Teams at Amazon constantly seek to create safe spaces where persons with disabilities can bring their whole selves to work. From helping them upskill and find role fitment to implementing infrastructure changes across its operations network, Amazon has taken several decisive steps. The company already works with thousands of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) associates and consistently looks to create a better, more inclusive workspace for everyone. Here are 4 ways in which Amazon India creates employment, skilling and collaboration opportunities for persons with disabilities in its operations network.
1. MoUs with 5 state governments for skilling and employment opportunities
Amazon India has signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state governments of Haryana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to provide skilling and employment opportunities across Amazon India’s operations network to candidates with disabilities. Opportunities will be provided at Amazon’s fulfilment centres, sortation centres and delivery stations for various roles including stowing, picking, packing, and sorting.
Liju Thomas, Director – People Experience and Technology (PXT), India Operations, Amazon, says, "At Amazon India, we foster a culture that is conducive to growth and offers people equal opportunities to unlock their full potential. With this initiative, we aim to focus on skilling and livelihood for persons with disabilities across Amazon India’s Operations network, over a period of 3 years."
We thank the Governments of Haryana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu for their relentless support. This complements our existing programs to provide employment opportunities to under-represented groups.
2. Interactive interpreter tool for on-floor communication
Amazon has implemented several infrastructure accommodations to support DHH associates. 'SignAble', a virtual and interactive interpreter platform, is one such initiative that enables real-time communication between DHH associates and other associates on the floor. This tool has resulted in higher collaboration and strengthened morale. By partnering with 'SignAble', Amazon India has enabled seamless trouble shooting and effective interaction.
3. Silent delivery stations
In 2017, Amazon India pioneered the first silent delivery station in Mumbai through the Delivery Service Partner program where the entire station is managed by DHH associates. Scaling this initiative under Project Saksham, Amazon first started with 100+ associates in 2018 and scaled this to about 1,000+ DHH associates in 2021 throughout the country. Amazon India also conducted an extensive infrastructure audit to understand steps required to ensure that buildings across operations sites are accessible to disabled associates.
4. Vocational training for youth with disabilities
In 2022, Amazon India signed an MoU with Sarthak Education Trust which aims to offer unique vocational training services to youth with disabilities, ultimately assisting them in securing placements across a variety of sectors. The focus is on emphasising practical orientation and experiential learning in cutting-edge labs. These opportunities not only support people with disabilities, but create an environment that fosters effective collaboration and growth for everyone.
Amazon India is creating opportunities for many individuals across its operations network, empowering them with financial independence and helping them realise their true potential.
