2025 DEI Updates from the Ambernath Plant
The Ambernath plant, located in Maharashtra, is GIL Chemicals’ oleochemicals manufacturing facility which was first operationalised in 2014.
Comprehensive Induction Programme
Our centralized induction programme is designed to integrate employees into the organisation, providing a thorough understanding of company functions, safety protocols, and operational processes. This programme consists of a one-week induction, a three-month review, and an annual follow-up to ensure continuous engagement and development.
As an integral component of the induction programme, we conduct quarterly knowledge exchange forums through which women employees are afforded the opportunity to share their insights and key learnings with the factory leadership, including the heads of Production and HR. It helps us foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
We conduct a structured, one-day training programme called NEST or New Employee Safety Training. This programme is specifically designed to familiarise new employees with the organisation's safety protocols, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and practices necessary to uphold a secure and compliant work environment.
To support the integration of new employees, we have additionally established a mentorship programme, where each new joiner is paired with a dedicated mentor for the first three months. This initiative ensures continuous guidance, fosters professional development, and facilitates a smooth transition into the organisation.
As part of our commitment to workplace safety, we also conduct safety induction sessions and provide employees with the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
We offer pick-up and drop-off services aligned with shift timings, ensuring safe travel to and from the workplace, with security personnel escorts. Women security guards are deployed across the premises, with CCTV surveillance installed for 24/7 monitoring, ensuring a secure environment for all employees.
Secure lockers are provided for employees to store personal belongings, and restrooms are available for use during breaks. We’ve also made on-site laundry services available, and dedicated washrooms are conveniently located near work areas for employees’ comfort and convenience.
Our on-site health centre operates around the clock, staffed by a qualified female doctor and nurse, offering 24/7 support for any medical needs or emergencies. In addition, emergency sanitary pads are readily available to support the well-being of female employees, ensuring a safe and caring work environment for all.
We organise monthly forums to provide updates, solicit feedback, and address employee concerns, with participation from our Factory and HR heads. A suggestion box is also made available for employees to submit anonymous feedback and suggestions, ensuring their voices are heard.
To foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture, we regularly plan team-building and cultural events, offering opportunities for employees to engage with each other and network.
Through our internal mobility programme, we also offer employees the opportunity to explore new roles within the organisation. We believe this helps in facilitating career progression, skill diversification, and alignment with evolving professional goals.
We provide assistance in finding suitable accommodation for employees near the factory to improve the commute.
We acknowledge that a supportive and inclusive work environment makes it possible for employees to maintain a balance between their professional and parental responsibilities. We also offer a dedicated on-site childcare facility, ensuring employees with young children have access to reliable care during working hours.
As part of our internal audit, we’ve made it a point to dedicate support to employees to enhance their skills and effectiveness. We’re constantly encouraging women employees to participate in external training programmes and competitive events to enhance their skills, broaden their knowledge base, and advance their career trajectories within the organisation.
We’re committed to supporting our interns in reaching their full potential by providing the necessary guidance and resources. Exceptional performance is led with an opportunity for continued employment with the organisation, promoting long-term career growth.
Additionally, we actively engage our women employees in campus hiring and other recruitment activities, to foster their confidence, provide professional growth opportunities, and empower them to contribute to the organisation’s success.
To acknowledge employees’ consistent engagement, we recognise exceptional contributions through prestigious platforms such as the Godrej Awards, providing employees with the opportunity to showcase their achievements and gain well-deserved visibility within the organisation.
We offer employees the opportunity to actively participate in a range of sports activities, contribute to events, and take on roles such as event anchoring. We believe it helps us promote a well-rounded and inclusive work culture that supports both professional development and team cohesion. We ensure the active inclusion of women employees in key committees at work, such as the Canteen and Sports Committees, inviting their valuable insights and perspectives, and fostering a more inclusive and collaborative decision-making process.
As part of our 5S initiative, we recognise and appreciate employees for their efforts by visiting their homes, accompanied by senior leaders. It allows us to acknowledge their commitment and implementation of our principles in their personal spaces, in the presence of their parents, to further boost morale and celebrate their achievements.
We offer employees the opportunity to participate in town hall sessions with the CEO, where key business strategies and updates are discussed. These forums also provide employees with a platform to raise concerns, ask questions, and engage in direct dialogue with leadership.
During visits to Ambernath, employees are provided with the opportunity to engage in exclusive one-on-one sessions with our CHRO, Poonam Burman. These sessions offer a confidential space to discuss individual concerns, provide feedback, and explore opportunities for personal and professional growth within the organisation.
2025 DEI Updates from the Valia Plant
The Valia plant, located in Maharashtra, is GIL Chemicals’ flagship manufacturing facility which was first operationalised in 1990.
In FY 2024-25, the GIL Chemicals factory in Valia became a site that recorded many key DEI initiatives.
Part of this work included conducting multi-skill training for women in technical roles, as well as a detailed induction for new employees.
We organised monthly connects between women staff and the factory head, to understand and improve work culture and better meet the needs of the women on site. We also organised meetings between women staff and the senior leadership teams during their site visits to Valia. In order not to compromise on well-being and safety, we now provide accommodation for women staff working at Valia, and also have a team of women security staff, who patrol the premises.
Text by GIL Chemicals' DEI Team.