Synopsis
On International Women's Day, Gautam Adani emphasized the urgency of action, advocating for a future where women can achieve their dreams. He shared personal reflections on the influential women in his life and the importance of gender equity in leadership roles.Key Takeaways
- Importance of Gender Equity: Gautam Adani highlights the need for gender equity and empowerment of women in all sectors.
- Influential Women: He reflects on the women who have shaped his understanding of strength and leadership.
- Commitment to Change: Adani expresses a personal commitment to creating pathways for women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
- Impact of Adani Foundation: The foundation has significantly improved the lives of millions of women and girls.
- Celebrating Achievements: Initiatives like 'Lakhpati Didis' acknowledge women's financial independence and contributions to society.
Ahmedabad, March 8 (NationPress) It's time to intensify efforts -- aptly chosen as the theme for the 2025 International Women’s Day -- not merely because it’s the right business strategy or a trending social issue, but because wives, daughters, and granddaughters deserve a future defined only by the breadth of their dreams, stated Gautam Adani, the Chairperson of the Adani Group, this past Saturday.
Stressing that an India that genuinely welcomes all its daughters is an India ready to take the lead globally, the billionaire entrepreneur reflected on the myriad women – from Banaskantha to corporate boardrooms – who have influenced his life.
“My perception of gender equity was not shaped in boardrooms or through policy discussions; it was cultivated at home, among extraordinary women whose strength and insight have significantly shaped my worldview,” Gautam Adani expressed in a heartfelt LinkedIn message commemorating International Women’s Day.
“Now, with three beautiful granddaughters, this commitment feels more urgent than ever. International Women's Day is not just a date; it serves as a poignant reminder of our achievements and the journey that remains,” remarked the Chairperson of the Adani Group.
Growing up in the arid landscapes of Banaskantha, “I witnessed my mother convert scarcity into sustenance and adversity into unity. She was the quiet force that kept our large family intact, embodying unwavering love, courage, and resilience. In her, I recognized the essence of quiet leadership, selflessness, and graceful endurance,” Gautam Adani underscored.
Later, “my wife Priti became the cornerstone of our foundation's initiatives, impacting millions of lives throughout India.”
“Observing her interact with women in remote villages, discussing transformative issues affecting their families, and learning from the sanghinis of the Adani Foundation who guide pregnant mothers on caring for themselves and their upcoming children, has deepened my understanding of true empowerment,” he shared in the post.
He finds it inspiring to meet young girls in Mundra who, thanks to the Group’s educational programs, now aspire to become engineers, or to witness the resolve of women entrepreneurs in Godda (in Jharkhand) who have moved from daily wage work to owning thriving businesses.
Years ago, during a visit to one of the port projects, Gautam Adani noticed the lack of women in operational and leadership positions.
This absence was not due to a lack of ability but rather the absence of pathways into these traditionally male-dominated areas.
“This realization ignited a personal commitment to effect change. I began asking different questions in our meetings: ‘Are our policies truly family-friendly?’ ‘Who are we mentoring for future leadership?’ These were not mere statistics; each number represented a life, a dream, a future leader whose perspective would enhance our initiatives,” stated the Group head.
Today, as “I walk through our offices and see senior women spearheading our technology teams, as I visit our renewable energy sites and observe women engineers tackling complex challenges, and as I participate in foundation events where rural women are establishing prosperous businesses, I am filled with immense pride,” Gautam Adani noted.
To date, the Adani Foundation has positively impacted millions of girls and women, reinforcing its commitment to fostering sustainable social change.
“Additionally, our 'Lakhpati Didis' initiative honors over 1,000 women who have gained financial independence through enhanced entrepreneurial skills. By empowering women to be self-sufficient, we are contributing to the creation of a gender-inclusive society where women's contributions are acknowledged and appreciated,” concluded Gautam Adani.
