Industry-leading, inclusive policies aimed at promoting a diverse workplace
Chittorgarh: Hindustan Zinc, India's only and the world's largest integrated zinc producer, has seen a 44 percent rise in the number of LGBTQIA employees across its operations. This growth is a result of the company's inclusive policies that reflect the company's commitment to creating a diverse and safe workplace. To further strengthen its commitment, Hindustan Zinc has launched its Pride Month campaign, 'RuCallHZLyourHome.'The company has set an example by adopting industry-leading workplace policies to include the LGBTQIA community. These include financial assistance of up to Rs 1 lakh for transgender employees, leave for employees for gender reassignment surgery, and a compensation policy with up to Rs 2 lakh for gender reaffirmation. In addition, a paternity policy for LGBTQIA persons who legally adopt a child and a special housing policy for employees from the LGBTQIA community have also been formulated.
Hindustan Zinc, in the traditionally male-dominated metals and mining sector, has provided job opportunities to 23 transgender employees across its various business units. These employees have significant representation in mainstream roles within the company, including finance, supply chain, marketing, medical, and other departments. The move reflects the company's inclusive approach. Technological advancements such as 4.0, digitalization, robotics, and automation have helped the company reduce manual labor, making the sector more attractive for job employment. Hindustan Zinc's digital mines include modern technologies such as surface-based underground mining (tele-remote) operations, real-time analytics, and automation.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Limited, and Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Limited, shared her views and said that for many individuals from the LGBTQIA community, the outside world and sometimes even their own homes can feel like a stage where they are constantly watched, judged, and misunderstood. He said that at Hindustan Zinc, we strive to create an environment where every individual is valued and empowered to show their true self. Here they are not just an employee but part of the family. We are proud to give our people a homely atmosphere at the workplace.
From the year 2022, the company is expanding its recruitment efforts to actively include members of the transgender community who face challenges in securing sustainable livelihoods for a dignified life. Sharing his experience, LGBTQIA employee Kaushal Singh, working as a civil infrastructure manager, said that initially he had some apprehensions about being accepted, but the culture here is really inclusive. From gender-sensitive policies to mental health sessions and fair recruitment practices, I have always felt seen, respected, and empowered. My colleagues recognize me as an equal contributor, and this is a place where both my identity and expertise are truly valued. He said that Hindustan Zinc's support has not only helped me move forward but also enabled me to speak for others. Ankit Jadon, another LGBTQIA employee working as a store manager at one of the world's top silver-producing mines, said that at Hindustan Zinc, I feel respected, valued, and fully included like any other team member. I am entrusted with important responsibilities and mentored like any other professional with full attention to my development. The inclusive environment and thoughtful policies make me feel safe, motivated, and committed to building a long-term career here. Hindustan Zinc's Zincclusion is an in-house platform that aims to embrace all types of diversity. The main goal of this platform is to create a safe and welcoming workplace for all employees. Zincclusion ensures that employees get equal opportunities to advance regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Through Zinclusio, Hindustan Zinc strives to create a high-performing and innovative culture that draws upon the collective talent of a diverse workforce.