In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting inclusivity and empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the workforce, Amazon India has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with five Indian State Governments. These states include Haryana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, with the common goal of fostering skill development and employment opportunities for PwDs. The partnership, set to extend until 2026, aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, emphasizing self-reliance and inclusive development.
Empowering PwDs Through Skill Development
The core objective of these MoUs is to provide skill training and employment prospects for PwD candidates residing in the aforementioned states. Amazon India is committed to offering comprehensive support, including on-the-job training, interventions, and the creation of an inclusive work environment. This initiative will cover various roles within Amazon's Operations Network, encompassing activities such as stowing, picking, packing, sorting, and more.
Amazon's Commitment to Inclusion
Liju Thomas, Director – People Experience and Technology (PXT) at Amazon India, emphasized the company's dedication to fostering a culture of equal opportunity and growth. Over the next three years, Amazon India aims to focus on skill development and livelihood enhancement for PwDs across its Operations network. Thomas expressed gratitude to the governments of Haryana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu for their unwavering support. This initiative complements existing programs aimed at increasing employment opportunities for under-represented cohorts.
Empowering PwDs in Amazon's Operations Network
Within Amazon India's Operations network, numerous individuals with Hearing and Speech Impairments already play vital roles. The company is steadfast in its commitment to creating an environment conducive to their success.
Infrastructure Accommodations for Inclusivity
Amazon India has introduced several infrastructure accommodations to support associates with hearing and speech impairments. One noteworthy initiative is 'SignAble,' a virtual and interactive interpreter platform that facilitates real-time communication between associates with hearing and speech impairments and their colleagues. This tool has significantly improved collaboration and morale, enabling seamless troubleshooting and effective interaction. Additionally, Amazon India has implemented workplace safety initiatives, including customized safety orientation, interpreters, "buddies" for associates across shifts, a token system to track associate movements, and whistle/strobe light and paging systems for emergency communication.
Silent Delivery Stations and Beyond
Amazon India's commitment to inclusion goes beyond mere rhetoric. In January 2017, the company pioneered the concept of 'Silent Delivery Stations' through its Delivery Service Partner program in Mumbai. These stations are managed entirely by individuals with speech and hearing impairments, breaking down barriers to employment. Furthermore, Amazon's initiatives to create opportunities for those with hearing impairments in its operations sites have expanded significantly. Starting as a pilot project in 2017 with a small group of associates, this initiative trained them in packing shipments at Amazon fulfilment centers. Today, this program has blossomed across Amazon's operations network nationwide, providing financial independence and helping individuals realize their true potential.
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