Hindustan Zinc Limited, the world’s largest integrated zinc producer, has introduced a pioneering initiative aimed at advancing workplace inclusion through the launch of its Guidebook to Inclusive Language. This guidebook is a strategic effort to promote diversity, respect, and inclusivity within the organization, with a focus on supporting equitable practices across all levels of the company. It is a cornerstone of Hindustan Zinc’s ongoing commitment to create an environment where diverse communities—including LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those from varied geographical and ethnic backgrounds—feel respected and valued.
The launch event, hosted on Hindustan Zinc’s internal #Zinclusion platform, included a panel discussion on “Allyship,” led by CEO Arun Misra and Dr Sanjay Sharma, a renowned transgender healthcare activist and former Air Commodore. The company’s LGBTQIA+ inclusion policies, which include financial support for employees undergoing gender reaffirmation surgery and other benefits like housing and parenthood policies, highlight its leadership in workplace diversity within the traditionally male-dominated metals and mining industry.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc and Director at Vedanta Limited, expressed her pride in the initiative, stating, “At Vedanta & Hindustan Zinc, we aim to cultivate a culture where everyone is empowered to be their authentic selves. This guidebook reflects our dedication to fostering an environment of togetherness and belonging.”
Hindustan Zinc has also made significant strides in LGBTQIA+ representation, employing 23 LGBTQIA+ individuals across diverse roles, including finance, supply chain, marketing, and quality management. This success is attributed to the company’s progressive approach, which incorporates technology, robotics, and automation, creating more inclusive and standardized job opportunities in a sector traditionally known for manual labor.
Dr Sanjay Sharma highlighted the power of language in shaping workplace culture, stating, “Hindustan Zinc’s Inclusive Language Guidebook is a meaningful step towards creating an environment of respect and dignity.” He also praised the company’s Buddy System, a thoughtful mechanism for embedding inclusivity into the workplace.
Since 2022, Hindustan Zinc has actively included members of the transgender community in its recruitment efforts, aiming to provide them with stable, dignified employment opportunities. With a goal of achieving 30% diversity in its workforce by 2030, the company has already achieved a gender diversity ratio of nearly 26% in its executive team—one of the highest in the metals and mining sector.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the most sustainable company in its category by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment for two consecutive years. The company also launched EcoZen, Asia’s first low-carbon ‘green’ zinc brand, produced using renewable energy with a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to the global average. A leader in both environmental and social responsibility, Hindustan Zinc is dedicated to transforming the lives of millions through its community initiatives and remains a vital player in the global push for a sustainable future.
