CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI) organized a lecture and panel discussion on ‘Inspiring Inclusivity in the Workplace’ on 15 March 2024 in the NEERI Auditorium. The famous mountaineer Mrs. BimlaDeoskar delivered the lecture. Eminent experts Mrs. AanchalGoyal, Additional Commissioner, Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), Dr. Radha Munje, Former Dean, IndiraGandhi Government Medical College & Hospital, Dr. AtulVaidya, Director, CSIR-NEERI, Dr. Bigyan Verma, Director, Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Nagpur, Prof. Pramod Padole, Director, VNIT, Nagpur, Ms. MadhuriPendharkar, Director of Engineering, Fendahl CTRM Technology and Dr. (Mrs) Atya Kapley, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NEERI shared their experiences and insights during the panel discussion.
Mrs. Bimla Deoskar briefed about her inspiring journeys and achievements in the field of mountaineering. She informed that her journey was fraught with challenges, both physical and mental, but her determination and passion played crucial roles in her success in various mountaineering expeditions.
During the panel discussion, Mrs. Goyal addressed both cultural and structural aspects to create an inclusive work culture where men and women feel valued, respected, and empowered. Encouraging women to take on more responsibilities empowers them to develop their skills, build confidence, and advance in their careers, she added. Dr. Vaidya said that mindset change is indeed crucial for achieving women’s inclusivity at workplace. We need to promote science in rural areas as scientific knowledge and skills help in women empowerment, he added. Dr. Verma stated that the growing number of women in business schools suggests a greater pool of talent and potential future leaders in various industries. There has been a noticeable increase in the representation of women in corporate leadership positions in recent years, he said. Dr. Munje pointed out thatwomen are increasingly represented in the medical field, but certain specialties such as neurosurgery and cardiology continue to have lower levels of female representation. Ms. Pendharkarbriefed about POSH (Prevention and Sexual Harassment) policy and Open-Door/Open Feedback policy aimed at promoting a supportive and inclusive work environment for women. The role of women in increasing GDP is significant, she added. Dr. Padole remarked that the enrollment of girls in engineering courses like mining represents a positive step towards creating a more diverse, inclusive, and innovative engineering workforce.
The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Atya Kapley, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NEERI. Prakash Kumbhare, Sr. Principal Scientist, CSIR-NEERI proposed the vote of thanks. Dr. Debishree Khan, Sr. Scientist, CSIR-NEERI conducted the proceedings.