Empowering Women in the Mining Sector: A Step Towards Inclusivity and Leadership

The mining sector, traditionally a male-dominated industry, is witnessing a transformation with increasing participation of women. Recognizing and encouraging this shift, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with Coal India Limited (CIL), organized the “Celebrating Women in Mining Sector” event as a prelude to International Women’s Day. The event aimed to honor women’s contributions, address challenges, and discuss strategies for fostering inclusivity in mining. It was attended by key ministers, industry leaders, and professionals from leading organizations like IBM, TATA, GSI, ADANI, and Vedanta.

The event featured felicitation of 46 outstanding women professionals, along with two panel discussions on gender inclusivity and empowerment. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities and breaking barriers for women in mining.

Key Highlights of the Event

1. Leadership and Government Commitment

• Organized by the Ministry of Mines in collaboration with Coal India Limited (CIL).

Attended by

• Shri G. Kishan Reddy (Union Minister of Coal and Mines)
• Shri Satish Chandra Dubey (Minister of State for Coal and Mines)
• Minister of Women and Child Development, Telangana
• Ministers emphasized the importance of women’s inclusion in mining and highlighted various government initiatives to promote gender diversity.

2. Felicitation of Women Professionals

• 46 women professionals honored for their contributions to the mining sector.
• Awardees included women from top organizations like IBM, TATA, GSI, ADANI, Vedanta, NGOs, PSUs, and private firms.
• Women leaders from Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat’s mining departments also participated, reflecting a nationwide commitment to empowerment.

3. Symbolic Lamp Lighting Ceremony

• Women participants were invited to light the lamp, symbolizing progress and empowerment in mining.

4. Panel Discussions on Women’s Empowerment in Mining

Panel Discussion I: Women’s Perspective on Inclusivity in Mining – Challenges & Way Ahead

• Moderator: Shri Nirupama Kotru, JS & FA.

Focused on,

• Barriers faced by women in mining.
• Need for structural and cultural changes for inclusivity.
• Personal experiences and practical solutions shared by panelists.

Panel Discussion II: Empowering Women in Mining – Inclusivity, Need, Approach, and Way Forward

• Moderator: Smt. Farida M. Naik, JS (FMN).

Focused on,

• Strategies for empowering women in mining.
• Role of mentorship, leadership, and policy interventions in fostering inclusivity.
• Steps required to break gender barriers in the sector.

5. Key Takeaways

• Government and industry commitment to fostering women’s participation in mining.
• Need for mentorship programs and leadership roles for women.
• Policy interventions required for a more inclusive mining sector.
• Encouraging young women to consider mining as a viable career option.
• Recognition of women’s achievements as a driving force for future progress.