Towards a Just Transition: Exploring the Role of Education and Existing Inequalities in the Untapped Potential of the Non-formal and Informal Sector

Radhika Iyengar,  Matthew A. Witenstein, Vinayak Sinha, and Vidya Bindal | pp. 95-111

Abstract:
This article explores the intersection of gender and employment for a Just Transition in the Indian context. We use the concept of a “just transition” (which aims to attain carbon neutrality while not inhibiting the lives of those in the margins, economically and socially) to guide this article because it meaningfully aims to support marginalised populations in concert with greening the economy. The paper presents a macro-view of employment indicators and the rise of the informal sector which is predominantly composed of women. The paper discusses the barriers to formal employment in India as presented by feminist literature. The paper deep-dives into local voices with Mahashakti Seva Kendra, a non-profit organisation focused on upskilling and green-skilling women in Bhopal, India. Mahashakti women and students, who tend to come from marginalised sections of society, shared their insights on upskilling, decision-making both professionally and personally, how they chose to join the programme, and the psychosocial dimensions of their lives and potential livelihoods. To achieve a socially-just goal, marginalised communities deserve to be elevated in research, policy, and practice discussions with clear pathways developed for their success and inclusion. Recommendations link potentialities to move beyond informal sector jobs for a Just Transition.

Keywords: Just Transition, women, India, informal sector, green jobs, green-skilling