WOMEN IN THE CORPORATE WORLD: ANALYSING THE IMPACT OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2013 ON GENDER REPRESENTATION
AUTHOR – DR. SONY RAJ S. S* & ASWIN.S**
* M.A.L.L.M, PH.D, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, M.K.E.S. COLLEGE OF LAW, MUMBAI
** M.A,L.L.M, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, MKES NAGINDAS KHANDWALA COLLEGE, MUMBAI
BEST CITATION – DR. SONY RAJ S. S & ASWIN.S, WOMEN IN THE CORPORATE WORLD: ANALYSING THE IMPACT OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2013 ON GENDER REPRESENTATION, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (3) OF 2025, PG. 81-86, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.
THIS ARTICLE IS PUBLISHED IN THE COLLABORATED SPECIAL ISSUE OF M.K.E.S. COLLEGE OF LAW AND THE INSTITUTE OF LEGAL EDUCATION (ILE), TITLED “WOMEN’S RIGHTS AND LEGAL REFORMS” (ISBN: 978-81-968842-4-6). .
Abstract
“When women thrive, businesses thrive.” – Ban Ki-moon (Diplomat -South Korea)
Gender diversity in corporate leadership has gained significant attention worldwide, and India’s Companies Act, 2013 has played a pivotal role in advancing women’s representation in boardrooms. By mandating the inclusion of at least one woman director in certain categories of companies, the legislation aims to bridge the gender gap and promote inclusivity in corporate governance. This paper critically examines the impact of the Companies Act, 2013 on gender representation in the corporate sector, assessing its effectiveness in fostering leadership opportunities for women. It explores key challenges, including tokenism, compliance gaps, and societal barriers that continue to hinder progress. Additionally, the study highlights the broader implications of gender diversity on corporate performance, decision-making, and ethical governance. While the Act marks a progressive step, its real impact depends on sustained enforcement, corporate willingness, and cultural shifts within organisations. The paper concludes with recommendations to strengthen gender inclusivity, ensuring that the presence of women in leadership transcends mere compliance and contributes meaningfully to corporate growth and governance.
Keywords: Gender Diversity, Companies Act 2013, Women Directors, Corporate Governance, Boardroom Representation, Leadership Inclusion