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April 30, 2025
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CSR News: CSR brings road safety to life with its ‘Talking Zebra’ campaign

CSR News: CSR brings road safety to life with its ‘Talking Zebra’ campaign
Zuno General Insurance, formerly known as Edelweiss General Insurance, a new-age digital insurer, has launched a unique road safety awareness initiative, ‘The Talking Zebra’ to educate motorists and pedestrians about the importance of following traffic rules in an engaging and memorable way.
This initiative, spanning from 16th Jan to 25th Jan is part of Zuno General Insurance’s commitment to promote responsible driving habits for safer roads and aligns with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ (MoRTH) declaration of January as Road Safety Month.  Through theTalking Zebra Campaign, Zuno aims to amplify the national focus on reducing road accidents and fostering a culture of responsible road usage.
The Talking Zebra campaign is an innovative one-of-a-kind initiative that features a witty and interactive Zebra that is brought to life at traffic signals. As part of the campaign, a promoter dressed as a zebra—the very embodiment of zebra crossings—will interact with people at busy traffic signals.  in six major cities – Mumbai, Goa, Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. The mascot will interact with drivers and pedestrians, using wit, and humor to make road safety a topic everyone wants to talk about and a real concern. The Talking Zebra will remind everyone to “Keep your cool, follow traffic rules” while promoting essential practices like respecting zebra crossings, stopping at red lights, and avoiding jaywalking.
Shanai Ghosh, MD & CEO, Zuno General Insurance said, “Road safety is a critical and shared responsibility, and at Zuno we are committed to launching initiatives that create lasting, positive change. The Talking Zebra campaign is our unique way of blending education with entertainment to encourage positive behavior on the streets, both for the driving community and pedestrians. We have also gone a step beyond awareness by using rewards to influence behavioural change with our telematics-based Pay-How-You-Drive (PHYD), that incentivises good driving behaviour with discounts on the car insurance premium. By participating in PHYD, drivers will be encouraged to adopt safer practices, ultimately contributing to safer roads, fewer accidents, and reduced fatalities across India.”
Every year, India sees a high number of pedestrian accidents, often caused by reckless drivers who ignore traffic rules and zebra crossings. Kolkata too witnessed around 15% increase in accidents in the last five years, pedestrian safety remains a major concern due to factors such as heavy traffic, non-compliance with traffic regulations, and inadequate enforcement of safety measures like zebra crossings. The “India Status Report on Road Safety 2024,” by the TRIP Centre at IIT Delhi, highlights India’s slow progress in reducing road accident fatalities. Despite advances in other sectors, road traffic injuries remain a major public health issue, and most states are unlikely to meet the UN’s goal of halving traffic deaths by 2030. Comparing India to road safety leaders like Sweden, the report shows that while in 1990, an Indian was 40% more likely to die in a road accident, by 2021 this figure had risen to 600%.
The Annual Report on Road Accidents in India available till (2022) recorded 4,61,312 crashes marginally low by 1% in the last five years, leading to 1,68,491 fatalities and 4,43,366 injuries. On an average, India experiences 53 crashes and 92 deaths per hour. According to global data, India witnesses the highest number of road accidents in the world.
Ketan Mankikar, Head & VP Marketing & Communications, Zuno General Insurance said, “The Talking Zebra is more than just a campaign; it’s a conversation starter, it’s a movement to inspire everyone to follow traffic rules and make roads safer. By using wit and humor, we aim to make safety more relatable, memorable, and ultimately, impactful. With a sense of humour and originality, “The Talking Zebra” hopes to leave an impression on drivers that will lead to behavioural change. As a brand that stands for being easy, breezy, and surely, we are excited to bring this concept to life and see how it sparks a positive change on the roads.”
The campaign addresses pedestrian safety issues by introducing innovative and creative concepts that apply to both drivers and walkers.
To maximise the campaign’s reach and impact, Zuno General Insurance has partnered with popular radio channel Red FM, allowing ‘The Talking Zebra’s’ voice to amplify the message across airwaves. Zuno General Insurance has also taken the campaign to the public encouraging them to join the movement on social media with hashtags #TalkingZebra, #RespectTheStripes, and #StayCoolFollowRules.
Zuno General Insurance invites everyone to join The Talking Zebra movement and take a pledge to follow traffic rules. Together, let’s respect the stripes, stay safe, and make our roads a better place for all.
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CSR News: CSR Partnership to combat anaemia and malnutrition in Kosi through ‘Pink Smile’ initiative

