By Fatima Latif
The past few years were marked by unprecedented events around the world especially in Jammu and Kashmir. Kashmir had already been in a lockdown, when Covid-19 hit the world. Hence, the effects of the lockdowns were more pronounced here.
However, the shared suffering also brought along with it an opportunity for shared solutions. For Kashmir, this worked. It meant that Kashmir wasn’t exclusively left behind. The quick shift from offline to online mode for work, education and possibly everything meant that Kashmir too could join in — now with the internet services restored.
In the post Covid world, Kashmir is still mitigating past and new challenges. Unemployment is soaring. However, the way the pandemic brought together the world, Kashmir too has gotten an opportunity to take inspiration from the rest of the world. Infact, it has also brought for Kashmiris a chance to take advantage of the many new opportunities that have opened up around the globe.
One such opportunities is the opportunity to work remotely — at any place, from anywhere.
For the most part, our youngsters had the education and the skills but lacked guidance as well as opportunities. Remote jobs have opened up the possibility for them to explore many new careers and opportunities. Infact, remote jobs seem to be more democratic and inclusive in that they do not require one to shift to a tier-1 city or another country all together.
Hence, in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven world, remote jobs have emerged as a transformative force in the employment landscape. The rise of remote work has opened up a plethora of opportunities, making it more accessible for people of all backgrounds and abilities to engage in meaningful employment.
Many young people have reasons because of which they cannot move out of Kashmir. Sometimes, this would become an impediment due to the lack of jobs here. Now, with remote jobs available, it is easier for such youngsters to work in good organisations which do not expect them to move their entire lives to another place.
Thus, remote jobs are healing the pandemic of uprootedness that had become a prerequisite for “success” in the past.
Remote work overcomes geographical barriers that often limit individuals in traditional job setups. Physical location no longer dictates job opportunities, as remote jobs allow individuals to work from anywhere. This flexibility empowers people in rural areas, enabling them to access job opportunities that were once reserved for urban dwellers. By doing so, remote work bridges the gap between different regions and promotes economic growth across the board.
Moreover, remote jobs enhance work-life balance. The traditional 9-to-5 office culture often leads to stress, burnout, and an imbalance between work and personal life. Remote work provides a solution by offering individuals the freedom to work from home or any location of their choice. They can create a work schedule that suits their needs, leading to improved work-life balance. This flexibility benefits parents, caregivers, and individuals with personal commitments, as they can fulfill their responsibilities while actively participating in the workforce.
It also promotes inclusivity for people with disabilities. Traditional work environments may present physical accessibility challenges, making it difficult for individuals with disabilities to fully participate. Remote jobs eliminate these barriers by providing a level playing field. With the right tools and technologies, individuals can work from the comfort of their homes, leveraging their skills and expertise without hindrances. This inclusivity empowers people with disabilities, allowing them to contribute to the workforce and access employment opportunities that were previously out of reach.
Furthermore, remote jobs foster diversity by embracing individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. Employers are no longer limited to hiring within a specific geographic area. Remote work enables companies to tap into a global talent pool, attracting top talent from diverse regions. This diversity of thought and experience drives innovation and enhances problem-solving capabilities within organizations. Additionally, it reduces unconscious biases associated with physical appearances, names, or accents, focusing solely on skills and qualifications.
Remote work has become a game-changer for women from areas such as Jammu and Kashmir. Women, especially married women, who do not have the privilege or the opportunity to work outside, are increasingly taking up remote jobs to grow financially. Day in and day out, social media is filled with posts by such women looking to work. The ability to stay home and work gives married women an opportunity to strike a much needed balance. It helps them be present at home and also grow professionally. With no expectation to show up at a physical office and commute for hours, women are saving up a lot of time and energy. With financial freedom, women can also seek house helps at home and create a safer way to take care of their kids without having to drop them at crèches. If the husbands also have the option to work remotely, it works wonders for a family that can now spend time together. Even though remote work also comes with its own set of challenges for women. However, if dealt with ethically, it can be revolutionary for them.
Hence, remote jobs have brought about a paradigm shift in the world of work. They offer numerous advantages that make them better, more inclusive, and more accessible for everyone. By overcoming geographical barriers, enhancing work-life balance, promoting inclusivity for people with disabilities, fostering diversity, and reducing environmental impact, remote jobs have the potential to transform the employment landscape for the better. Embracing remote work is not just a trend; it is a step towards a more equitable and inclusive workforce for all.
Views expressed in the article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the editorial stance of Kashmir Observer
- The author is a New Delhi based tech-consultant
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