In a significant milestone for India and Hindustan Zinc Limited (NSE: HINDZINC), the company’s pioneering all-women mine rescue team has claimed second place in the women’s taskforce category at the XIII International Mines Rescue Competition.
This year’s event, organized by Colombia’s National Mining Agency in collaboration with the International Mines Rescue Body (IMRB), featured over 20 teams from eight nations. Notably, this marks the first time an all-women team has represented India on such a prestigious global platform.
The annual competition involved rescue drills and tests designed to simulate critical underground mine rescue scenarios. Teams were evaluated on both practical skills and technical knowledge across six categories, including rescue operations in various atmospheres, first aid, equipment maintenance, and theoretical assessments.
Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc Limited, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment: “Our women in mining have achieved something truly unprecedented. As the first all-women team to represent India, they have brought international recognition to our country. Competing against more than 20 teams in a gender-neutral environment, these remarkable women have made India proud. This achievement highlights that women possess equal capability, showcasing their grit and determination.”
Team member Nehal Solanki shared her excitement: “It’s surreal to make history as India’s first women’s team on this global stage and to secure a second-place finish. I am grateful for Hindustan Zinc’s support throughout my journey.” Another team member, Sandhya Singh, remarked, “Seeing the Indian flag raised in Colombia was a proud moment. The competition challenged us, and this recognition validates our hard work. I’m thankful for Hindustan Zinc’s initiatives that are opening new doors for women in mining.”
Hindustan Zinc is dedicated to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce, prioritizing initiatives that challenge stereotypes in the mining sector. The company supports women at every career stage, offering opportunities like night shifts, progressive policies for parental leave, and mental health prioritization.
As an equal-opportunity employer, Hindustan Zinc believes a diverse workforce drives high performance, reflected in its nearly 22% female representation in executive roles and 54% of female engineers in those positions. The company aims for 30% diversity across all executive and management roles.
Hindustan Zinc Limited, part of the Vedanta Group, is the second-largest integrated zinc producer globally and the third-largest silver producer, supplying to over 40 countries and holding a 75% share of India’s primary zinc market. Recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in metals and mining by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023, Hindustan Zinc is committed to innovation and leading ESG practices.
The company also launched Asia’s first low-carbon ‘green’ zinc brand, significantly reducing its carbon footprint, and is a certified water-positive entity. Hindustan Zinc is dedicated to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 or sooner, playing a crucial role in providing essential metals for the global energy transition toward a sustainable future.
