‘Green' plant
Hyundai Motor India is one of the greenest car manufacturing plants, which has also been recognised by the Government of Tamil Nadu. "We are a zero discharge plant as the used water is treated in our huge RO treatment facilities and the treated water is reused for production. Even the sewage water is treated separately and is used for gardening," Sarangarajan says. With the help of treated sewage water, HMI has developed a Green Belt inside the plant complex with lawn and flowering shrubs along with 22,000 trees and 40,000 saplings. Most of the trees are fruit bearing apart from Shelter and Ornamental trees. HMI has even developed a nursery within the premises to meet our entire requirement of tree saplings and shrubs.

"Besides, we have developed several energy saving initiatives to reduce consumption, including a heat recovery system. We use solar heaters, T5 lamps and Led lights at appropriate locations to reduce power consumption. The plant is designed such that it lets in a lot of natural light and air, which again reduces our dependence on electricity for utilities during the day. In terms of air quality, we have 24 hour online monitoring systems to continuously detect emissions which are also monitored by the pollution control board live." Hyundai plant has one of the biggest rain water harvesting facility within its premises. The rain water that is stored in four ponds in the factory can take care of HMI's water requirements for more than a month! (In fact, your Editor has personally visited the HMI plant and has first hand witnessed the safety and greenery initiatives).

Approach to people management
Sarangarajan believes people management forms the core of HMI's existence as a well managed team can exceed expectations. "We have a well rounded approach towards our employees on the shop floor. We have recognised an apolitical union who have a proven majority and we maintain an open channel of communication with them. All issues are discussed and deliberated in a transparent manner. We also have one of the best in class welfare measures. That apart, a full time social worker works with employees and their families to help them achieve a healthy work-life balance."

For executives, HMI has well-defined roles and responsibilities which clearly define what each person is expected to do. "We have also started systems like internal job rotation, internal job postings, and opportunities for higher education etc, which help in keeping the employee engaged and motivated. Also, we have created various programs like Global Professional Program, Global Exchange Program, Global Technical Training and Future Leaders Program to groom high potential employees from various business divisions to enhance their knowledge and take on higher roles in the organisation."
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