CHALLENGES FACED BY WOMEN PROFESSIONALS WORKING FROM HOME, IN RANCHI, JHARKHAND DURING THE COVID‐19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

The present study explores work from home (WFH) experiences among the women professionals in Ranchi, Jharkhand, India during the lockdown. It is a thematic analysis. 15 women professionals from varied sectors were randomly selected for semi-structured interviews.

The analysis divulged the top remote work challenges related to the respondents’ role conflict and disturbed family time. Technical glitches and knowledge deficiency were second most-cited challenges. Focusing on professional and domestic activities at the same time, was the third highest cause of distraction among the respondents. The respondents also shared positive things about WFH. They felt relieved because of the workplace flexibility that the setting provided. They were more in control and comfortable. When asked about a chance to permanently move towards the WFH setup, some had serious concerns about how their career growth. The question received mixed reponses.

Keywords: Pandemic, Work from home, Ranchi, Jharkhand, Working women, Covid-19, WFH