CSR News: CSR Partnership to combat anaemia and malnutrition in Kosi through
PepsiCo India, in partnership with Smile Foundation, announced the launch of ‘Pink Smile’, a project aimed at combating anaemia and malnutrition. Focused on enhancing healthcare accessibility and availability, the initiative in its early stage has impacted 4,200 beneficiaries from underserved communities including women, adolescents and children. Mrs. Buddhi Mishra, District Program Officer, Mathura, graced the occasion as the chief guest in the presence of dignitaries, including Mr. Sachin Sharma, Medical Officer In-charge of the Chatta block, Mr. Naresh Kumar, Development Officer of the Chatta block, and Ms. Rukmadi, Child Development Program Officer of the Nandgaon block.
Aligned with PepsiCo India’s guiding principle, “Partnership of Progress – Unnati ki Sajhedari,” the program outreach is conducted in collaboration with frontline workers and health experts. It will also contribute to the local administration’s efforts towards Anaemia Mukt Bharat and reducing Kuposhan (malnutrition). The ‘Pink Smile’ program aims to impact over 40,000 individuals across 10 villages in Chhata Teshil of Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh.
In line with the government’s mission to improve maternal and child health, the ‘Pink Smile’ project seeks to address critical gaps in healthcare delivery, primarily through Mobile Medical Units (MMU) providing curative, preventive, and promotive services. Program interventions will include anemia screening, specialized teleconsultation, and nutrition distribution, set to benefit vulnerable populations—particularly women, adolescents, and children by enhancing their health-seeking behavior and providing timely interventions for anemia and malnutrition.
Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Buddhi Mishra, District Program Officer, Mathura, and the chief guest for the event, said “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to PepsiCo India, Smile Foundation, the dedicated volunteers, and our Anganwadi sisters for bringing this impactful initiative to life. The ‘Pink Smile’ project is a commendable step towards improving health and raising awareness in our communities. By working together, we can ensure timely interventions and develop sustainable solutions to eradicate malnutrition and anaemia, ultimately enhancing the health and well-being of countless individuals.”
Alok Srivastava, Plant Head – Kosi, PepsiCo India, shared, “The ‘Pink Smile’ project embodies PepsiCo India’s ‘Partnership of Progress’, where we work alongside organizations like Smile Foundation and local bodies to create meaningful and enduring impact in communities. This initiative goes beyond addressing anaemia and malnutrition; it is a step towards increased health literacy leading to women making informed decisions about their health and well-being.  Together, we are strengthening the collective societal efforts to lay the foundation for a healthier, anemia-free future for women, children, and adolescents in Uttar Pradesh.”
Santanu Mishra, Co-founder of Smile Foundation, shared, “Through the collaboration with PepsiCo India, we are seeing a direct impact on the healthcare aspects of the communities we serve. The comprehensive healthcare services provided through the Mobile Medical Unit will go a long way in complementing the government’s efforts of eradicating anemia and malnutrition, especially in rural India. It is inspiring to witness how a unified approach can help bridge gaps in augmenting access to health and awareness.”
The project’s multi-faceted approach includes:
– Specialized teleconsultations for women, adolescents, and children, providing them with expert medical guidance remotely.
– Anaemia screening camps that will be held fortnightly, in addition to regular health camps, to identify early cases of anemia and malnutrition.
– Nutrition education and distribution, featuring low-cost high-nutrition recipes, which will empower local communities to combat malnutrition effectively.
– Establishment of kitchen gardens to promote sustainable nutrition practices within households.
– Training of frontline workers to help raise awareness and provide necessary skills to combat anemia and malnutrition within local communities.
Since its inception, the project has been received with enthusiasm from local communities, with over 478 individuals screened for anemia and 214 children screened for malnutrition. The distribution of essential nutritional support has reached 125 children in the covered villages.
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CSR News: Inauguration of Digital Smartboard at Zilla Parishad Primary School (ZPPS), Nirgudsar, Ambegaon, Pune

