RPG Group introduces LGBTQIA+ inclusion and employee wellness initiatives

With an aim to create a welcoming and safe environment for employees, RPG Group, one of India’s fastest-growing conglomerates, has introduced two initiatives, celebrating the Pride Month. These initiatives are introduced to highlight its commitment towards diversity and inclusivity, championing LGBTQIA+ rights across its companies.

The group has introduced LGBTQIA+ and Partners Benefits Policy which will help redefining equality with extending comprehensive benefits to employees and their partners.

The policy will cover all the employees and their partners irrespective of sexual orientation or marital status, which is its primary aim. This progressive policy will acknowledge the partners of its employees, as being equal to a ‘spouse’ or a ‘spousal equivalent.’ This means that both same-sex and heterosexual partners now have the same privileges as spouses, such as insurance coverage, leaves, social security, and retirement benefits, as mandated by the law.

Additionally, the policy guarantees that legally adopted children of employees’ partners are considered ‘dependents,’ thereby extending the benefits to the entire family unit.

Speaking on the initiatives, Harsh Goenka, chairman, RPG Group, shared his beliefs and emphasised how they are not only embracing diversity as a choice, but their responsibility. “As we celebrate #PrideMonth, let us remember that true progress lies in respecting and uplifting every individual’s journey. Together, let’s create a world where love, acceptance, and equality reign,” he further added.

Moreover, S ‘Venky’ Venkatesh, president group-HR, proudly expresses his enthusiasm towards the initiative by acknowledging the ways in which RPG is creating inclusive, safe, and happy work environments for its employees. “Our LGBTQIA+ and Partners Benefits Policy reflects our belief in equality and recognises the importance of extending benefits to all partners, regardless of sexual orientation. We lay equal emphasis on mental health as we do on physical health, which is why we have tied up with a mental health care clinic to provide free services to our employees,” he added.

He also talked about how the group is trying to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. For instance, the company also has an R-Shield, a dedicated helpline against harassment, that reinforces its commitment to provide a voice and support system for all, ensuring that such behaviour has no place within RPG Group.

In line with its commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, the group’s efforts have always been beyond mere policies. Starting in 2022, the Group took great pride in actively recruiting transgender individuals for positions across its factories and offices in CEAT and KEC. This initiative not only promotes equal employment opportunities but also fosters a more diverse workforce.