Vedanta Aluminium’s latest move underscores its strong belief in empowering women and strengthening workplace diversity and inclusivity. The company has deployed its first all-women locomotive engine team at its aluminium smelter in Jharsuguda. The team comprises four loco drivers (working in shifts), a gatewoman, and two support staff.
This milestone follows an earlier initiative this year when an entire smelter line at the Odisha plant was successfully operated by women. With this latest step, women are now at the helm of a key logistical operation — the internal movement of raw materials — using a dedicated locomotive and rake. The team will oversee the efficient, safe, and smooth operations and maintenance of this asset.
The all-women locomotive team is another industry-first for Vedanta in Jharsuguda. Earlier initiatives include the launch of ‘Shree Shakti,’ under which 108 women took up key operational roles during night shifts. Additionally, Vedanta inaugurated the country’s first all-women managed potline at its aluminium smelter here — a critical production process — employing over 100 women who were selected through internal job postings and upskilled through specialized training programs.
“True progress comes from equal opportunity — where everyone has a chance to contribute, grow, and lead. Inclusivity is not just a core value for us but a catalyst for innovation, resilience, and operational excellence,” said Rajiv Kumar, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium.
He added, “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 are leading from the front and inspiring future generations to reimagine their roles in shaping the nation’s industrial future.”
Sunil Gupta, COO of Vedanta Aluminium, explained, “We have deliberately designed all our roles to be gender-agnostic, opening up a world of opportunities for women who are eager to pursue a career in core operations within the metals, mining, and manufacturing industries.”
Vedanta Aluminium believes in “prioritizing determination, skill, and the will to succeed above all other factors when it comes to hiring practices.” The company is convinced 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 leadership positions. The company unlocks the potential of its women employees by providing advanced training, developing specialized skills, and offering exposure to world-class technologies — further inspiring more women to pursue rewarding and groundbreaking careers in the traditionally male-dominated mining, metals, and modern manufacturing sectors.