CSR News: Inauguration of Digital Smartboard at Zilla Parishad Primary School (ZPPS), Nirgudsar, Ambegaon, Pune
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), today announced the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Digital Classroom at Zilla Parishad Primary School (ZPPS), Nirgudsar, Ambegaon, Pune. The initiative was inaugurated by Shri Amol Ramsing Kolhe, Member of Parliament, Shirur.
This initiative is part of HCCB’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, which is focused on enhancing the educational experience for students in Maharashtra. The newly installed smart boards aim to foster an interactive, engaging, and dynamic learning environment by integrating technology into the classroom. The digital smart boards will be an essential tool in modernising the classroom experience, enabling teachers to offer more interactive lessons and enhancing students’ ability to grasp complex concepts through visual and digital aids.
Speaking at the event, Shri Amol Ramsing Kolhe, Member of Parliament, Shirur said, “It is encouraging to see organizations like Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) play a pivotal role in supporting our state’s educational goals. The introduction of digital smart boards at ZPPS Nirgudsar is a perfect example of how technology can bridge the gap between traditional learning and modern educational needs. This initiative aligns with our vision of creating an environment where students can thrive and succeed in the digital age.”
Reflecting on the initiative, Himanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Officer, HCCB said, “Through our CSR programs, we aim to create lasting, positive change in communities across India. The introduction of digital smart boards at ZPPS Nirgudsar is a testament to our commitment to making education more accessible and impactful. By integrating technology into classrooms, we are empowering students and helping them unlock their full potential.”
Moreover, HCCB is initiating a digital smartboard installation at Ane village in Junnar block, Pune district. A digital smartboard and RO filter are also being installed at  Jambhori village, Ambegaon block, Pune district. Additionally, an RO filter installation is planned at Gunjalwadi village, Junnar block, Pune district. The main objective of this initiative is to grant students access to purified drinking water and adequate hygiene facilities. This is expected to improve the school’s infrastructure and foster a healthier environment for the students.
HCCB has been proactively interacting with the community, delivering a variety of services that have positively impacted over 150,000 individuals throughout Maharashtra. The community-centered initiatives are aimed at empowering women, expanding skill development opportunities, installing solar streetlights, and supporting Self-Help Groups (SHGs). In addition, HCCB made strides in advocating for hygiene and sanitation, and improving public health via the installation of RO filters, conducting WASH sessions, building toilets in schools, and anganwadis, and organising health camps.
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CSR News: CSR Empowering Lives of 1104 Women with new Livelihood Opportunities

CSR News: CSR Empowering Lives of 1104 Women with new Livelihood Opportunities
Leading housing non-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity India in partnership with Standard Chartered Bank has culminated a groundbreaking initiative to empower women in rural Maharashtra and Odisha by promoting economic independence through livelihood and entrepreneurship development. The initiative – known as ‘Empowering Women and Improving Life through Livelihood Interventions’ – has supported 1104 women in the second phase by offering them essential skills, financial support, and access to markets.
In the first phase of the project, 969 women from 85 self-help groups (SHGs) in Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Odisha were provided with livelihood opportunities, helping them achieve greater financial independence. 
The second phase focused on strengthening 96 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Dharashiv (formerly Osmanabad) and Beed districts of Maharashtra as well as Dhenkanal and Puri districts of Odisha. Through targeted capacity-building programmes, technical training and seed funding, SHGs have been empowered to start and scale micro-businesses in sectors such as home-based crafts, agriculture and agro-allied activities. The project also provided continuous support to women entrepreneurs through mentorship, financial literacy, bookkeeping training and awareness sessions on menstrual hygiene management.
“Zhanshi Chi Rani Ekal Mahila Bachat Gat is a Self-Help Group (SHG) established by single women, for single women. I knew nothing about running an enterprise, let alone handling a dal mill business. The unity of fellow women from our group, in-depth training and handholding support we received from Habitat for Humanity India helped me regain my confidence. It has given us not only a means of livelihood but also the strength to live with dignity. Nothing is impossible when women come together”, said Vidya More, a Habitat homeowner who set up a dal mill in collaboration with members of her SHG.   
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director, Habitat for Humanity India, said, “At Habitat for Humanity India, we believe that empowering women is fundamental to building resilient and thriving communities. By equipping women with the skills, resources, and confidence that enables them to lead businesses, this partnership with Standard Chartered Bank is not only transforming lives but also creating a ripple effect of economic independence in rural Maharashtra and Odisha. Some of these women are Habitat homeowners. They are now entrepreneurs and change-makers, paving the way for stronger, more self-reliant communities. Their success stories are a testament to the power of collective action and the potential that lies within each of them.”
At Standard Chartered Bank, we believe in fostering inclusive growth by empowering women to lead economically independent lives. Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity India reflects this commitment as we work together to equip women, many of whom are Habitat homeowners, with the skills and resources needed to build sustainable livelihoods. Through this initiative, we are not only supporting women in scaling their businesses but also creating a lasting impact on their families and communities. We are proud to stand with these remarkable women as they unlock new opportunities, drive local economies, and shape a brighter future for themselves and future generations,” said Ms. Karuna Bhatia, Head of Sustainability, India, Standard Chartered Bank.   
Micro-businesses initiated by SHGs include home-based enterprises such as applique art, agarbatti (incense sticks) making, bamboo and brass crafts; agriculture-based activities such as aquaculture, floriculture, mushroom, vegetable cultivation and agro-allied initiatives like dairy, goat rearing and poultry farming.  
In Maharashtra, 36 SHGs comprising of 456 women have been supported to establish micro-enterprises at the grassroot level. In Odisha, 60 SHGs comprising of 648 women have been supported to start their micro-enterprises.  
The aim of this project is to equip the women with leadership and technical skills, engage them in income generation activities and empower them to achieve strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build a better life for themselves and their families.
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The Complete CSR report of Hero MotoCorp for FY 2023-24

