Top CSR Projects in Ladakh
The Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh is known for its arid yet beautiful mountains, picturesque passes and Buddhist monasteries. The UT is popular among the bikers who ride all the way from the plains to experience the scenic yet rock roads in the region. The UT because of its unique topography is considered to be an eco-sensitive zone. As a result of this, the development of the area is stagnated for many years.
With more focus and innovations in sustainable development, the corporates are now utilizing their resources under CSR in the newly formed UT of Ladakh with the support of the Government. In this context, let us look at the top CSR projects in Ladakh.
HDFC Bank – Project Himalaya
HDFC Bank under its CSR arm Parivartan, launched project ‘HIMALAYA’ in the Leh district of Ladakh in 2024. ‘HIMALAYA’ stands for High-Altitude Income Maximization and Adaptive Livelihoods Advancement for Youth. The Bank has partnered with, Partnering Hope Into Action Foundation (PHIA) and, Appropriate Technology India to implement this initiative. This transformative project aims to revolutionize agricultural practices in Leh Ladakh, fostering sustainable farming techniques and economic empowerment.
Project ‘HIMALAYA’ is a Skill Development and Livelihood Enhancement initiative by the Bank and is aimed at supporting communities in the hilly regions, towards generating a climate-resilient livelihood. Key activities under the project include training locals in agriculture and milk value chain-led skills, formation of farmer producer groups and vegetable value chain producer groups and installation of solar passive greenhouse, vegetable nurseries, and solar street-lights. Project-HIMALAYA represents a holistic approach to rural development, emphasizing community empowerment and environmental sustainability. Through the formation of producer groups and the adoption of modern agricultural techniques, the project aims to create a ripple effect, catalyzing socio-economic progress across the region.
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CSR of Power Grid Corporation for safe drinking water
Power Grid Corporation of India Limited in July this year handed over a Truck Mounted Water Tanker with 9 kL capacity to DC Kargil for Government Degree College, Kargil under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
On the occasion, DC Kargil while handing over the water tanker congratulated the college faculty and students saying it fulfilled a long-pending demand of the college, thereby addressing their water scarcity issues. Executive Director (Northern Region-II), Rajesh Kumar, highlighted Powergrid’s contributions to the region, emphasizing their commitment to providing ongoing support to the Union Territory of Ladakh. The cost of the tanker is approximately 29.59 lakh.
More than 3,000 students are enrolled in various undergraduate degree courses at Govt. Degree College, Kargil. Permanent water supply for daily use was a primary concern for the college. To resolve the issue, college authorities had raised the matter with the District Magistrate, Kargil who in turn requested Powergrid to provide a water tanker to ensure an ample supply of potable drinking water for the Govt. Degree College, Kargil students and staff. Subsequently the MoU for providing this tanker was signed the tanker was formally handed over to DC, Kargil for the use of Government Degree College, Kargil.
This project is an initiative of Powergrid in District Kargil, towards promoting education. The company has been continuously extending support for development of various infrastructure activities in the Union Territory of Ladakh through its CSR initiatives.
CSR of Bisleri for restoration of Ladakh Reservoir
Bisleri International announced the successful restoration of Ladakh Reservoir in the Kyagar region of Tegar Village, Nubra Valley, Leh in September last year. The project aims to strengthen the local community’s resilience and alleviate the risks of water scarcity. The primary objective is to revitalize the Kyagar Panchayat Reservoir, bolstering the region’s water infrastructure and addressing its agricultural needs. The reservoir, measuring 135 meters in length, 90 meters in width and 2 meters in depth, underwent a thorough desilting and repair process to optimize its capacity and operational efficiency. The project also included essential repairs to the water canals, extending over 3 kilometres.
Bisleri International’s initiative to repair and restore the reservoir serves a multifaceted purpose. It has significantly increased the storage capacity to 24.3 million litres, providing a dependable water source crucial for the agricultural requirements of 210 families and approximately 1,050 households. It supports crop irrigation, including wheat, barley, apples, apricots, cherries, and a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, onions, tomatoes, mustard seeds, beans, peas, carrots, cabbage, and various green vegetables. This initiative ensures sustained agricultural activities throughout the year, extending beyond the monsoon season, enhancing crop productivity. Also, it contributes to livestock maintenance and improves sanitation facilities within the community.