That Vedanta Aluminium truly believes in empowering women cannot be doubted. The Indian has reinforced its commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace by deploying the first all-women locomotive engine team of the Vedanta Group at its aluminium smelter in Jharsuguda. The newly-deployed team comprises four loco drivers (working in shifts), one gatewoman and two support staff.
Earlier this year, an entire smelter line at this plant, in Odisha, had commenced operations with an all-women team.
With this latest initiative, women professionals will now be seen at the helm of one of the plant’s most critical logistical operations, that is, the internal movement of raw materials through a dedicated locomotive engine and rake. They will ensure efficient and safe operations as well as maintenance of this asset.
This is another one in a series of industry-first initiatives at Jharsuguda, including the launch of ‘Shree Shakti’, through which 108 women have taken on key operational roles during night shifts. Not long ago, Vedanta also inaugurated the Indian aluminium industry’s first all-women managed potline here. A critical part of the aluminium production process, this potline will have more than 100 women employees selected through internal job postings and upskilled through specialised training programmes.
Rajiv Kumar, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium believes that “true progress stems from equal opportunity where everyone has the chance to contribute, grow and lead. Inclusivity is not just a core value for us but a catalyst for innovation, resilience and operational excellence.”
According to him, “The deployment of our all-women locomotive team marks another milestone in our journey to break stereotypes and create meaningful pathways for women in industrial operations. From logistics and production to critical engineering functions, our women professionals are leading from the front and inspiring future generations to reimagine their role in shaping the nation’s industrial future.”
Sunil Gupta, COO, Vedanta Aluminium shares, “We have deliberately designed all our roles to be gender agnostic, opening up a world of opportunities for women keen to explore careers in core operations within the metals, mining and manufacturing industries.”
Clearly, Vedanta Aluminium is trying to “prioritise determination, skill, and the will to succeed above all other factors when it comes to our hiring practices.: The company believes that “through these efforts, not only do we build a more diverse industry, but also a more resilient nation.”
At least 1,200 women professionals contribute to Vedanta Aluminium’s success, taking on roles ranging from technical operations to managerial leadership. The company unlocks the full potential of women employees by empowering them with the necessary professional skillsets, advanced training opportunities in industrial processes, and exposure to world-class technologies. This can further inspire more women to pursue rewarding and groundbreaking careers in the traditionally male-dominated mining, metals and modern manufacturing industries.
