At the World Economic Forum (WEF) held in Davos, former Union Minister Smriti Irani engaged in a conversation with NDTV about various issues, focusing particularly on the importance of viewing productivity from a health perspective. She highlighted a key concern — the world has long discussed productivity through the lens of skill sets, but has largely ignored how health plays a pivotal role in it. As the chief of the Alliance for Global Good-Gender Equity and Equality (AGG-GEE), launched in 2024, Irani emphasized that this health-centric view could revolutionize how we approach productivity, especially for women.
One of the dominant themes of WEF each year is inclusion, a subject that has grown more complex with the inclusion of diverse perspectives, particularly from women. Irani stressed that when the global conversation about inclusion arises, it should not only center around diversity but also the essential role that women play in shaping economies and societies. She pointed out that India’s narrative about inclusion and women’s contribution is no longer just about the nation’s demographic challenges. Instead, India should be seen as a leader in driving global change on topics like inclusion, climate change, and health innovations.
Irani made it clear that while India has made strides in addressing these issues within its borders, it is now time to take these learnings to the global stage. She emphasized that India is sharing its experiences and solutions at international platforms like the United Nations and the World Bank, collaborating with the World Health Organization (WHO) and industry leaders to ensure that women-owned businesses and health innovations receive the funding and attention they need. Irani passionately argued that these efforts were not just about improving conditions for women within India but ensuring that the solutions could benefit the world at large.
A key part of the conversation focused on the economic power of women. Irani pointed out that women currently control a third of the world’s wealth, and this figure is expected to rise to 50% in the next five years. Yet, this massive economic contribution is often overlooked in discussions about women’s empowerment. Instead, discussions tend to focus on philanthropic issues, such as domestic violence. Irani argued that real empowerment comes from improving women’s capital capacity, which leads to safer environments both at home and at work. She stressed that these financial realities are a vital part of the inclusion agenda and that investment in women’s businesses and health-related innovations must be prioritized.
Smriti Irani also addressed a pressing concern at the heart of the WEF’s conversation — the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation on the workforce, especially women. AI and automation are expected to disrupt many industries, and Irani warned that women, particularly those in entry-level jobs, would be disproportionately affected by job losses. She questioned the readiness of policymakers and companies to address the displacement of talent, particularly in low-income economies, where the internet penetration is still limited.
The conversation around AI at Davos focused primarily on the next level of AI engagement. While generative AI, which produces content like music or art based on a prompt, has been in the spotlight, Irani highlighted the rise of AI agents. These agents, which combine various aspects of AI technology, are set to become a key part of the workforce in the near future. However, Irani warned that their arrival could exacerbate the displacement of talent, particularly in countries that are still developing economically. This issue of job displacement will no longer be seen as just a “female problem”; it will become a widespread concern for economies globally, especially those in low-income regions that have yet to achieve a high per capita income.
In discussing the link between health and productivity, Irani underscored the importance of investing in health innovations, particularly those aimed at women. Citing data that shows every dollar invested in maternal health yields a $30 return due to increased productivity and reduced mortality, Irani warned that global economies could lose trillions of dollars if they fail to address the health challenges that limit women’s productivity. She argued that this conversation about the impact of health on productivity has largely been ignored, and it is time for it to be addressed.
Irani’s work in championing women’s health and gender equality has been a cornerstone of her political career. She expressed a deep concern that the conversation around productivity tends to focus solely on skill development, leaving health innovations out of the equation. Irani’s goal, she explained, is to keep a clear focus on the need for greater investment in health innovations for women. She believes that improving women’s health not only leads to better productivity but also directly contributes to the economic well-being of nations.
The conversation surrounding productivity at Davos underscores the importance of a more comprehensive approach, one that integrates health as a crucial factor. Irani’s comments reflect a growing understanding that productivity is not just about how skilled workers are but also about their overall well-being. As women continue to play a critical role in the global economy, their health must be prioritized to ensure their ability to contribute effectively.
The WEF’s discussions around AI, gender equality, and women’s health innovation show a shifting perspective on how we think about productivity. Smriti Irani’s remarks serve as a wake-up call to policymakers, businesses, and global leaders that a holistic approach to productivity — one that includes health as a key component — is not only necessary but imperative for sustainable growth. As the world grapples with the challenges of AI, automation, and economic disruption, it is clear that taking care of women’s health and empowering them economically is a step toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
In conclusion, the shift toward viewing productivity through a health lens is a crucial move toward ensuring the well-being of the workforce, especially women. Smriti Irani’s insights at Davos highlight the need for more investment in health innovations for women, arguing that it will yield long-term economic benefits. The intersection of health, productivity, and gender equality must be central to global conversations if we are to create a future where women are not only equal participants but leaders in the global narrative.
