Bhubaneswar, 11 February 2026: Reinforcing their commitment to inclusive growth andoperational excellence, Tata Power–led Odisha DISCOMs are celebrating International Day ofWomen and Girls in Science 2026 by highlighting the critical role women professionals play acrosstheir power distribution companies (DISCOMs). From metering and network operations to trainingand quality assurance, women engineers and technicians are strengthening reliability, transparencyand consumer-centric service delivery across Odisha’s electricity distribution landscape.As leading distribution utilities, Odisha DISCOMs recognise that robust DISCOM performancedepends on skilled talent on the ground. Aligned with Tata Power’s group-wide focus on building afuture-ready and inclusive workforce, they have consistently promoted women’s participation incore distribution functions through focused skilling, exposure to field operations and structuredcareer progression across TPCODL, TPSODL, TPNODL and TPWODL.They have taken various initiatives under CSR to achieve full and equal access to and participationin science for women and girls. Key programmes include specialised training for female ITI studentsacross Odisha, the Roshni vocational training programme to enhance employability, the all-womensub-division of TPWODL demonstrating women-led power distribution operations, and the NuaAarambha initiative supporting women professionals returning to the workforce after careerbreaks.Empowering Women in Core DISCOM OperationsA key milestone in this journey has been the operationalisation of Odisha’s first all-women metertesting laboratories within Odisha DISCOMs’ area of operations. Managed entirely by trainedwomen engineers and technicians, these facilities ensure the accuracy and reliability of smartmeters while upholding regulatory compliance and strengthening consumer confidence – all ofwhich are fundamental to efficient and transparent power distribution.In addition, women professionals are increasingly contributing across other critical DISCOMinstitutions, including the Power Distribution Training Centre (PDTC) and NABL-accredited metertesting laboratories. These platforms equip women engineers with hands-on experience in distribution technologies, safety systems, smart metering and quality assurance, enabling them todirectly support network reliability, loss reduction and improved consumer service.Through such initiatives, Odisha DISCOMs are strengthening the technical backbone of itsoperations while creating meaningful opportunities for women to lead in science and engineeringroles that directly impact day-to-day electricity supply and customer satisfaction.Voices from the Field Sharing a leadership perspective from the DISCOM ecosystem, Ms. Neha Pandey, Head of Group –Business Excellence & Customer Services, TPNODL, said, “As an electrical engineer, I have witnessedfirst-hand how technology and innovation, coupled with a customer-focused approach, can transform both the industry and society. My progression from a graduate trainee to leading Business Excellence and Customer Services at TPNODL has reinforced my belief that true innovation stems from blending engineering rigor with a customer-centric and national development perspective. I am proud to spearhead initiatives that enhance service reliability, foster continuous improvement, and nurture enduring consumer trust in the power utility of Odisha.”Sharing her experience, Leena Patel, Executive Engineer – Meter Testing Lab, TPSODL, said,“Working in an all-women meter testing lab has been a defining experience for me. We handleprecision testing and quality assurance of meters that directly impact consumer trust. The responsibility is immense, but so is the pride. TPSODL has created an environment where women engineers can lead with confidence, continuously upgrade their technical skills and contribute to the power sector in meaningful ways.”Sharing her experience, Tanuja Behera, Superintending Engineer, MMG, TPCODL, said, “Being part of the power sector as a woman engineer has reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of STEM. In a role that demands technical depth, strategic thinking and decisive leadership, I see every challenge as an opportunity to innovate and grow. At TPCODL, women are encouraged to lead from the front, strengthen their expertise and inspire the next generation of girls to pursue STEM careers with confidence and purpose. Most importantly, every decision we take is guided by our commitment to deliver reliable, safe and efficient power services that put our consumers first.”Anamika Bohidar, SDO, All Women Electrical Subdivision, Uditnagar, Rourkela, TPWODL, added, “It is important for an organization to create an inclusive environment for women in technical roles as it not only ensures equality but also improves the performance and sustainability of the distribution system. Despite stereotypes, continuous learning and teamwork have enabled strong network performance. TPWODL promotes women in leadership, while effective time management and visible women leaders inspire the next generation to pursue careers in energy.”Odisha DISCOMs’ focus on women in science goes beyond representation to building sustainable capabilities within their operations. Women engineers are actively engaged in smart metering implementation, network maintenance, testing and calibration, safety initiatives and consumer interface functions. Structured training programmes, leadership development initiatives and supportive workplace policies further enable women professionals to contribute effectively in technically demanding distribution roles.By integrating diversity with operational excellence, the DISCOMs continue to demonstrate how inclusive organizations can deliver stronger outcomes for consumers and communities alike. Theseinitiatives support the company’s broader objective of building efficient, technology-driven and resilient power distribution systems across Odisha. Through continued investment in skills,infrastructure and inclusive practices, the company remains committed to enabling women to lead,innovate and power progress across the state.
Tata Power–led Odisha DISCOMs Celebrate the Women behind Smarter and Reliable Power Distribution in Odisha