The Complete CSR report of Hero MotoCorp for FY 2023-24
Hero MotoCorp is the dominant market leader in India with over 50% share in the domestic motorcycle market. The company headquartered in New Delhi has been at the forefront of designing and developing technologically advanced motorcycles and scooters for customers globally. Hero MotoCorp continues to champion socio-economic progress and empowerment through its range of products and services.
Led by Dr Pawan Munjal, Chairman, Hero MotoCorp, it has taken rapid strides to expand its presence to 40 countries across Asia, Africa, and South & Central America.
Hero Moto Corp’s Road safety awareness is an essential intervention for preventing road accidents and making roads safer across the country. Under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) umbrella platform – ‘Hero We Care’ the company engages in multiple community outreach programs, ranging from protection of biodiversity, supporting healthcare, education and sports to promoting road safety across multiple sates.

CSR Spending for FY 2023-24

In the FY 2023-24, the company spent Rs 73.89 crores on CSR initiatives which is slightly more than the total CSR obligation Rs 72.70 crores. The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) vision of the Company is to ‘have a greener, safer and equitable world’. The company claims to have impacted 1.4 million people by providing quality education, livelihood opportunities, promoting road safety awareness, and supporting biodiversity conservation efforts through its CSR initiative, Hero WeCare.

Top CSR initiatives

Road safety programmes

Hero Motocorp has been investing in multiple projects geared towards improving road safety in India. These projects have been focused on safe driving and safe road-usage trainings as well as creating awareness amongst people about the basics of road safety. ‘Be a Road Hero’ is one such initiative that has made optimal use of mass media, social media and below-the-line activities to reiterate the road safety message as well as help bring about attitude change amongst road users.
Another CSR initiative Ride Safe India was aimed at enhancing safety of people travelling on Indian Roads and reducing accidents. As part of this initiative, the company has set up Road Safety Riding schools across India and hosting campaigns on ground, on air, on social media, and in schools to educate the masses and empower them. This initiative was supported by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India.

Project Khelo Hero – Sports

This flagship project aims to support athletes and support sports at grassroots level.
Under Khelo Hero, Hero MotoCorp entered into a partnership with Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) to support all essential needs of para-athletes. The primary objective is to facilitate all efforts of PCI that are focused on developing a conducive atmosphere whereby athletes are able to train well and eventually improve the country’s medal tally. Under the project, support is extended to all national and international sports involving athletes with disabilities, including impaired muscle power, impaired passive range of movement, limb deficiency, leg length difference, short stature, hypertonia, ataxia, athetosis, vision impairment and intellectual impairment.
The two-wheeler manufacturing company marked World Disability Day 2022 by partnering with the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). As part of this partnership – which is an initiative under the project ‘Khelo Hero’ of the Company’s overall corporate social responsibility (CSR) platform ‘Hero WeCare’, 14 specially-abled athletes will undergo professional training ably guided by experienced coaches. They will also be provided access to facilities and equipment to upgrade their skills and hone their talents, the company announced in a statement.
The company also partnered with Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) to provide overall development support to aspiring cricketers. The DCA is supported by Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and recognised by Deaf International Cricket Council (DICC).

Hero Salutes Heroes of the Nation

Saluting Indian Army veterans, Hero MotoCorp handed over Hero Destini 125 scooters to the soldiers who were disabled while in service in April 2022. The Company has handed over these scooters to the soldiers of Indian Army across Gujarat, Delhi-NCR, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Bihar, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Assam and Kerala.
In August 2022, the company announced a package of welfare measures for the ex-personnel and their families. Launched under the Company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) platform ‘Hero We Care’, the ‘Hero Salutes Heroes of the Nation’ project retro fitted Hero Destini 125 scooters were handed over to former Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. The scooters are supported by two auxiliary wheels in the rear – which have been customised to suit the riding requirements of the divyang ex-personnel who were disabled while in service.
As per the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Hero MotoCorp and the CRPF Family Welfare Association (CWA), the project also offers a package for 200 identified CRPF families who have been affected severely due to the Coronavirus pandemic. The company will support children who have lost one or both of their parents or guardians and women who have lost their spouses due to Covid-19 in the country.

