Ashok Leyland, part of the Hinduja Group and a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in India, launched two new TV commercials on International Women's Day. The first features a female protagonist driving its LCV, BADA DOST, and the second aligns with the 'Aali Re' anthem for the Mumbai Indians women's team, for which Ashok Leyland is the principal partner. These campaigns aim to promote diversity and inclusion and encourage women to pursue their aspirations.
The company has previously introduced initiatives like the 'Women-centric Cabin Trim Line' at its Pantnagar plant and an 'All Women production Line' at its Hosur plant to support gender diversity in manufacturing. Ashok Leyland has invested in training women in manufacturing skills and placed them in charge of the production of a new engine line.
Additionally, Ashok Leyland collaborated with the Delhi Government's Mission Parivartan to train 180 women as bus drivers, many of whom now work with the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). Last year, 100 women received specialized driving training to handle various terrains and conditions.
Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO of Ashok Leyland, speaking on the announcement said ““At Ashok Leyland, diversity and inclusion has always been a priority, and we have been providing equal opportunities irrespective of gender and ethnicity. Through these new campaigns, we hope to demonstrate how, in a society where gender roles are rigidly prescribed and women are frequently overlooked, these women are shattering the stereotype and achieving their goals by firmly holding onto their belief of "Koi Manzil Door Nahin. We are also proud to be the principal partner of the Mumbai Indians Women’s Team for the second year in a row. At Ashok Leyland, we recognize the importance of establishing a better gender balance, and initiatives like this create a more inclusive ecosystem."
Raja Radhakrishnan, President & Head – HR, Ashok Leyland shared, “At Ashok Leyland we believe in empowering women in our effort to foster a fair and equitable society. Our commitment is to spark positive change and foster equal opportunities for everyone by challenging deep-seated conventions and stereotypes, particularly in sectors historically dominated by men.”