Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, marked the 78th Independence Day by launching the third phase of its pioneering “Project Shree Shakti.” This initiative aims to integrate women into night shift operations at its smelter in Jharsuguda, Odisha.
The latest phase, inaugurated by Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director of Vedanta Limited and Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc, allows women greater flexibility in their working hours and opens up opportunities for them to take on critical roles in core plant operations. This step reinforces Vedanta Aluminium’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace while ensuring the safety and well-being of its employees.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar emphasized the importance of equal opportunities, stating, “Project Shree Shakti is a significant move towards transforming Odisha’s industrial landscape. At Vedanta, we are committed to fostering an environment where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive.”
Project Shree Shakti is a symbol of empowerment and independence, providing women professionals with the flexibility to manage their careers on their own terms. The initiative includes women in night shifts across Vedanta’s operations in Odisha, ensuring a safe and supportive work environment. This project not only creates new avenues for women to advance in their careers but also contributes to a broader shift towards equitable access to opportunities.
Under this initiative, women employees are now taking on advanced operational tasks traditionally handled by men, showcasing their technical expertise. The program empowers women with professional skills, advanced training in industrial processes, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies. To ensure a smooth transition, Vedanta has enhanced safety measures, including specialized workforce training, secure commuting arrangements, and exclusive platforms for women employees to connect and support each other.
Soni Kumari, a Pot Tending Machine operator at Vedanta Aluminium’s Jharsuguda plant, shared her experience, saying, “Working under the Shree Shakti Project has been transformative. The skills I’ve gained have made me more independent and confident, allowing me to pursue both my career and personal goals.”
Vedanta Aluminium, a part of Vedanta Limited, produces over half of India’s aluminium, totaling 2.37 million tonnes in FY24. The company leads in value-added aluminium products used in key industries and has been recognized for its sustainable practices, ranking first in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023 for the aluminium industry.
Vedanta Limited, a subsidiary of Vedanta Resources Limited, is a major player in the global Oil & Gas and Metals sectors, with significant operations in India, South Africa, and Namibia. The company is committed to sustainable development and has set a goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 or sooner, pledging $5 billion over the next decade to accelerate this transition. Vedanta also invests heavily in social impact initiatives, including its flagship Nand Ghars program, which focuses on child nutrition, education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Vedanta Limited is listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange.
