Hindustan Zinc: Paving the Way for Women in Science and Technology
Hindustan Zinc, India’s largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, proudly celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, acknowledging the outstanding contributions of women in its operations. The company has set a benchmark in the manufacturing and mining sectors by fostering gender diversity and empowering women in traditionally male-dominated industries.
With over 25% of its workforce comprising women, Hindustan Zinc is leading the charge in breaking stereotypes within the manufacturing sector. The company boasts over 700 female employees, including more than 200 women engineers in leadership and operational roles, making significant strides in redefining the metals and mining industry.
Women at the Forefront of Innovation
At Hindustan Zinc, women are playing a crucial role in engineering, research, geology, and laboratory sciences. An impressive 70% of the company’s female workforce comes from science backgrounds, contributing actively to mining, engineering, and core operations. These professionals are driving technological advancements in automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0 technologies, making mining operations safer, smarter, and more accessible to a diverse workforce.
The company has also made history with:
- India’s first female mine manager in an underground mine
- The country’s first and second all-women underground rescue teams, working at Hindustan Zinc sites
Through digital transformation, Hindustan Zinc is reducing manual labor dependency by integrating tele-remote underground mining, real-time analytics, and automation, ensuring a more inclusive environment with equal career opportunities for all.
Commitment to Gender Diversity
Reinforcing this commitment, Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc, stated:
“Hindustan Zinc is dedicated to increasing women’s participation in the workforce to 25% by 2025 and 30% by 2030. By providing opportunities, especially in science and mining, we are shaping a future where women are not only recognized but also celebrated in traditionally male-dominated fields. Our focus on women in leadership is not just about gender equality—it is about harnessing diverse perspectives to drive problem-solving and decision-making in complex environments.”
Empowering Women Beyond Employment
Beyond direct employment, Hindustan Zinc is actively contributing to skill development through its Zinc Skill Centre, which has trained over 500 women in pre-vocational science-related courses, including nursing and electrical work, enhancing their employability and financial independence.
The company also promotes progressive policies such as:
- Partner employment support
- Year-round childcare leave
- Mental and physical health leave policies
- Career advancement opportunities
As a leader in India’s mining and metals industry, Hindustan Zinc is breaking barriers, redefining industry standards, and championing inclusivity. With science-driven innovation and a commitment to gender diversity, the company is setting a new benchmark for the future of mining and manufacturing.
