Vedanta Leads the Charge for Gender Diversity in India’s Mining Sector
On June 16, 2025, coinciding with the International Day of Women in Mining, Vedanta Limited proudly acknowledged its role as the pioneer of gender diversity in underground mining operations in India. As the first company to employ women in this sector in 2019, Vedanta, alongside Hindustan Zinc, has grown to employ over 550 women in its core mining operations across various business lines. The company’s commitment to gender diversity is reflected in its workforce, which includes more than 3,000 women, representing over 22% of its total employees.
Historically, the mining industry has seen a significant under-representation of women. However, Vedanta has achieved many milestones, including establishing India’s first all-women underground mine rescue teams through its Hindustan Zinc division, which boasts three such teams—the highest in the country. Additionally, the company’s initiatives extend beyond mining; significant representation of women is also seen in aluminum production and locomotive operations, with dedicated all-women teams in these areas.
Vedanta’s approach is rooted in harnessing technology and innovation. Through the integration of Industry 4.0, robotics, and automation, the company has not only standardized work processes but has also reduced the need for manual labor traditionally associated with mining. This tech-first approach has opened up differentiated career enhancement opportunities, especially amid the global demand for critical minerals and energy transition metals.
To address the skills gap in this sector, Vedanta actively promotes exciting career options for all genders. The company operates digital mines characterized by tele-remote underground operations, drone surveillance, real-time analytics, and automation, leading to an increase in the number of women pursuing careers in mining.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director of Vedanta Ltd and Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc Ltd, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. She stated, “At Vedanta, we are deeply committed to creating an inclusive workplace that ensures equal opportunity for all. Women-led development is now central to sustainable growth in India. Metals & mining are intrinsic to a low-carbon future, and we need to bridge the skill gap in this sector.”.
The historical context of women in mining in India reveals a complex evolution. Early in the 20th century, women actively participated in mining activities. However, restrictive regulations enacted in 1923 and an outright ban in 1937 limited their roles significantly until the ban was lifted in 2019, following a petition by a group of seven mining engineering students. Subsequently, Vedanta’s Hindustan Zinc became the first company to employ women mine engineers underground.
Yogeshwari Rane made history as India’s first woman to pass the underground and opencast mining first-class examination. Currently employed at Vedanta’s Iron Ore mine in Goa, she expressed her enthusiasm for the field: “Coming from the mining-rich area of Goa, I was always fascinated with this field. And with Vedanta’s pool of opportunities, I’ve had a chance to work in both underground and opencast mines.”
Additionally, Vedanta promotes supportive workplace policies designed to cater to its employees’ needs, including a spouse hiring policy, flexible leave arrangements for childcare, and mental health prioritization. Employees enjoy high-quality living arrangements equipped with modern amenities, including schools, hospitals, daycare centers, and recreational facilities.
About Vedanta Group
The Vedanta Group is a prominent global leader in critical minerals, transition metals, and energy. Its operations extend across India, South Africa, Namibia, Liberia, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. As the largest integrated producer of zinc and a leading producer of aluminium and silver, Vedanta is fundamental to supplying essential materials for energy transitions. Moreover, it represents India’s only private oil and gas producer while also being a significant player in the power generation sector and entering electronics and display glass manufacturing. For further details, visit Vedanta’s official website.