Project Arogya – Healthcare

The project focuses on providing health care facility to the most vulnerable section of society in which activities are undertaken to ensure overall well being of communities. The company’s Mobile Medical Vans have been providing medical assistance, basic treatment as well as medication to residents of Delhi, Dharuhera and Rewari in Haryana, Neemrana in Rajasthan, Jaipur in Rajasthan, Uttarakhand’s Haridwar and Dehradun, Sri-City Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh and Halol in Gujarat.
Under this project, the company also organises Eye Care Camps, General Health Care Camps equipped with a team of professional medical practitioners at their beneficiary villages throughout the year. Over the years, these camps have helped in preventing several serious illnesses among communities by detecting them at early stages and recommending preventive measures. The company also organises General Camps on Home safety, fire safety, first responder training with the purpose of ensuring community safety in case of any emergency situation. Yoga awareness Session is organized on regular basis.
There is also a Running Winter Night Rescue Van which aims to rescue homeless workers and migrant labourers during extreme cold winters in Delhi. A lot of these people reportedly die due to the cold wave of winters. In an effort to rescue such people and provide them with bare minimum comfort that can save their lives, a van loaded with winter clothes reaches out to hundreds of needy and homeless on Delhi’s roads. The van also transports the homeless shivering on the roads to night shelters.

CSR for Education

As part of the company’s CSR towards education, students in government schools in rural areas have been supported for remedial education through 141 Asha Centres in Dharuhera, Neemrana, Jaipur and Haridwar. More than 650 students have been benefited from infrastructure development work in Govt. Senior Secondary School, Jaipur. Students of Raman Munjal Vidya Mandir School in Gurugram were benefited through the support extended by Hero We Care and over 400 students benefited through University scholarship programs.

CSR for Skill Development

The company has partnering with Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) for upskilling two wheeler market technicians. ASDC is a professional body that seeks to bridge the skilling gap by providing skilling, upskilling and re-skilling opportunities to the Indian workforce in the Indian automotive sector. Technicians have been trained on Fuel Injection technology in BS VI two wheelers across 33 cities and town under this partnership. Also, over a 100 technicians completed a three month two wheeler training course through Skill Development Centers supported by Hero MotoCorp.

Project Jeevika – Skilling women

This project aims at skilling women to make them financially and mentally independent. The project focuses on providing livelihood and skills training to over 1,000 youth mainly girls and women from marginalized socioeconomic backgrounds. The training programmes equip them to become professional beauticians and foray into male dominated jobs like auto mechanics, computer operators, tailors, etc.

CSR for children with neuro-developmental disabilities

In June 2023, Hero MotoCorp partnered with the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA) to support their community development initiatives. As per an MoU signed between Hero MotoCorp and the NWWA, the Company will support CHETNA – an Early Intervention Center in Delhi that provides occupational therapy, speech therapy, play and counselling to children born with neuro-developmental disabilities.
The initiative, launched as part of the flagship ‘Hero Salutes Heroes of the Nation’ program under the Company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) platform ‘Hero We Care’, aims to support children in their learning needs, enabling them to progress through the early developmental stages, thereby enhancing their quality of life.
The support and therapies provided at the Early Intervention Center – CHETNA helps in minimising the impact of neuro-developmental disabilities through multi-modality interventions in children under six years of age. CHETNA also help these children achieve their maximum potential and promote their integration into mainstream education.

Sustainability

In a step towards sustainability, the company has adopted the Aravali Biodiversity Park in Gurugram. The purpose is to ensure conservation, restoration and protection of biodiversity. Spread over 380 acres, the Aravali Biodiversity Park contains ecologically restored and semi-amid land vegetation. It has around 300 native plant species and over 180 species of birds.
Under its project ‘Hero Green Drive’, FY 2014-15 onwards, the company has planted over 2.38 million tree saplings till January 2022. The project has been undertaken in association with implementation partners namely Contree, Grow-Trees, BCCL, EMACH and SGI.
The company has also started awareness projects to promote renewable energy and initiatives to conserve and harvest water.

 

