Vedanta Ltd., one of India’s leading natural resources companies, has announced an ambitious plan to increase female representation in its workforce to 30% by 2030.
The initiative is part of the company’s broader commitment to gender diversity, inclusion, and workplace transformation.
With 28% of its leadership roles already held by women, Vedanta is setting a new benchmark in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Vedanta Ltd. Driving Gender Diversity in a Male-Dominated Industry
The metals and mining sector has historically seen low female participation, with global industry averages hovering around 8% in leadership roles.
Vedanta, however, has surpassed this benchmark, ensuring that women play a central role in shaping the future of India’s critical minerals and clean energy sector.
Madhu Srivastava, Chief Human Resources Officer at Vedanta, emphasized the company’s commitment to dismantling invisible barriers that hinder women’s career growth.
She stated, “We don’t just include women—we elevate them as central architects of transformation.”
Key Initiatives Supporting Women in Vedanta
Vedanta has introduced progressive workplace policies designed to support women at every stage of their careers. These include:
- Hybrid work models and flexible hours to balance professional and personal responsibilities.
- 12-month maternity sabbaticals to ensure career continuity.
- Crèche facilities and spouse hiring programs to provide holistic family support.
- All-women leadership teams managing key operations, including Jharsuguda’s aluminium potline and India’s first all-women underground mine rescue teams in Rajasthan.
Women Leading the Charge in Mining and Exploration
Vedanta’s female leaders are breaking new ground in the industry.
Dr. Kavita Bhardwaj, Deputy CEO of Hindmetal Exploration, is spearheading India’s search for critical minerals, ensuring that women play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s industrial future.
Women now lead night shifts in control rooms at the Rampura Agucha mine, marking a significant step toward workplace inclusivity.
This milestone was achieved through active engagement with regulators to establish gender parity in working hours.
Impact on India’s Workforce and Economy
India’s female workforce participation dropped to 19% in 2021, highlighting the urgent need for corporate-led diversity initiatives.
Vedanta’s commitment to gender inclusion is expected to set a precedent for other industries, driving economic growth and workforce transformation.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Limited, emphasized the economic benefits of gender diversity.
She stated, “Closing the gender gap will help India gain USD 770 billion with just a 10% increase in female workforce participation.”
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