Vedanta Group has reported that its girl-focused programmes benefited more than 10 lakh girls during FY26 across over 13 Indian states, as well as its international operating locations in South Africa and Zambia. The initiatives cover education, healthcare, sports, skill development and livelihood opportunities, supporting girls at different stages of their lives.
The announcement coincides with the International Day of the Girl Child, which highlights the importance of protecting girls’ rights and improving their access to education, healthcare and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Vedanta’s programmes aim to provide support from early childhood through adolescence and into adulthood. Through its Nand Ghars, the Group has reached over 5 lakh children, helping improve early childhood development and providing a stronger foundation for young girls. The company is also supporting education through functional science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) laboratories and digital classrooms, helping girls develop skills for future careers.
Vocational training programmes are another part of the initiative, providing opportunities for girls to acquire practical skills that can help them secure employment and earn a livelihood. Healthcare remains a key area of focus, particularly for adolescent girls. Vedanta’s initiatives address anaemia, menstrual hygiene and cervical cancer awareness. At the community level, the Group has reached more than 2 lakh people through programmes that encourage discussions on adolescence, prevention of child marriage and women’s legal rights.
Sports programmes are also helping girls build confidence, develop discipline and pursue competitive opportunities. Vedanta is expanding access to football, karate and other martial arts. Its initiatives include residential girls’ football academies in Rajasthan and Goa, while martial arts programmes have been extended to Odisha and Visakhapatnam. The football programme has also created pathways for talented players to progress to higher levels of competition, with participants reaching India Under-16 and Under-17 trials and securing state-level representation.
These initiatives contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including those related to zero hunger, good health, quality education, gender equality and decent work and economic growth. Alongside its community programmes, Vedanta has set a target of achieving 35% women’s representation across all levels of its organisation. The goal comes amid continued underrepresentation of women in industrial sectors.
According to the Annual Survey of Industries, women accounted for around 18% of direct industrial employment in India in 2023–24, while their share in core sectors such as mining and metals remains approximately 6%. Through its education, health, sports and employment initiatives, Vedanta aims to widen opportunities for girls and women, helping them gain access to resources, develop skills and participate more actively in their communities and the economy.
Vedanta Group is a leading global producer of metals, oil and gas, critical minerals, power and technology. The company supplies key materials that support the global energy transition, new technologies and the growth of a sustainable economy. Its diversified businesses contribute to industrial development, energy security and technological progress across various industries.
With operations across India, Africa, the Middle East and East Asia, Vedanta has a strong presence in regions driving global economic growth. Sustainability remains central to its business strategy, supported by robust ESG practices, employee well-being and a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. By combining natural resources, technology and human expertise, Vedanta aims to support economic growth, improve community livelihoods and create long-term value for all its stakeholders.