CSR News: Empowering with Inclusive Initiatives for Women and Economic Growth

CSR News: Empowering with Inclusive Initiatives for Women and Economic Growth
Frido, a pioneer in ergonomic solutions for over a decade, proudly celebrates its remarkable growth while reaffirming its unwavering commitment to community development. With its roots firmly planted in India, Frido is not only transforming lives through its innovative products but also through impactful initiatives that empower local communities and promote sustainable economic growth.
Frido’s success began with its impactful work in regions like Talegaon, where it created significant economic opportunities. Today, the company directly employs 300 individuals and indirectly supports over 1,000 people from various communities. By the end of 2025, this support is projected to extend to over 2,500+ individuals directly and indirectly across India, reflecting Frido’s dedication to driving nationwide empowerment and resilience.
Frido’s forward-thinking initiatives are redefining opportunities for local women by addressing key barriers to employment and enabling them to play an active role in their families and communities. Recognizing the need for inclusivity and accessibility in the workforce, Frido has introduced a unique model by renting large spaces in villages like Sathegaon, allowing women to manage packaging tasks close to their homes. This setup eliminates the need for women to travel elsewhere for dispatching the products as Frido’s team oversees the entire logistics process. By undertaking final value-added services (VAS) and receiving regular weekly payments, these women not only earn a reliable income but also develop essential skills. This initiative enhances their financial independence and fosters social empowerment, enabling them to balance professional contributions with household responsibilities seamlessly.
Sarpanch Varsha Swapnil Navegane of Sathegaon highlighted the transformative impact of Frido’s initiatives, saying, “This initiative has been a game-changer for our community. Our youth now have meaningful job opportunities right here, eliminating the need to migrate to cities like Pune and Mumbai. Women, too, are stepping into the workforce, contributing to their families’ well-being and driving a wave of positive transformation across our villages.”\
In addition to these efforts, Frido has partnered with a women empowerment- focused NGO to foster skill development and inclusivity. The collaboration promotes stitching and packaging skills among women, equipping them to take on diverse roles in the workforce. This initiative not only boosts employability but also drives gender equality, creating a ripple effect of positive change across communities.
Ganesh Sonawane, Co-founder of Frido, emphasized the company’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment, “True success lies in the impact we create beyond the balance sheet. At Frido, we believe in empowering individuals—not just through jobs, but by unlocking potential and nurturing self-reliance. Every initiative we undertake is a step toward shaping a more inclusive, resilient future—where communities grow stronger, and lives are transformed.”
Frido’s initiatives are a testament to the company’s belief that sustainable growth is deeply intertwined with the well-being of the communities it serves. By fostering economic opportunities, promoting skill development, and championing gender equality, Frido is building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
As Frido continues to expand its reach and redefine comfort through innovation, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals and create a lasting impact on society.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

Top Companies for CSR in Kutch

Top Companies for CSR in Kutch
Kutch is the largest district in India. It is, in fact, larger than some of the smaller states of the country. The region is mostly arid, with a major part of it covered by the salt desert. The world knew about Kutch because of the natural disasters it has to bear ever so often. In 2001, the region was hit with a major earthquake that caused devastating loss of life and property for the residents. Cyclones and droughts are very common in the region.
In the last few years, the region has gained a lot of popularity across the globe for its coveted Rann Utsav, occurring during winters in the salt flats. Recently, PM Narendra Modi visited the district to inaugurate ‘Smritivan’, the earthquake memorial museum, which is a world-class museum comparable to the museum built in the US and Japan for preserving the memory of the World Trade Centre attack and nuclear war, respectively. The monument has gained a lot of popularity in a short period.
In FY2022-23, the district was the recipient of some of the lowest CSR funds, amounting to Rs. 7 lakhs from only 2 companies. The two spenders in Kutch in FY23 were Nuwama Wealth Finance Limited with a spending of Rs. 6 lakhs, and Mahindra Rural Housing Finance Limited with a spending of Rs. 1 lakh.

Companies for CSR in Kutch

Tata Power

Known for its arid climate, erratic rainfall, and lack of irrigation means, the western most district of India–Kutch–has been a cause of woe for farmers, as it hampers agricultural practices. As a panacea to this struggle, Tata Power Mundra Thermal Power Station has set up one of India’s largest traditional (desi) seed banks. The native seed bank is benefitting the farmers and people from the community and bringing a drastic improvement in their lives while also providing them with a livelihood-linked ecosystem for more holistic growth. Initiative in alignment with Indian agri- tech practices empowering  farmer groups. The Company pursued the campaign for “Seed Bank” intending to conserve, preserve and promote the native varieties of Seeds for various crops & fodders for an arid region like Kutch to address the climate change impact and ensure crop sustainability. To implement the initiative, Tata Power Mundra has closely been working with Kutch Fodder Fruit & Forest Development Trust ( KFFFDT).
Taking cognizance of the farming situation in the region and the problems of the farmers, Tata Power, Mundra launched the “Desi Beej Bank” program which has become one of the largest Desi (native) Seed Banks and the first of its kind in the Kutch District. The Company created awareness of the program by organizing Desi Beej Rath Yatra in all villages of the region to orient the farmers on several benefits of “Desi Beej”. The farmers were also trained on conservation practices for traditional seeds and about the approach methodology and implementation
These native variety seeds are weather resistant and suitable for the region as it requires less quantity of water, organic fertilizers, and fewer pesticides in comparison to conventional hybrid seeds. Conventional seeds tend to require high chemical-based fertilizer and pesticides which results in a decrease in soil fertility.
The seed banks have been created for the 7 crop varieties- Jowar, Guvar (Major crop), Bajra, Til, Moong, Urad, and Moth. 29,403 Kg of Seeds is available for the coming Kharif Season.
It will cater to the need of 2350 Farmers and a total of 6650 acres of cultivation would be possible during this Kharif season with this bank. Seeds have been provided to farmers at subsidized rates.
In the last few years , desi variety seeds have been collected from the locals during the mass campaign which enabled the farmers to create a source of income by selling the seeds to the seed bank. The farmers anre informed about the benefits of the Seed bank and how it will support and benefit them during a drought or when the availability of the seeds is scarce.
Talking more about the initiative, Mr. A.N. Ramesh, Chief, Tata Power Mundra Thermal Power Station. said, “As an organization, we have consciously undertaken initiatives that ensure holistic and sustainable development of the region and its surrounding communities as well. With the Desi Seed Bank program, we have successfully managed to create one of India’s largest seed banks that will help in solving the problems that arise due to climatic changes. It also helps in conserving the soil for future use and ensures crop sustainability which benefits the local farmers in the long run. In the coming future, we wish to reach out and work with more such communities in remote regions to identify and solve the existing problems by implementing customized strategies & policies in a collaborative manner with like-minded stakeholders and agencies. ”

