by Ramya R Dodamani, Geologist
Mining has always been seen as a demanding and challenging profession, often shaped by the belief that it is primarily suited to men. Even today, when women have made remarkable progress in many fields, their presence in the global mining industry remains limited.
In my opinion, this gap is not due to a lack of ability or interest, but largely because of long-standing cultural perceptions and fewer opportunities available to women in core mining roles in India. The industry itself has evolved over time—modern mining is not only about physical labor; it is deeply rooted in science, research, technology, and innovation. Yet, the perception of mining as a male-dominated sector continues to influence career choices, workplace structures, and professional growth for women.
Understanding these challenges is important not to highlight limitations, but to recognize potential. When women are given equal opportunities, exposure, and support, they contribute with the same dedication, skill, and leadership as their male counterparts. Encouraging women’s participation in mining is therefore not just about inclusion; it is about strengthening the industry for the future. By reshaping mindsets and recognizing mining as a scientific and knowledge-driven profession, we can create a more balanced, resilient, and globally competitive mining sector in India—one where talent and passion define success, not gender.
My journey into the mining industry
My journey into the mining industry was not accidental; it was born out of challenge, determination, and self-belief. During my bachelor’s degree, geology was the subject in which I scored the least. This became a turning point. I took it as a personal challenge and decided to pursue my master’s degree in geology; I was determined to transform my weakness into strength. During my master’s program, a defining opportunity came through my dissertation work, which I carried out at SMIORE Ltd, Karnataka, India. The hands-on learning during my internship and the exposure to real-time mining operations deeply fascinated me and inspired my dream of becoming a mining geologist. My interactions with mining professionals and the belief that determination, skill, and passion matter far more than gender encouraged me to move forward with that dream without hesitation.
Soon after completing my master’s degree in geology, I was fortunate to get an opportunity at KSMCL, a multi-mineral mining company in Karnataka. Here, my learning expanded far beyond textbooks. I consciously chose not to restrict myself to assigned roles. Instead, I continuously sought knowledge, asked questions, and closely observed processes. I have been privileged to learn immensely from my colleagues and seniors and their guidance helped shape my professional approach. Throughout this journey, I built a strong professional network and developed a deeper understanding of mining geology, operations, and real-world challenges.
During moments of self-doubt, I found strength in reading about women who had carved their own paths in geoscience and mining. Women like Cynthia Carroll, Gina Rinehart, Jennifer Maki, Sandhya Rasakatla, Yogeshwari Rane, Sarita Dange, Sudipta Sengupta and many more broke barriers, challenged stereotypes, and proved that excellence has no gender. Their journeys became my source of motivation and resilience, reminding me that every field evolves when courage meets commitment. Among these women, Dr Sudipta Sengupta stands out as my greatest inspiration.
Today, I choose to continue my journey in mining geology with confidence and purpose, determined to build my own path, to contribute meaningfully to the field, and inspire others to do the same. I desire to analyze real-world problems in mining and explore innovative, practical solutions that can bridge science and sustainability. What began as a challenge has now become my purpose, and my commitment to mining geology continues to grow stronger with time and experience.
Shifting perceptions and overcoming barriers
Discussing the challenges of women’s participation in the industry starts with outlining some of the reasons women might not perceive mining as a career option. Lack of female role models in leading positions and lower percentage of employment after graduation add to the general lack of exposure and the perception of mining as a male-dominated sector. Additionally, safety concerns lead to families discouraging pursuing mining as a career. This is especially true in India.
As part of the industry, women face further barriers: hiring committees often assume women are unfit for field work due to limited physical strength and requirements for extended shift work in remote areas. Smaller mines find it challenging to provide separate washrooms, rest halls, emergency transport, and other facilities. Women are often restricted to lab and compliance work roles and that lack of field knowledge and the limited mentorship fuel further self-doubts.
The path to change starts with women realizing that they shouldn’t limit themselves. I believe perceptions can be shifted by creating equal opportunities, encouraging the participation of women in mining programs, and establishing safe work environments. Community acceptance can be helped by showcasing women in leading roles.
In the face of barriers within the industry, women must get stronger mentally as well as physically. Challenges can be overcome by enhancing practical and theoretical knowledge, by developing leadership skills, and excelling in technologically driven tools. Filling the gap between academic theory and real mining operations is essential; internship schemes and collaborations between industry and universities for research-based projects can be one way to address that.
Conclusion
In the past, cultural mindsets often acted as barriers for women in mining and geosciences. Today, while significant progress has been made, as exemplified by my own experiences at Karnataka, women still face limited opportunities rather than limitations in capability.
By ensuring equal access to opportunities, training, leadership roles, and decision-making platforms in India, we can strengthen the sector and position it to compete confidently at a global level. The mining industry must be recognized not as a male dominated field, but as a scientific, systematic, and research-oriented sector that thrives on innovation, skill, and interdisciplinary knowledge. When diversity is embraced, mining evolves into a stronger, more sustainable industry that benefits from varied perspectives, advanced research, and responsible resource development. Empowering women in mining is not just about inclusion. It is about building a future-ready industry driven by science, collaboration, and excellence.
For more information: Get in touch with Ramya on LinkedIn
