### Hindustan Zinc Announces Transgender Education Policy

: Hindustan Zinc Limited, India's largest zinc producer, announced a groundbreaking policy to support the higher education of its transgender employees. The policy, launched during the company's Pride Month celebrations, offers financial assistance of up to INR 1 lakh for professional courses to transgender employees who have been with the company for at least 18 months.

This initiative is part of Hindustan Zinc’s comprehensive set of inclusive policies, aimed at promoting skill enhancement and capacity building. The policy extends to business partners across all operational locations, reflecting the company's commitment to professional development and inclusivity.

The announcement was made on the #Zinclusion platform, featuring a panel discussion on ‘Challenging Barriers, Fostering Inclusivity,’ with Chairperson Priya Agarwal Hebbar, CEO Arun Misra, and DEIB leader Zainab Patel. Parents of transgender employees shared their pride, highlighting the company's supportive environment.

Hindustan Zinc employs 16 transgender individuals in mainstream roles, a significant representation in the traditionally male-dominated metals and mining sector. The company’s Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) framework includes policies like Gender Reaffirmation Leaves, Parenthood Policy for LGBTQIA+ individuals, and Housing Policy for transgender employees. These efforts have made Hindustan Zinc a leader in D&I practices in India.

Priya Agarwal Hebbar expressed her joy, emphasizing the company’s commitment to empowering transgender employees through education and skill development. Transgender employees like Ragini and Yashwardhan shared their positive experiences, highlighting the supportive and inclusive work environment at Hindustan Zinc.

Hindustan Zinc aims to achieve 30% workforce diversity by 2025 and continues to set industry standards for inclusivity and sustainability.

#DiversityAndInclusion #Metals #PeoplePractices #DEI #TransgenderHiring