In recent years, the emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has grown across industries. Companies now realise the importance of fostering an inclusive work environment. DEI at Nestle India is a prime example of how DEI efforts can create a significant change in an organisation.
At Nestle India, DEI is a core principle that has shaped their approach to creating a safe and happy workplace. From gender balance to supporting employees with disabilities, Nestle India’s commitment to DEI extends beyond just policies and targets. It is woven into their everyday practices. Nestle India aims to provide equal opportunities for everyone. Through various initiatives, Nestle India has demonstrated how DEI can drive innovation. Moreover, it also shows how to enrich corporate culture and empower employees across all levels.
DEI at Nestle India: A core principle for success
Nestle India’s dedication to DEI is evident in the structure of its workplace policies. They actively promote gender balance, generational diversity, disability inclusion, and support for the LGBTQIA+ community. These four pillars of inclusion form the backbone of Nestle’s DEI strategy. This strategy helps them create an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best selves at work.
One of the key aspects of DEI at Nestle India is its focus on fostering gender balance. They have implemented a Gender Acceleration Plan that aims to promote women in leadership roles. The plan also supports managers in building inclusive teams and ensuring equal pay for equal work. Nestle India is also committed to supporting new mothers and fathers with progressive maternity and paternity leave policies. These policies include breastfeeding rooms and flexible work arrangements.
Gender balance and empowering women: A pillar of DEI at Nestle India
Nestle India’s focus on gender balance extends beyond recruitment. They have launched various initiatives to promote gender inclusivity across the organisation and within their supply chain. One notable initiative is the Village Women Dairy Development Programme. The program trains women dairy farmers on sustainable practices and personal health. This program empowers women in rural areas by giving them the skills they need to improve the quality and productivity of milk. It contributes to the overall success of Nestle’s supply chain.
In the corporate environment, Nestle India has introduced programs such as Project Harmony. This program provides career development opportunities for women, as well as the Attract—Retain—Develop framework. This framework helps attract diverse talent, retain them by providing an inclusive culture, and develop them into future leaders.
By making gender balance a top priority, Nestle India is paving the way for other industries to follow suit. Nestle recognises that a gender-balanced workforce brings diverse perspectives, fosters innovation, and strengthens the company’s culture.
Inclusive hiring practices and support for Persons with Disabilities (PwD)
Nestle India has taken active steps to ensure that people with disabilities are fully integrated into their workforce. They have committed to the ILO Global Business and Disability Network and signed The Valuable 500. It reinforces their commitment to providing equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Inclusion at Nestle India means that people with disabilities are not only hired but also get the tools, accessibility, and support they need to succeed. They are committed to raising awareness about disability inclusion within the organisation and addressing unconscious biases that might exist among employees. By doing so, they create a truly inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
DEI at Nestle India: Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need for greater inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community in the workplace. Nestle India is proud to support the United Nations Free & Equal Standards of Conduct for Business, which advocates for tackling discrimination against LGBT+ people.
By promoting a culture of understanding and acceptance, Nestle India ensures that employees feel safe and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This commitment to LGBT+ inclusion is not just about meeting diversity targets; it is about fostering a supportive environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination.
Learning from Nestle India: What other industries can adopt
Other companies can learn several lessons from Nestle India’s DEI practices. First, inclusivity must go beyond recruitment quotas. Nestle’s approach shows that companies must integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into everyday practices. Companies must also back DEI practices with strong policies. For example, their Nestlé Needs Youth and Nesternship programs foster intergenerational mentorship, promoting knowledge sharing and inclusivity across age groups.
Another key lesson is the importance of leadership in driving DEI efforts. At Nestle India, DEI is championed from the top, with senior leaders reviewing gender balance results and making necessary adjustments to ensure progress. They also regularly assess policies related to diversity and inclusion to make sure they align with the evolving needs of their workforce.
Other industries can adopt similar frameworks that encourage continuous improvement in their DEI efforts. It’s not enough to introduce policies; companies must constantly evaluate and update them to meet the changing dynamics of the workplace.
Conclusion: Nestle India’s is a model for creating a safer, happier workplace
Nestle India’s DEI model shows how to build a truly inclusive and safe work environment. Their commitment to gender balance, disability inclusion, generational diversity, and LGBT+ support goes beyond the surface. By actively listening to their employees and making meaningful changes to their policies, Nestle is ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.
At Changeincontent.com, we advocate for inclusive work environments where everyone’s contributions are valued. Nestle India’s DEI initiatives are a reminder that inclusivity is not just a goal but a continuous journey. By fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, Nestle is enriching its corporate culture and setting a standard for others to follow. It is time for industries to take note and adopt similar practices to create workplaces where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the writer’s insights, supported by data and resources available both online and offline, as applicable. Changeincontent.com is committed to promoting inclusivity across all forms of content, which we define broadly to include media, policies, law, and history—encompassing all elements that influence the lives of women and gender-queer individuals. Our goal is to promote understanding and advocate for comprehensive inclusivity.