Welspun India

Welspun India Limited, global leaders of home textile, was recently felicitated with the National Water Award announced by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation. Welspun India won the 1st prize in Best Industry Category. The recognition came on the back of the social and environmental impact made by Welspun’s cutting-edge sewage treatment plant in the drought-prone Kutch district.
Installed in 2016, the 40 MLD sewage treatment plant utilizes the latest wastewater treatment technology to repurpose urban sewage water as high-quality clean water for industrial use, making it one of the first such facility to do so in India. This helped Welspun achieve zero freshwater usage for industrial applications at its manufacturing unit in Anjar while mitigating the environmental and community health impact of the pollution caused by the discharge of untreated urban sewage into the sea. The facility has also provided relief to the local farming community, as the freshwater from the Narmada river previously used for industrial application is now utilized for agricultural purposes.
Ms. Dipali Goenka, Jt. MD & CEO, Welspun India Ltd said, “As a responsible corporate citizen, Welspun India has always been committed to sustainability, environmental consciousness, and community welfare. Our cutting-edge sewage treatment plant in Anjar was designed to operate at the intersection of these three principles. We are delighted that our efforts to eliminate the dependence on freshwater sources for industrial applications has been recognized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. It only motivates us to raise the bar even higher.”
Welspun’s project to utilize treated urban sewage water for industrial purposes has received appreciation from key decision-makers at the Ministry of Environment and Forest, as well as the State Pollution Control Board, during the clearance stage. It has also been hailed as the model for all major industrial projects to reduce their ecological footprint and add value to their local communities.

CSR News: Providing digital hearing aids to underprivileged hearing-impaired children to Celebrate Inclusion and Unity

CSR News: Providing digital hearing aids to underprivileged hearing-impaired children to Celebrate Inclusion and Unity
Josh Foundation organized a heartwarming Dance Competition at the Mukesh Patel Auditorium, NMIMS, Vile Parle (West), bringing together over 250 hearing-impaired children from 14 schools to showcase their exceptional talent. The event, centered on the theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” highlighted the importance of unity, inclusion, and empowerment.

The audience was captivated by 16 mesmerizing performances by the children, who demonstrated resilience and creativity through dance, breaking barriers with their extraordinary efforts. The event was graced by prominent personalities, including Chief Guest Mr. Murli Menon, Director Group Security & CSR Lead at ATOS, Mr. Shirish Anjaria, Chairman and Managing Director of Dynacons Systems & Solutions Ltd, Ms. Vaibhavi Shah, Executive Director R&D at Inventia Healthcare, Mr. Ankur Shah, Whole Time Director of Business Development at Inventia Healthcare, and Shri Gauranga Das, a renowned Spiritual Counsellor.

Speaking on the occasion, Devangi Dalal, an Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathologist, and one of the founder-trustees of Josh Foundation, said, “This event is a testament to the power of inclusion. Dance transcends all boundaries, and today, we witnessed these children express their inner strength and joy through this universal art form. Our mission is to empower hearing-impaired individuals, and events like these are a step toward a more inclusive society.”

A distinguished panel of judges added to the event’s prestige, featuring choreographers Gulnaaz Khan and Harsh Vardhan Khemka, actress and performer Arshi Khan, and actress Sahila Chaddha. Their expertise and enthusiasm inspired the young participants, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and celebration. Judge Gulnaaz Khan mentioned that “These children are living examples of how art transcends barriers. Their passion, energy, and creativity inspire us to see the world as one family united by love and hope.”

In addition to the competition, Josh Foundation, with the generous support of their donors, provided digital hearing aids to underprivileged hearing-impaired children on the day of the event. Throughout the year, the foundation has supported around 500 children with Digital Hearing Aids, furthering their mission to enhance the quality of life for these children.

