‘Flames of Change’: Tata Steel inducts 23 women firefighters

Jamshedpur: In a major move towards gender equality, Tata Steel has inducted 23 women into its fire services.The initiative, ‘Flames of Change', marked a significant shift towards inclusivity and diversity. Following about 16 months of rigorous in-house training at the Fire and Security Training Centre, the candidates are now deployed at the West Plant Fire Station and Tata Main Hospital in Jamshedpur, prepared to handle all emergencies for the plant and its residents.The training blended classroom instructions with practical experience, providing a well-rounded education in fire-fighting techniques. It was followed by an external 16-week certification course in collaboration with the Airport Authority of India (AAI).Further, to alleviate the nervousness of some of the trainees, the company invited Harshini Kanhekar, the country's first woman firefighter from Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), to motivate them and address their concerns.The women trainees are not only diverse in terms of their social backgrounds but also their professional and educational experiences."The move symbolises the company's commitment to transforming the cultural landscape of fire services dominated by men," said Arvind Kumar Sinha, chief security and brand protection of Tata Steel.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Women's Day wishes, messages and quotes !