Runaya, a Vedanta company specialising in advanced technological solutions for the circular economy and critical metal recovery, has achieved 55% women representation across its workforce, strengthening its focus on diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities in manufacturing. Women at Runaya are already leading key functions across Operations, Finance, Human Resources, Legal, Commercial, ESG and Corporate Communications. The company is building structured career pathways that enable women to progress across operational, technical and business roles, with opportunities to take on greater responsibilities and leadership positions.
Runaya’s approach extends beyond hiring to creating an environment that supports long-term careers. Equal shift access, including opportunities to work night shifts, is supported by dedicated safety and transportation arrangements, welfare initiatives and accommodation at Vedanta townships. The company also undertakes initiatives such as spouse hiring, talent mobility and workplace support to help employees navigate career and personal commitments.
The company believes that providing equitable access to opportunities is particularly important in manufacturing and other traditionally male-dominated sectors. With NITI Aayog identifying further scope for increasing women’s participation in manufacturing and other non-traditional sectors, Runaya is focusing on building an inclusive workforce that can contribute to the industry’s changing requirements.
For several women at Runaya, manufacturing has provided an opportunity to build professional independence and create new possibilities for their families. First-generation professionals have progressed into leadership positions through cross-functional assignments, continuous learning and increased responsibilities. Employees have also pursued higher education alongside their careers, while a Graduate Engineer Trainee has progressed to become Head of Commercial for Runaya’s Recycling business.
Naivedya Agarwal, Managing Director, Runaya, said, “Manufacturing has recognized the need for inclusion for years, but meaningful change requires creating equal access to opportunity and leadership. Our 60% representation target is deliberate and reflects our belief that diversity strengthens not just the workforce, but the quality of work we deliver. As the manufacturing and critical metals sector grows phenomenally, diverse perspectives are enriching how we solve problems, innovate, and respond to a rapidly evolving industry. By building equal pathways to leadership, we are creating a workforce that is more agile, capable, and ready to shape India’s next phase of industrial growth.”
Runaya is an innovative Indian startup focused on sustainability and advanced materials, revolutionizing the industrial landscape with cutting-edge solutions. Established in 2017, Runaya specializes in metal recovery, waste management, and sustainable manufacturing practices, particularly in the aluminum industry.
The company leverages advanced technologies to recover valuable resources from industrial by-products, minimizing waste and reducing environmental impact. Runaya’s operations align with the principles of the circular economy, helping industries enhance resource efficiency while addressing critical environmental challenges. With its forward-thinking approach and commitment to sustainability, Runaya is transforming conventional industrial processes into eco-friendly and value-driven solutions
