Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry
For over 132 years, Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) operated without a single woman in its underground rescue team. That changed when 24-year-old Ambati Mounika broke through gender stereotypes, becoming the first woman in SCCL’s history to join this elite unit.
Hailing from a lower-middle-class neighborhood in Khammam, Telangana, Mounika grew up in a society where mining was considered a man’s job. Even her family and relatives advised her to pursue a safer career. But she remained determined.
A Passion for Mining Engineering
Mounika’s fascination with mining led her to Kothagudem College, where she pursued a degree in mining engineering. She didn’t stop there—she underwent intense training at Nagpur’s elite mine rescue program, where she mastered life-saving skills in hazardous conditions, including:
• Rescuing miners trapped in collapsed tunnels
• Handling underground fires
• Managing methane leaks and gas explosions
This rigorous training prepared her for the toughest challenges underground.
Gaining Experience in Hazardous Environments
Before joining SCCL, Mounika honed her skills at Hindustan Zinc, where she worked in hazardous mining conditions. This hands-on experience gave her the confidence to take on her groundbreaking role at Singareni Collieries.
Her journey was not easy, but she had the unwavering support of her father, an electrician. “Since childhood, Mounika has been fearless and excellent in her studies,” he proudly shares.
Singareni Collieries Leads the Way in Gender Inclusivity
SCCL is setting new benchmarks in gender inclusivity by dedicating two mines exclusively for women workers. Mounika’s entry into the underground rescue team symbolizes a progressive shift in India’s mining sector, proving that women can excel in every field.
A Message of Strength and Determination
Mounika’s story is an inspiration for countless women aspiring to break gender norms. She believes that women are not limited to the light—they belong wherever the world needs them.
Her journey redefines courage, proving that mining is not just a man’s world. As she gears up for her next rescue mission, Mounika continues to inspire a new generation of women to follow their passion—no matter the obstacles.
Conclusion
Ambati Mounika’s success marks a historic milestone in India’s mining industry. Her perseverance, skill, and determination have shattered long-held stereotypes, opening doors for more women to enter male-dominated professions.
Her story is a testament to fearlessness, resilience, and breaking barriers, reminding us that true courage knows no gender.
