PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Oct 25: Tata Steel has been recognised for the inclusion of women and transpersons as Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM) operators in mining operations, during an event held yesterday in Kolkata organised by the Women in Mining India.
Industry body “Women in Mining India” collaborated with Australian Trade and Investment Commission for this symposium on the theme “Future-ready mining: Balancing People, Planet & Profits”.
“Mosaic – Diversity & Inclusion initiative by Tata Steel” was awarded in the Hall of Fame for championing diversity and inclusion and transforming the face of the mining sector.
Through this initiative, Tata Steel has not only integrated transperson employees into its mining operations but has also set a benchmark for inclusivity in the industry, by becoming the first company in India to do so.
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In his remarks, D.B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President of Raw Materials, Tata Steel, stated, “At Tata Steel, we believe that diversity and inclusion is a key driver of innovation and success. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment empowers all our employees to reach their full potential, and we are proud to see our efforts recognized at such a prestigious platform.”
The concept of Women in Mines was pioneered at Tata Steel in 2019 to support women operators through training and mentorship which not only promoted gender equality but also benefited the organisation from the diverse skill sets and operational perspectives women bring to the field.
Taking one step ahead and expanding the definition of “Diversity” while further challenging societal norms, a breakthrough step of inclusion of 12 transgender employees as HEMM operators was done in 2021. Today, women and transperson employees are working across mining locations like Jharia, Noamundi & West Bokaro.
This also paved the way for creating supportive policies around gender identity, anti-discrimination measures, equal benefits, and gender-neutral facilities, which enabled transgender employees to feel valued and safe at the workplace. Tata Steel remains dedicated to building a workplace that values every individual, embracing differences to create a stronger, more innovative future.
Women in Mining India started in November 2022 as an industry body and is part of a global network that spans 6 continents and 38 countries.
The society aims to promote women’s employment, retention, empowerment, and upward mobility through impactful events that foster dialogue and best practices in collaboration with corporates and institutions.
Global Delegates from leading metals and mining companies and representatives from the private and public sector, entrepreneurs and business owners, academicians, consultants etc. in the metals and mining sector were present at the symposium.
