to pursuing entrepreneurial dreams.
