ISA Gender Diversity Award 2025 honours Jindal Stainless’ Laxmi Murmu

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

NEW DELHI, SEPTEMBER 10, 2025

The Indian Steel Association (ISA) has awarded the prestigious Gender Diversity Award 2025 to Laxmi Murmu from Jindal Stainless’ Jajpur plant. The honour was bestowed by Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries & Steel, Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, at the 6th edition of the ISA Steel Conclave held in New Delhi. Murmu was recognised for her exemplary leadership, inclusive mindset, and significant contributions toward fostering an equitable workplace in the demanding environment of a manufacturing plant.

Murmu has been an integral part of Jindal Stainless, India’s largest stainless steel manufacturer, for the past seven years. Her unwavering determination and commitment to learning have propelled her into roles typically dominated by men in the manufacturing sector, such as operating heavy machinery, including excavators, JCBs, cranes, and forklifts. During her tenure at Jindal Stainless’ Jajpur plant, she has garnered numerous accolades for outstanding performance in safety and operations. Her exceptional dedication, discipline, and work ethic have established her as a highly skilled and dependable professional in a predominantly male environment. Beyond her operational responsibilities, Ms. Murmu is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, inspiring other women to pursue careers in the industrial sector.

As a mother of three and the sole breadwinner of her family, Murmu has consistently defied societal norms to provide financial support for her loved ones. Her resilience and determination serve as a beacon of inspiration for women aspiring to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Congratulating the awardee, Abhyuday Jindal, Managing Director of Jindal Stainless, said, “It fills me with immense pride to see Ms. Laxmi being recognised by ISA for her remarkable journey—one characterised by perseverance, resilience, and a relentless commitment to excellence. At Jindal Stainless, we remain steadfast in our mission to create a progressive workplace where diversity and equality are not mere ideals but are embedded in our daily practices. We are excited to see more women take the lead in this sector, inspired by Ms. Murmu’s example.”

In her acceptance speech, Murmu said, “This is a proud moment for me, and I view it as a triumph for all women who continue to lead with courage despite the societal barriers they face. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues and mentors at Jindal Stainless for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in enabling me to progress in my journey with strength and self-belief.”

Laxmi Murmu becomes the third woman from Jindal Stainless to be recognised by ISA, following Minu Mohanta’s and Sagarika Soren’s acknowledgements in 2023 and 2024, respectively. The 6th edition of the ISA Steel Conclave was attended by several government dignitaries, whose leadership continues to shape the industry’s growth and global competitiveness, along with industry leaders who are driving the sector’s future.