Mumbai, Oct 8 (NationPress) A. Manimekhalai, the former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank of India, has been celebrated as one of India’s most inspiring women leaders in the ‘Candere Hurun India Women Leaders List 2025’. This accolade acknowledges the visionary and impactful women who are reshaping industries, fostering growth, and motivating the next generation of innovators.

This recognition follows Manimekhalai receiving a prestigious award from President Droupadi Murmu for her remarkable contributions to the Indian banking sector, marking yet another significant milestone in her journey characterized by resilience, leadership, and purpose.

“When a woman is empowered, a family is empowered, and through that, a nation is strengthened. This recognition is not just mine, but belongs to every woman who dares to dream, every colleague who believes in teamwork, and every young professional who chooses integrity over shortcuts. Leadership, for me, has always been about responsibility, not position,” Manimekhalai emphasized.

During her time at Union Bank of India, she spearheaded a transformative period, achieving a staggering 243% increase in net profit, soaring from Rs 5,232 crore to nearly Rs 18,000 crore in a short time.

Additionally, she fortified the bank's capital base, enhanced asset quality, and drove digital innovation, positioning Union Bank among India’s most progressive public sector institutions.

Manimekhalai’s leadership philosophy has always been rooted in inclusive growth. She has championed women-led initiatives, broadened access to credit for small entrepreneurs, and promoted financial inclusion across rural and semi-urban areas in India.

Her commitment to technology-driven systems and a people-first approach has modernized processes while maintaining the trust and integrity central to public sector banking.

Her journey—from a modest upbringing and education in a government school to leading one of India’s largest banks—continues to motivate countless professionals nationwide. Her narrative is a testament to the power of perseverance, purpose, and self-belief.

The Hurun India recognition adds another accolade to her illustrious career, highlighting her contributions not just to banking but also to the broader narrative of women's empowerment and nation-building.

“We are all children of India,” Manimekhalai concluded. “Our duty is to serve her with integrity, courage, and faith. Every act of honesty, however small, builds a stronger nation.”