Bengaluru has clinched the title of India’s leading city for working women, as revealed by the Top Cities for Women in India (TCWI) 2024 report by Avtar. The city achieved a City Inclusion Score (CIS) of 47.15, narrowly outperforming Chennai, which scored 46.31. Bengaluru excels in areas like safety, adaptability, and inclusiveness, thanks to its thriving tech industry that promotes flexible working arrangements and supports women’s mental health.

However, despite the progress, experts highlight several ongoing obstacles. Issues such as inadequate affordable housing near workplaces, unsafe commuting options, and persistent workplace harassment need urgent attention. Women in Bengaluru, especially in the garment sector, continue to face exploitation and lack sufficient support.

The city’s expanding job market and inclusive company policies, such as extended maternity leave and flexible hours, have contributed to this rise. Yet, experts agree that true inclusivity remains a distant goal. Safety and support for women still need to be prioritized in many areas.

With the government aiming to enhance urban planning to benefit women, Bengaluru’s top position is just a beginning. There is still a long way to go before every woman in the workforce can enjoy the opportunities and safety she deserves.