NEW DELHI (India CSR): Vedanta Group is proud to celebrate the remarkable contributions of women across its operations as they continue to break barriers and redefine the future of the industry. Today, the Group announced that with 21% gender diversity in its workforce, it is well on track to achieve its target of 30% women representation by 2030. Notably, 28% of its women representation is in decision-making roles, highest among metals and mining companies in India.
Addressing Workforce Gender Gap
The natural resources sector has historically faced glaring under-representation of women in its workforce. As one of the world’s fastest growing natural resources companies, Vedanta is bridging the talent gap by adding qualified women into its fold. Aligned with Vedanta’s sustainability goals, the company has implemented progressive people policies to support its workforce, including rich job content, targeted hiring, mentorship programs, accelerated career-growth opportunities in high-growth businesses. Policies such as ‘No Questions Asked’ work-from-home option for women, flexible work hours, yearlong sabbatical for childcare, spouse hiring etc., support their growth during different life-stages. Vedanta also ensures financial aid for education and gender affirmation procedures, reinforcing its commitment to transgender inclusion.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar’s Vision
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Limited and Non-Executive Director of Vedanta Limited, added, “At Vedanta, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace for all. Women-led development has become the centerpiece of sustainable growth in India – and we at Vedanta are dedicated to support this. Closing the gender gap will help India gain USD 770 billion with just a 10% increase in female workforce participation. This day is not just about equality – it’s about unlocking a massive economic opportunity. Investing in women-led development at the grassroots level is not just a social imperative; it is the smartest economic decision. In our endeavour to Accelerate Action through progressive policies, such as flexible working hours, no-questions asked leave, upskilling initiatives and leadership pipeline development – we are ensuring that a job is not defined by gender but by capability. At Vedanta, we are not just redefining gender roles in a male-dominated industry—we are building a future where diversity drives innovation, inclusion fuels progress, and every individual has the power to create a lasting impact.”
Historic Mining Restrictions
In the early 20th century, women working in metals and mining were a common sight. However, the Indian Mining Act of 1923 restricted their entry into underground mines, and a complete ban was imposed in 1937 under the British rule. Although the restriction was briefly lifted from 1943 to 1946 – allowing nearly 70,000 women to work underground—the perception of metals & mining as an unsuitable profession for women persisted for over 80 years. It was only in 2019, after a petition by a group of seven mining engineering students, that the Indian government finally lifted the ban and Vedanta’s Hindustan Zinc swiftly emerged as the first company ever to deploy women mine engineers in their underground mines.
Key Initiatives for Gender Diversity at Vedanta
- Hindustan Zinc has commissioned India’s first and second all-women underground mine rescue teams which later, secured second place against top global teams at the International Mines Rescue Competition 2024 in Colombia
- Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, has announced that it will have an entire production line operated and maintained exclusively by women, at its largest plant in Jharsuguda, Odisha. The Jharsuguda aluminium smelter is the world’s largest. The project will be executed in three phases, with more than 100 duty positions identified across various levels, expertise, and competencies
- The all-women security team christened Durga Vahini by Cairn Oil & Gas is pivotal to stepping up security at Vedanta’s oil fields in Rajasthan, ensuring safety across 38 sites. Women from rural areas now form a Quick Response Team (QRT), enhancing emergency preparedness.
Women’s Day Initiatives
Besides, Vedanta’s International Women’s Day celebrations extend beyond a single day, with a host of initiatives running throughout March 2025. At Hindustan Zinc and Vedanta Sesa Goa, select women professionals will have the opportunity to shadow key leaders. Self-Defence workshops by Vedanta will be conducted across all Vedanta business units. These sessions will equip 15,000 women with essential skills in threat identification, emergency response, and practical self-defence techniques, boosting personal safety and confidence. Sakhi Utsav by Hindustan Zinc will bring together 10,000 Sakhi didis from Rajasthan and Uttarakhand. This event will highlight women’s contributions in entrepreneurship, social advocacy, and talent development.
Through its industry-leading people practices, Vedanta is shaping a future where women across industries and communities have equal access to opportunities, driving progress for themselves and for India’s growth.
(India CSR)
