*BALCO’s Transgender Employees Outshine Beyond Workplace in Sports*
त्रिनेत्र टाइम्स कोरबा ****//** At BALCO, inclusion is reflected not only in policies but also in everyday opportunities that enable employees to engage, compete, and grow beyond defined professional roles. This spirit was evident when transgender employees from BALCO participated in a national-level sports competition in Raipur, organised by Mithwa Sankalp Samithi, an organisation dedicated to uplifting the transgender community, with support from the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and the Samaj Kalyan Vibhaag, at Swami Vivekanand Kota Stadium. Competing alongside more than 300 participants from eight states, they represented both personal aspiration and the organisation’s evolving culture of inclusivity.
Ayesha, working as Security Guard at BALCO secured first place in the 400m race, shared, “For me, sports is not about medals but about visibility, confidence, and belonging. Stepping onto the track allowed me to see myself beyond labels and responsibilities. Competitions such as these help individuals realise that their capabilities extend far beyond the boundaries they once believed existed.”
Kuleshwar (Security Guard, BALCO) finished as the second runner-up in the 100m race, noted, “BALCO regularly organises sports initiatives, creating a safe and encouraging space for expression. Events like the BALCO Premier League for cricket and other internal tournaments bring employees together on common ground, where teamwork takes precedence. For transgender employees, these moments hold particular meaning, as they offer acceptance through participation and strengthen bonds built on shared effort. I am grateful to BALCO for building confidence in us through such initiatives.”
Alka Nagarwade (Security Guard at BALCO), who achieved third place in the 800m event, highlighted, “Platforms like these help in building confidence. As I have begun participating in company and external competitions, I have developed resilience, enabling me to embrace challenges with greater stride. The encouragement to participate, practise, and perform has contributed to a stronger sense of self-worth. I enjoyed every metre of my 800m race, thanks to BALCO and everyone who has helped me build my self-esteem.”
These diverse and determined voices reflect BALCO’s people-centric approach to employee engagement. Inclusion becomes meaningful when individuals feel seen, respected, and involved in collective experiences. Sports initiatives play a significant role in this journey, offering employees from varied backgrounds the opportunity to interact, collaborate, and celebrate each other’s strengths. Through structured tournaments like the BALCO Premier League, Badminton Tournament, Volleyball Premier League, and open participation platforms, the organisation enables employees to step beyond routine roles and rediscover their potential.
These achievements of BALCO’s transgender employees at the national competition reflect more than sporting success. They represent a workplace culture that steadily nurtures confidence, participation, and mutual respect. By supporting avenues like these, BALCO continues to foster an environment where every individual feels valued, participates with dignity, and confidently pursues personal interests.
