Hello everyone, I’m Roshni Agnihotri, a B.Tech graduate from Harcourt Butler Technological Institute, Kanpur. My journey with Tata Motors began in 2017 during the placement season in the final year of my graduation. During my enthusiastic preparations for placements, one fine evening I was listing my top work choices & was optimistic about them. As an ambitious move, I added “Tata Motors” as the last entry in the list —given the male-dominated nature of the manufacturing sector.
Fast forward to November 16, 2017 – The day I walked into the Tata Motors placement interview – full of determination & ready to prove that I could excel in spaces traditionally dominated by my male peers. I had even mentally prepared myself to ask why I wasn’t selected, had things not gone as planned. To my delight, I was offered the proud role at such a prestigious company ! The interviewers lauded my confidence and my in-depth understanding of my subjects & internship.
I joined the Advanced Quality Function in Jamshedpur plant and worked there for nearly 3.5 years. However, owing to family exigencies, I requested a transfer to Lucknow plant. Unfortunately, I faced a setback when I was told I wasn’t suitable for the role as it required extensive supplier visits, which the interviewer assumed me incapable of.
In 2022, I successfully attained my transfer at Lucknow plant. Eight months into my role in the Total Quality Management function I was offered a unique opportunity, as part of DEI initiatives, to lead an all women Self-Directed Team on the Rear-Axle Assembly Line. Initially, I had doubts. But I soon realized this was my moment to overcome my own barriers & also challenge others’ perceptions about a woman’s role in the manufacturing sector.
During one such discourses, I raised an important question to my Vice President-Operations (VP-O): “Sir, why should I only lead women and not men? Shouldn’t true diversity and inclusion involve men and women working together?” To my surprise, the VP-O appreciated my perspective, sparking a shift in how we approached diversity. Instead of gender-distinctive teams, we’ve begun fostering a more inclusive culture where every individual feels respected and valued.
For the past two years, I’m working in Manufacturing leading two incredible teams—Team Veerangana and Team Anand in Plant Operations—where both men and women collaborate. I feel empowered in an environment where my opinions are valued, and my colleagues and manager support my ideas. I’m grateful for the opportunities Tata Motors has provided, and I’m proud to be part of a journey that promotes inclusivity and positive change.
My advice – Never hesitate to voice your thoughts. Be bold & always remain respectful. Your courage could be the stepping stone for progress.
This blog is written by Roshni Agnihotri, Senior Manager at Rear- Axle, LKO