Mahindra ESG team completed the 3^rd edition of SAFE - Supplier Safety and Fire Expo 2026 at Mahindra Chakan plant.

Safety is a crucial ESG pillar that holds significant implications in manufacturing where systemic approach to safety and risk management mitigates human errors from deeper system-wide issues! Importance of the subject is very evident from impact it has had on people: a) ~50k worker deaths annually due to occupational accidents in India, b) worker morale and attrition, c) public heath impact with ~4% of GDP loss due to occupational accidents; and business: a) cost savings (ROI of $4-6 per dollar invested in safety), b) productivity gains, c) rising investor interest (Inquiries about injury rates, future actions etc.) etc.

Mahindra group is committed to safety as a part of its internal operations and its supplier ecosystem and in order to reinforce this the group convened its supplier at the Chakan plant and we are pleased to announce the successful completion of the 3rd edition of SAFE - Supplier Safety and Fire Expo 2026, which was held at Mahindra Towers, Chakan, Pune, on 9th January 2026. This event is a flagship initiative as it is the first of its kind organised by an automotive OEM in the industry. The expo saw an overwhelming response, with over 130+ participants from 70+ different suppliers attending the event. The expo provided a unique platform to suppliers to explore and discuss the latest innovations in fire safety and safety management. It has provided a platform to suppliers to connect with equipment supplier and service providers at the same time.

Mr. R Veeraraghavan (Head Strategic Sourcing – Farm Equipment Sector and Common Commodities) set the context by sharing the insights over major risks in an automobile supply chain, vital role of risk management practices and how risk management practices is integrated with regular business continuity. He also highlighted the impact of non-implementation of safety management practices over vendor on boarding and further business allocations

Mr. Ankit Todi, Chief Sustainability Officer of Mahindra Group, outlined the Sustainability strategy, highlighting "Safety" as crucial in manufacturing. He emphasised on the business impact of safety beyond just compliance and its effects on costs, overall productivity, & the rising investor interest in group’s safety initiatives, engaging on key topics such as current injury rates, future actions etc. The discussion also covered the human impact of a safety accident and impact of same over the employee’s morale and attrition. An approach to develop a positive safety culture following a strong leadership commitment has been shared with supplier partners

Mr. Kondal Reddy & Mr. Jimit Joshi, core risk team shared the overall Supplier Risk Management approach, Safety Risk Audit Journey and Expectations from our supplier partners over Risk Management and ESG front

The expo was officially inaugurated with a ribbon - cutting ceremony, followed by a formal opening ceremony and exhibition, where 11 leading fire and safety equipment & service providers showcased a diverse range of essential products and services, including fire hydrants, advanced gas suppression systems, fire detection systems, firefighting PPEs, display signages and innovative safety management software systems

In addition, we are proud to announce the unveiling of the “Warehouse Fire and Safety Guideline for Suppliers” during EXPO. This guideline is designed to provide our suppliers with comprehensive guidelines to ensure a clear framework for fire safety protocols in warehouse operations. It outlines key measures for fire prevention, detection, and suppression, as well as safe evacuation practices. Further, as part of “Learning through sharing”, the four most improved suppliers shared their journey on fire and safety improvements and advantages of it.

The event was a grand success, and we would like to also thank Mahindra Tower, Chakan Admin manager Mr. Inamdar Tabrej & his team, Safety In-charge Mr. Samadhan and Security Manager Mr. Raju Patil & his team for flawless arrangements, smooth supplier entry and food arrangements. Special thanks to all the members of Sourcing strategy & Improvements team for their efforts and coordination to make this event successful.