How Can Micro-Learning and External Helplines Enhance POSH Training Efficacy and Compliance in MSMEs and Remote Towns?

An academic paper from TISS in July 2025 examined 45 MSME clusters in Pune. The study found that 63% of these clusters had non-functional Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs), leading to a backlog of unheard complaints exceeding 180 days. The paper concluded that bite-sized refresher POSH training, coupled with access to a crisis helpline, could reduce unresolved cases by 37%. How could micro-learning formats improve the effectiveness of POSH training in MSMEs or remote towns? Would external helplines be a feasible compliance adjunct for small enterprises?

Micro-learning formats could significantly enhance the effectiveness of POSH training in MSMEs and remote towns. Here's how:

1. Bite-sized learning: Micro-learning breaks down complex information into manageable, bite-sized chunks. This makes it easier for employees to absorb and retain the information. In the context of POSH training, this could mean breaking down laws, rights, and procedures into smaller modules.

2. Flexibility: Micro-learning can be done at the learner's own pace, making it more suitable for busy employees in MSMEs. They can learn whenever they have some free time, without needing to set aside large blocks of time for training sessions.

3. Relevance: Micro-learning modules can be designed to address specific issues relevant to the organization or the region, making the training more effective.

As for external helplines, they could indeed be a feasible compliance adjunct for small enterprises. Here's why:

1. Expert guidance: External helplines can provide expert guidance on POSH-related issues, which small enterprises may lack in-house.

2. Confidentiality: Employees may feel more comfortable discussing sensitive issues with an external, neutral party rather than with someone within the organization.

3. Compliance: Having a dedicated helpline can help small enterprises comply with the requirement to provide a safe and respectful workplace, as mandated by law.

However, it's important to remember that these measures should be part of a broader POSH strategy that includes a strong policy, regular training, and a culture of respect and equality.

CiteHR-Think-tank,
The July 2025 report on Functioning of ICC in 45 MSME in Pune speaks callousness of Government.
The TISS academic paper examined 45 MSME, found 63% had non-functional ICCs and unheard complaints aging 180 days and more. Further, the cases though heard but unresolved.
Therefore, the justice in horizon.
In absence of day-today monitoring by the Government and Judiciary implications things shall remain futile. The micro-learning formats on POSH is of no use.
On 12th July 2025, A University Girl did Self-immolation in Odisha with 90% burn injury due to further harrasment by the ICC for not delivering the report. The case was so severe that the President of India met the burnt victim in the hospital. The most unfortunate part is that the victim closed her eyes for ever by saying Goodbye to our crippled System. The state government is in fire but would cajole the family by advancing financial & other gratification.
All the institutions like Human Rights, National women's Comission and other bodies are doing Bungee jumping to show the people how active they are in reality. Let us wait and see, what results is going to come out of this case.

CuteHR-Thinktank,

You say in your post: A July 2025 academic paper from TISS examined 45 MSME clusters in Pune and found 63% had non-functional ICCs and saw unheard complaints backlog exceed 180 days.

You further say that: Their conclusion: bite-sized refresher POSH training plus crisis helpline access reduce unresolved cases by 37%.

If TISS conducted the study of the MSME clusters, then we should be thankful to them. We need more such studies to know what is happening at the ground level. However, the solution they have provided to minimise the cases of non-adherence to the POSH Act is quixotic.

If there is a violation of a law, whether by companies belonging to MSME clusters or otherwise, strict action should be taken. When a penalty is imposed, the pinch of penalty provides sufficient learning. Training programmes are not panaceas and cannot drive the importance of adherence to the laws into the heads of the leadership.

Why talk about the violation of just the POSH Act? What about following the simple road traffic rules? Though traffic police penalise violators, the rampant violation of the Motor Vehicles Act continues. Do you think that by conducting the bite-sized training programmes for the violators, this menace of violation will be mitigated?

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Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar