Overcoming Barriers: Tata Steel’s West Bokaro Division empowers differently-abled employees

December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Tata Steel’s West Bokaro Division has taken significant strides in promoting inclusivity and diversity under its “Empowering the Capable” initiative. On August 13, 2024, the division appointed four differently-abled employees as CCTV operators in its Security Department, marking a milestone in creating an inclusive workplace.

The recruitment process was initiated by the division’s Human Resources (HR) Department in collaboration with Atypical Advantage. With support from Tata Steel Technical Services Limited and Tata Steel Support Services Limited, a special advertisement was issued to invite applications. To ensure an inclusive and accessible workplace, the Security Department made necessary arrangements, such as accessible restrooms, ramps at office entrances, basic furniture, and housing facilities.

The selected employees – Prem Sharma, Mohammad Hashim Hasan, Angad Kumar Singh, and Abhilash Sharma – joined on August 13, 2024. After completing extensive training, they began their duties as CCTV operators on September 3, 2024. The training included site visits to mines and plants, familiarization with CCTV installations, and hands-on experience in daily control room operations.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Anurag Dixit, General Manager, West Bokaro Division, Tata Steel, said, “The recruitment of differently-abled employees in the CCTV Control Room symbolizes our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. These employees have already made significant contributions, and we remain dedicated to supporting their growth and development.”

Sharing his experience, Mohammad Hashim Hasan from Kolkata said, “Getting a job at Tata Steel feels like a dream come true. This is my first experience working outside my hometown.

Prem Sharma from Dhanbad expressed, “I have seen Tata Steel since childhood. Though I’ve worked in other companies, receiving an offer from Tata Steel was a moment of immense pride and happiness.”

Angad Kumar Singh from Jamshedpur added, “After completing my B.Tech and working for five years in different organizations, I finally got the chance to join this prestigious company, following in the footsteps of many family members.”

Abhilash Sharma, a mechanical engineer from Bhagalpur, Bihar, shared, “Being differently-abled, I often found only temporary jobs. Tata Steel has given me permanent employment, which is a significant step towards a secure future for me and my family.”

The new CCTV operators have quickly proven their capabilities, with their efforts recently playing a crucial role in solving a theft case. The division plans to extend similar opportunities to differently-abled individuals in other departments, furthering its mission of inclusivity.

Currently, 6% of the West Bokaro Division’s workforce represents diverse groups, including women and transgender employees. This initiative is a significant step toward Tata Steel’s goal of achieving 20% workforce diversity by 2025.