The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
NEW DELHI, MARCH 6, 2025
In a landmark event ahead of International Women’s Day, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with Coal India Limited (CIL), hosted “Celebrating Women in Mining Sector” to honor and empower women professionals in the mining industry. The event, attended by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey, and Minister of Women and Child Welfare, Telangana D. Anasuya Seethakka, underscored the government’s commitment to fostering gender diversity in this traditionally male-dominated field.
The ceremony commenced with women participants lighting the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing their growing leadership and contributions to the sector. A highlight of the event was the felicitation of 46 distinguished women professionals from organizations such as IBM, TATA, GSI, ADANI, Vedanta, NGOs, and several PSUs, recognizing their exemplary achievements in breaking barriers and driving progress. The presence of women heads of mining departments from Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat further reinforced the momentum toward greater inclusivity in the industry.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy lauded the significant role of women in the mining sector, emphasizing the need for equal opportunities and support structures to encourage their continued participation. Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey outlined various government initiatives aimed at promoting gender inclusivity, ensuring a safe and conducive work environment for women in mining. Minister D. Anasuya Seethakka reaffirmed the government’s focus on empowering women across all sectors, including mining, through progressive policies and initiatives.
The event featured two insightful panel discussions, each addressing key aspects of women’s empowerment in the mining sector. The first panel, “Women’s Perspective on Inclusivity in Mining – Challenges & Way Ahead,” was moderated by Nirupama Kotru, JS & FA, Ministry of Mines. It focused on the structural and cultural barriers limiting women’s participation in mining, with panelists sharing personal experiences and proposing actionable solutions to foster inclusivity and leadership.
The second panel, “Empowering Women in Mining – Inclusivity, Need, Approach, and Way Forward,” was led by Farida M. Naik, JS, Ministry of Mines. The discussion revolved around mentorship, leadership, and policy interventions essential for empowering women. Panelists emphasized the importance of breaking gender stereotypes and implementing long-term strategies to enhance women’s role in the mining industry.
Both discussions underscored the need for collective action, mentorship programs, and policy reforms to ensure women are not only present in the industry but also thrive as leaders and innovators.
The event served as a powerful reminder that Naari Shakti (women power) is shaping the future of mining, inspiring the next generation to step forward with confidence. By celebrating achievements, addressing challenges, and committing to inclusivity, the government and industry leaders reaffirmed their dedication to advancing gender diversity and fostering sustainable career opportunities for women in mining.
