Amazon India has launched a first-of-its-kind “women only” delivery station with the aim to “empower women and transform their lives” in a country still dominated by men, in recognition of the International Women’s day that takes place every year on 8 March.
The initiative has been kick-started in South India with Amazon’s first delivery station in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and the second one in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
“Through this initiative, Amazon has taken the lead to engage with women, create unique relevant job opportunities and enable them to be achievers in this field,” the e-commerce giant said in a statement.
These dedicated women delivery stations will be completely managed and run by women as Amazon’s service partners. At both stations, women will deliver parcels on two-wheelers, covering a radius of 2-3 km from the delivery station.
Amazon also plans to offer self-defense classes to women working at the stations for their safety alongside a dedicated helpline number created for them to dial in for any support or help needed during the day.
Samuel Thomas, Director, Transportation, Amazon India, shared his views on this initiative: “Our vision is to create opportunities for individuals to realise their potential and transform their lives. We are committed to use our resources and infrastructure of innovation and technology to support the women in our country to explore and succeed in what was otherwise a very male dominated sector. We are proud to have pioneered the women only delivery station which is a first-of-its-kind India-specific innovation from Amazon and look forward to help women across communities attain financial independence in life.”
Divya Syam, Manager at Amazon’s women delivery station, said: “I am glad that Amazon.in stepped into my life to provide me with the perfect opportunity to work as a service partner and set an example for many women in the country. With the increasing popularity of e-commerce platforms and with the support of my very hardworking and dedicated delivery associates, I am certain we will be able to overcome all hindrances and grow in this male-dominated business. I urge all women to get out of their comfort zone and explore the joys of entrepreneurship.”
