Social

Building Safer Workplaces: Goa Hosts Health & Safety Training in Verna


The Inspectorate of Factories and Boilers, Government of Goa, organized a comprehensive two-day training programme on health and safety for employees in Verna, held across two phases on February 16 and 17, and again on February 23 and 24. The initiative was designed to enhance awareness and understanding of occupational health and safety, while encouraging the adoption of safer practices within industrial and workplace environments.

The training sessions were conducted by experienced faculty members Govind Lotlikar, Suresh Sabnis, and A. A. Dsouza, who brought their expertise to the programme through detailed presentations and interactive discussions. The sessions covered key aspects of workplace safety, including hazard identification, risk management, and the importance of maintaining a proactive approach to health and safety in daily operations.

Employees who attended the programme actively participated in the sessions, contributing to discussions and gaining valuable insights into maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. The interactive nature of the training ensured that participants could engage with real-world scenarios and better understand the practical application of safety measures.

The initiative reflects the department’s continued commitment to strengthening workplace safety standards across Goa. By equipping employees with the necessary knowledge and tools, the training programme aimed to build a culture where safety is prioritized and integrated into everyday practices.

Such efforts play a crucial role in fostering responsible work environments, reducing risks, and ensuring the well-being of employees. The programme in Verna stands as a step forward in reinforcing the importance of occupational health and safety and encouraging organizations to adopt a more safety-conscious approach in their operations.

Business

Vedanta Delivers India’s Largest Employee Equity Grant in Manufacturing Worth ₹2,500 Crore


Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

New Delhi, January 19, 2026: Vedanta Limited (NSE: VEDL), India’s leading metals, oil & gas, critical minerals, power and technology conglomerate, has delivered one of the largest employee equity initiatives in Indian manufacturing, creating a cumulative financial impact of nearly ₹2,500 crore through Employee Stock Option (ESOP) grants over the past five years.


The latest ESOP 2025 grant alone accounts for stock options worth over ₹500 crore, benefiting nearly 1,200 first-time recipients, including freshers. Vedanta’s ESOP programme is among the most inclusive in the country, covering nearly 40 per cent of its workforce across plants, functions and career levels.

With more than two decades of consistent ESOP administration, employee ownership has become a core part of Vedanta’s organisational culture. Notably, the programme extends equity participation to early-career professionals, with eligible freshers receiving allocations amounting to nearly 30 per cent of fixed pay over a standard three-year vesting cycle—making Vedanta one of the few Indian conglomerates to offer ESOPs at this level.

A defining feature of Vedanta’s ESOP structure is the allotment of shares at a deeply discounted price of Rs.1, among the lowest ESOP pricing in India. This approach reinforces shared ownership while minimising upfront investment for employees. With Vedanta’s share price touching all-time highs, the ESOP programme has enabled thousands of employees to achieve key life milestones such as home ownership, higher education, vehicle purchases and long-term financial security.

The ESOP 2022 vesting cycle delivered over 80 per cent appreciation in share value, generating more than ₹300 crore in wealth for employees, highlighting the strong link between organisational performance and employee rewards.

The programme reflects the vision of Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal to democratise wealth creation, accelerate career progression and provide equitable financial opportunities, particularly for young professionals and women. The performance-linked ESOP structure recognises sustained contributions in priority areas such as automation, digitalisation, AI-driven innovation, operational excellence and sustainability.

By extending equity ownership to engineers, plant teams and middle management—groups traditionally excluded from such rewards—Vedanta is redefining compensation practices in Indian manufacturing and reinforcing its belief that employees should directly share in the value they help create.

Human Interest

Karnataka Police Personnel to Get Leave on Birthdays & Anniversaries in Morale-Boosting Move


In a move widely being hailed as empathetic and progressive, the Karnataka Director General of Police (DGP) has issued a circular mandating leave for all police personnel on their birthdays and wedding anniversaries.

The order, dated January 29, underscores the importance of allowing officers and staff to spend quality time with their families, highlighting that emotional well-being plays a crucial role in enhancing morale, reducing stress, and improving overall job satisfaction.

According to the circular, all unit officers across the state have been directed to grant this special leave without exception. Unit heads have been made directly responsible for ensuring strict implementation of the directive, reinforcing accountability within the system.

The DGP’s note also points out that a motivated and mentally balanced police force is essential for maintaining discipline, efficiency, and professionalism in service. By acknowledging the personal sacrifices made by police personnel—who often work long hours under stressful and demanding conditions—the initiative aims to build trust, loyalty, and a stronger sense of belonging within the force.

The decision has been widely viewed as a humanitarian gesture, setting an example for other departments to prioritise employee welfare alongside operational efficiency. Many see this as a reminder that compassionate leadership can go a long way in strengthening institutions.

Social

Southeast Bank Honors 53 Meritorious Students of Employees for Academic Excellence


Southeast Bank PLC. proudly celebrated the outstanding academic achievements of 53 meritorious students, all of whom are children of the Bank’s dedicated employees. These students earned remarkable results in 2025—securing GPA-5 in the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) exams and achieving six A Grades in their O-Level examinations.

To honor their hard work and excellence, the Bank organized a special award ceremony filled with pride, joy, and celebration. The event served as a platform to not only appreciate the students but also to recognize the unwavering support of their families. Students were presented with crests, certificates, and thoughtful gifts as tokens of appreciation. The occasion aimed to uplift the morale of employees and reinforce a culture of academic encouragement and family value within the Bank.

The prestigious event was graced by the honorable Chairman of Southeast Bank, Mr. M. A. Kashem, who attended as the Chief Guest. He personally handed over the awards to the students and delivered an inspiring speech. In his remarks, he lauded the dedication, focus, and perseverance of the students and acknowledged the crucial role played by parents and families in nurturing such success.

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders. Their achievements reflect not only personal excellence but also the nurturing environment provided by their families and institutions. Southeast Bank takes pride in celebrating and supporting such brilliance,” said Mr. Kashem.

This initiative marked a historic moment for Southeast Bank as it was the first such recognition program in the Bank’s history. It was widely applauded across all levels of the organization. The celebration fostered a deep sense of pride and happiness among employees, highlighting the Bank’s genuine investment in the well-being and success of its workforce and their families.

Since taking office, Mr. M. A. Kashem has championed a number of employee-focused initiatives, including comprehensive insurance services and now this landmark felicitation program. These programs underscore the Bank’s broader commitment to employee welfare, educational development, and corporate social responsibility.

The ceremony concluded on a high note with words of encouragement for the young achievers, motivating them to continue striving for excellence in all their future academic and professional pursuits.