- Ahead of International Women’s Day, Rajkot-based snack major celebrates 1,400+ women powering its growth
- From mothers and daughters working together to financial independence and career pride
- Kariyavar wedding bonus scheme adds dignity and support to life’s most important milestone
NE FEATURES BUREAU
RAJKOT, MAR 7
As the world marks the International Women’s Day on March 8, Gopal Snacks in Rajkot offers a compelling example of how empowering women at the workplace can transform not only businesses but entire communities.
For the company, gender inclusion is not just a symbolic gesture tied to the global celebration. It is a deeply embedded philosophy that recognises women’s financial independence and equal opportunities as pillars of a strong society.
Today, more than 1,400 women are part of the Gopal Snacks workforce, contributing across various operations of the company. Over the past three to five years, the organisation has recorded an approximately 25% increase in women hiring, reflecting a conscious push towards diversity through inclusive policies and skill-based recruitment.
A Workplace That Feels Like Family
Beyond numbers and statistics, the company has cultivated a work environment that many employees describe as a “second home.”
Inside its facilities, it is not uncommon to see mothers, daughters and sisters working side-by-side, supporting one another professionally while strengthening family bonds within the workplace.
This unique culture of trust and belonging not only ensures economic stability for women but also fosters confidence, dignity and a deep sense of pride in their professional journeys.
Speaking about the company’s philosophy, Bipin Hadvani said: “Empowering women through employment not only strengthen families but also contributes significantly to the socio-economic development of society. Our vision is to build a workforce that values diversity and equality.”
Supporting Women Beyond the Workplace
One of the company’s most distinctive initiatives is the Kariyavar (Kanya Vivah) Bonus Scheme, introduced in 2016 to provide financial support to unmarried women employees when they get married.
Since the programme’s launch, ₹6.96 crore has been distributed, benefiting 506 women employees.
The 2024–25 period marked a milestone, with ₹2.01 crore disbursed to 125 beneficiaries, the highest number so far. In one remarkable case, a single woman employee received ₹5.74 lakh as part of the wedding bonus scheme.
Explaining the idea behind the initiative, Shivangi Hadvani said: “The Kanya Vivah bonus is our way of showing gratitude. A wedding is an important milestone, and we believe it is our duty to support our female colleagues emotionally and financially as they begin a new journey.”
A Growing Legacy of Inclusive Growth
Founded in 1999, Rajkot-headquartered Gopal Snacks has grown into a prominent player in India’s organised traditional snack industry, known for its focus on quality, consistency and inclusive workplace culture.
As International Women’s Day approaches, the company’s journey highlights an important truth — when women are empowered with opportunity and dignity, businesses prosper and communities flourish.
For hundreds of women at Gopal Snacks, the workplace is more than just a job. It is a platform for economic independence, mutual support and shared dreams for the future.
