There is nothing like a man’s job. Everything can be done based on the capability of a person and that is what we believe. For us, inclusivity surpasses gender and physical abilities and we ensure that every voice is heard and every voice counts.
As societal norms evolve, businesses recognise the imperative to embrace a more inclusive workforce that reflects the richness of perspectives, experiences, and talents. In 2019, Vedanta Limited achieved a significant milestone by enabling women to work underground, breaking longstanding norms. Priya Agarwal Hebbar proudly stated, "Women are driving heavy-weight forklifts and doing jobs one could not have imagined at one point." Hebbar passionately believes that everyone should be given the opportunity to pursue their passion. She emphasised the company's commitment to helping women achieve dreams that were once considered unattainable.
Vedanta Limited has implemented progressive policies for the LGBTQIA+ community, actively hiring transgender individuals. During her visit to Hindustan Zinc, as she spoke to transgender employees, she understood that gender affirmation surgeries required assistance and the company decided to contribute ₹2 lakhs towards gender affirmation surgeries, along with a 30-day leave for recovery—an initiative likely the first of its kind. Not just that, Hebbar also shared a heartwarming story of the head of security from the LGBTQIA community who fulfilled her dreams of buying a house for her mom and adopting a baby girl. "These stories make everything worth it," Hebbar remarked, highlighting the transformative impact of Vedanta's progressive policies on gender inclusivity.
“No child deserves to go to bed hungry”
During the interview, Priya Agarwal Hebbar highlighted how her father had experienced hunger as a child which shaped the very foundation of Nand Ghar, their flagship initiative working towards combating malnourishment in the country. The initiative aims to impact the lives of 8 crore children in India. In addition to this, to celebrate the International Year of Millets, the Anil Agarwal Foundation has launched a well-researched millet bar, developed in collaboration with the National Institute of Nutrition and ICAR-IIMR (Indian Institute of Millet Research). This bar is being distributed to almost 50,000 children daily in the age group of 3 to 6 years for six months in Anganwadis including Nand Ghars.
“My father always told me that there is no such thing as failure”
“The two principles my father has always taught and followed is to be humble and fearless. If you have belief and conviction that what you’re doing is right, you should do it without fear and you should go ahead and persevere in the field while all the time having your feet on the ground and being humble in terms of helping people and pursuing the right path.”
“When you think about a mining company there is a typical image of men working underground that comes to mind. However, that is changing, and today women are breaking all barriers and working underground completely.”
Emphasising the power of passion, Hebbar encouraged individuals to pursue their goals fearlessly. “Moreover, it's more about breaking a psychological barrier. We aren't women leaders or a woman tennis player, we're leaders, we're players, we are not about our gender but our skill and capabilities and that's the kind of inclusivity we aim for,” she mentioned. This commitment reflects Vedanta Limited's vision of fostering a workplace where inclusivity is about recognising and appreciating individual talents, ensuring a future where everyone can thrive. Priya Agarwal Hebbar's profound insights underscore Vedanta Limited's dedication to creating an environment where breaking barriers is not just an aspiration but an integral part of its corporate identity.
In conclusion, Priya Agarwal Hebbar is championing diversity, equality and sustainability and setting a powerful example for leaders worldwide, reminding us of an inclusive, more equitable, and sustainable future.
*This article is published in collaboration with Vedanta Limited*
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