Step inside the story of Chennai, and you’ll find the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) at its heart—caring for every road, park, and family across a sprawling, vibrant city. As India’s oldest municipal institution, GCC fuses rich tradition with forward-thinking leadership, delivering services and infrastructure to more than 7 million residents over 426 square kilometres.
In 2022, GCC blazed a new trail by launching the Gender and Policy Lab (GPL)—an unprecedented public sector initiative devoted entirely to gender equality, women’s safety, and inclusive urban design. Supported by the World Bank and Nirbhaya Funds, this Lab is a hub for ideas, research, and action—bringing together talented professionals, civic leaders, academics, and community partners.
The Gender and Policy Lab’s mission is as ambitious as it is vital: to build a city where every woman, girl, and gender-diverse person moves fearlessly, works with dignity, and flourishes in public life. The Lab starts with listening—studying the daily experiences of women across public spaces, including conservancy workers, drivers, and delivery agents, to find gaps in safety and accessibility. Its studies shape citywide action, from lighting “dark spots” to improving bus routes based on women’s travel needs.
In the classroom, GPL runs gender clubs in city schools, opening young minds to new possibilities and challenging stereotypes through games, workshops, and lively debates. Out in the community, its campaigns—such as “Thappunu Therinja Pattunu Kelu”—encourage bystanders to act and advocate for safer public spaces. The team’s ongoing collaborations have led to the development of inclusive design guides, toolkits for safer urban planning, and regular gender-sensitivity training for government staff and field workers.
What makes GPL exceptional is its real-world impact: partnerships with transit agencies to improve safety for women on the move, data-driven audits to upgrade infrastructure, and a commitment to seeing every municipal project through a gender-equal lens. The Lab influences policy at every level—offering recommendations for Tamil Nadu’s women’s and elderly policy and championing SDGs that put equality at the forefront.
Everything is rooted in the spirit of inclusion and accountability. An Apex Committee of senior city and state leaders, police officials, and experts guide GPL’s work, reviewing progress and sharing learning across departments. As the Lab grows, it is helping Chennai become a true beacon of inclusive urban leadership—demonstrating the difference that focused, empathetic public service can make.
Joining GCC and its Gender and Policy Lab means shaping a modern metropolis—one where detailed research, thoughtful planning, and community partnerships unlock a safer, more equal future for all. For professionals seeking careers with purpose and real social impact, this is where you can leave a lasting mark.
