THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

JHARSUGUDA, MARCH 21, 2026

Emphasising purpose-driven leadership and inclusive growth, India’s first woman IPS officer Dr Kiran Bedi described Vedanta Limited as a “diamond of this country” while encouraging organisations to build empathetic, diverse, and value-based workplaces. She was speaking during her visit to Vedanta Aluminium’s mega aluminium plant in Jharsuguda on Saturday as part of the company’s extended Women’s Day 2026 celebrations.

The high-profile visit saw Dr Bedi address more than 1,000 employees, business partners, families, and community members during an interactive town hall, where she shared insights from decades of public leadership and social reform. The former UN Civilian Police Adviser, Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, and Ramon Magsaysay Awardee highlighted the importance of living with purpose, integrity, and empathy while fostering inclusive work environments.

 “Vedanta Limited is a diamond of this country, and the nation needs more institutions that use resources responsibly and drive growth with purpose,” said Dr Bedi. “Stay committed to learning, lead with empathy, and connect with people by listening and understanding before correcting. A stronger workforce needs more women, who bring a steady mindset, empathy, and the drive to deliver. Do not work for awards. Work with purpose, take ownership, and build a sense of belonging.”

Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Limited and Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Limited, highlighted the company’s progress: “Today, women make up over 23% of our team at Vedanta. We are also proud to be the first company in India to operate an all-women potline. These milestones reflect our commitment to inclusion and our intent to create meaningful change across the industry.”

C Chandru, CEO, Vedanta Jharsuguda, added: “As the first aluminium plant in India to operate an all-women potline and the first in Odisha to enable women to work night shifts, we remain committed to equal opportunities. I am grateful to Dr Bedi, whose career is symbolic of leadership backed by action, for energising our efforts.”

During her visit, Dr Bedi interacted with members of Project Subhalaxmi — Western Odisha’s largest Self-Help Group cooperative — and presented offer letters to specially-abled professionals joining the plant. She also toured the facilities and engaged with women professionals from the pioneering all-women potline, all-women power operations team, and all-women locomotive team, reinforcing the company’s focus on diversity-led growth and empowerment.