ThoughtWorks rolls out gender affirmation policy

BENGALURU: Global software consultancy firm Thought-Works has rolled out a gender affirmation surgery and transition policy in India, an extension of its diversity and inclusion mandate.

The new policy enables transgender employees to go through their transition process as a means to express themselves and feel comfortable in their own skin, according to the US-based firm.

ThoughtWorks joins companies like Godrej Group, Tata Steel, TCS, Accenture, Intuit and RBS India, which have recently taken steps towards creating inclusive policies for transgender individuals at the workplace.


The gender affirmation surgery policy outlines the prescribed process and support available to employees when they seek to affirm or transition their gender, or apply for transition leave. It also gives employees the opportunity to utilise the corporate medical insurance plan while undergoing transition.

The benefits claimed remain confidential, ensuring privacy for the individual.

“One of our core objectives is to build a culture that’s equitable for all, and we know our policies play a critical role in reflecting this. This new policy is another step in our efforts to create a safe and supportive workplace for our transgender/LGBTQ+ employees,” Tina Vinod, head of diversity and inclusion at ThoughtWorks in India, told ET.

Under the ambit of the policy, there is no legal requirement to inform the company of the employee’s decision to undergo a transition surgery. The policy has been effective since January.