Balconagar (Adiniwasi). Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), a renowned aluminium producer and subsidiary of Vedanta Aluminium, marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with impactful initiatives emphasizing inclusivity, menstrual health, and empowerment. The event, held at Divya Jyoti School for differently-abled students in Korba, Chhattisgarh, benefitted over 100 specially-abled adolescents and featured active participation from BALCO’s employee volunteers.
Empowering Through Education and Sustainable Practices
A key highlight of the event was the ‘Stitch My Own Pad’ campaign, which taught adolescents the skill of stitching reusable cloth pads, offering an eco-friendly solution to menstrual health management. The session also included open discussions to debunk myths, address societal taboos, and promote healthy practices surrounding menstruation.
To further support education for specially-abled adolescents, BALCO introduced innovative braille-based learning modules, ensuring that even those with visual impairments could access critical information about menstrual health. The program fostered an inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging confidence and awareness among participants.
Celebrating Diversity Through Cultural Exchange
The event also featured cultural performances, where BALCO employees and students came together to share inspiring stories and experiences. A particularly moving moment was a synchronized dance performance by the students, showcasing their extraordinary talent and determination despite physical challenges.
Leadership Speaks on Inclusivity and Empowerment
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO and Director of BALCO, stated:
“At BALCO, we are dedicated to fostering inclusivity not only in our workplace but also within the broader community. We aim to empower individuals by recognizing their unique abilities and breaking down barriers to create equal opportunities. Initiatives like these are a step toward building a more equitable and inclusive future.”
Sharing his experience as a volunteer, Mr. Dipam Nath, Assistant Manager at BALCO, remarked:
“Volunteering at BALCO has been an inspiring journey, consistently teaching me the value of contributing to meaningful causes. My visit to Divya Jyoti School was particularly humbling, as I witnessed students transform challenges into strengths. Their dance performance, executed flawlessly despite hearing impairments, showcased their exceptional resilience and spirit. It was an unforgettable experience.”
BALCO’s Commitment to Inclusivity
BALCO has long been committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. From inclusive hiring practices to sensitization workshops and training programs, the company actively fosters understanding and mutual respect. The organization’s workforce now includes three specially-abled individuals and 18 transgender employees, demonstrating its dedication to breaking barriers and building a future rooted in equality.
Through initiatives like these, BALCO continues to inspire and lead in creating a community that celebrates diversity, nurtures talent, and drives meaningful change.
