A. Manimekhalai Honoured Among India’s Most Inspiring Women Leaders

A. Manimekhalai, former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Union Bank of India, has been recognised as one of India’s most inspiring women leaders on the Candere Hurun India Women who are transforming industries, driving growth, and inspiring future generations of leaders.

This honour comes shortly after Manimekhalai received a prestigious award from President Droupadi Murmu for her outstanding contribution to the Indian banking sector. Together, these recognitions mark yet another milestone in her remarkable journey of leadership, resilience, and service.

Reflecting on the achievement, Manimekhalai said, “When a woman is empowered, a family is empowered, and through that, a nation is strengthened. This recognition is not just mine, but belongs to every woman who dares to dream, every colleague who believes in teamwork, and every young professional who chooses integrity over shortcuts. Leadership, for me, has always been about responsibility, not position.”

According to reports, during her tenure at Union Bank of India, Manimekhalai led a period of significant transformation. Under her guidance, the bank’s net profit rose by 243 per cent — from ₹5,232 crore to nearly ₹18,000 crore — within a short time. She also strengthened the bank’s capital base, improved asset quality, and promoted digital innovation, helping position Union Bank as one of the most forward-looking public sector banks in India.

Her leadership has always focused on inclusive growth. She actively supported women-led initiatives, improved access to credit for small entrepreneurs, and advanced financial inclusion across rural and semi-urban areas. By combining technology with a people-first approach, she modernised the bank’s operations while maintaining the trust and values that define public sector banking.

Manimekhalai’s journey — from her modest beginnings and education in a government school to leading one of India’s largest banks — continues to inspire professionals across the nation. Her story is a powerful reminder of what perseverance, integrity, and self-belief can achieve.

The Hurun India recognition adds another achievement to her distinguished career, highlighting not only her contribution to the banking sector but also her role in promoting women’s empowerment and nation-building.

In her closing message, she said, “We are all children of India. Our duty is to serve her with integrity, courage, and faith. Every act of honesty, however small, builds a stronger nation.”