The competition was a true celebration of talent, unity, and determination, leaving the audience inspired and reaffirming Josh Foundation’s commitment to fostering inclusion and empowering hearing-impaired individuals.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

IITM Research Develop Warning System That Can Dengue Outbreak Two Months In Advance

IITM Research Develop Warning System That Can Dengue Outbreak Two Months In Advance
Experts and researchers at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, in collaboration with other related institutions, developed an early warning system for Dengue. The system can predict potential outbreaks more than two months in advance using observed temperature, rainfall, and humidity patterns. This will be done by analysing all potential climate based dengue factors (or predators), along with their combined interaction with dengue at a regional scale.
The latest study led by Sofia Yacob and Roxy Mathew Koll from IITM indicates that there is an intrinsic link between climate and dengue outbreak in India. The report was published in under ‘Scientific Reports’, a section inside international science weekly Nature, on January 21, 2025. The study explores how rainfall temperature and humidity variations can influence dengue in hotspot areas like Pune, Maharashtra. 

Scientists Making Stride In Dengue Study

“Such early warning systems can help authorities take protective measures to prevent and manage outbreaks,” said climate scientist and professor Roxy Mathew Koll to an Indian daily newspaper.
For Prof Koll, the motivation to work on this research was very personal. “In August 2024, my wife was severely affected by dengue and had to be hospitalised in the ICU. Hospitals in Pune were overwhelmed with dengue patients and this experience showed me that even as a climate scientist,no one is spared,” he said.
The study came out of joint efforts done by experts from the University of Maryland, US, University of Pune, University of Nottingham, along with the Maharashtra and Pune health department officials. Titled ‘Dengue Dynamics, Predictions and Future Increase Under Changing Monsoon Climate in India’, the report said that rising temperature and fluctuating monsoon rainfall could increase dengue related death by 13% by 2030 and 23% to 40% by 2050. Only timely intervention can save India from becoming a dengue hotspot.
The research team has developed a model based on artificial intelligence or machine learning to predict dengue outbreak nearly two months before. This will help authorities boost outbreak preparedness.
This will provide adequate time for local administration and health departments to enhance response strategies with the aim of reducing dengue cases and deaths. If the collected health data is shared by the state and health departments, a customized early warning system for climate sensitive diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya, can also be prepared for each city or district in India.

Global Burden of Dengue

Dengue is one of the fastest spreading mosquito borne diseases, which escalates under the influence of climate change. India contributes a third of the total global burden of dengue. This is because the country has relatively high temperature and humidity, which is expected to project upwards in the future. As monsoon rainfall patterns are becoming more erratic with heavy to extreme rains, there will be an overall increase in warmer days. This situation can be very conducive for a dengue outbreak.
According to the study, a combination of warm temperature above 27°, moderate and evenly distributed rainfall along with humidity levels between 60% to 78% during the monsoon season can increase dengue incidence, and eventually death. The months of June to September in India are likely to experience more cases of dengue.
However, heavy rainfall above 150 mm, within a week, can reduce dengue prevalence by flushing out mosquito eggs and larvae.
According to the study, which is located in Pune, the city is expected to experience a 1.2 to 3.5°C. average temperature rise by the end of the century. The dengue mortality in Pune is projected to also rise in the short-term, i.e. between 2020 to 2040, by 13%  in accordance with the global warming by 1.5°C. The mid century projection for 2040 to 2060 is approximately 25 to 40% rise in dengue related mortalities. This goes as the global temperature is expected to warm by 2°C under moderate to high carbon emissions.

महाकुंभ में गौतम अडानी ने लगाई डुबकी, हाथों से बनाकर खिलाया खाना

महाकुंभ में गौतम अडानी ने लगाई डुबकी, हाथों से बनाकर खिलाया खाना
देश के दिग्गज कारोबारी गौतम अडानी आज प्रयागराज महाकुंभ में अपनी पत्नी प्रीति अडानी के साथ पहुंचे। उन्होंने वहां पर खुद प्रसाद बनाया और भक्तों को बांटा। अडानी ने कुंभ में सजावट और व्यवस्था के लिए शासन-प्रशासन का आभार भी जताया। गौतम अडानी ने खुद अपने सोशल मीडिया पर पोस्ट कर तस्वीरें शेयर कीं। उन्होंने कहा कि प्रयागराज आकर ऐसा लगा मानो पूरी दुनिया की आस्था, सेवा भाव और संस्कृतियां यहीं मां गंगा की गोद में आकर समाहित हो गयी है।

गौतम अडानी ने भंडारे का खुद बनाया खाना और भक्तों को खिलाया

Mahakumbh में पहुंचकर Gautam Adani ने कहा कि कुंभ की भव्यता और दिव्यता सजीव बनाए रखने वाले सभी साधु, संत, कल्पवासी एवं श्रद्धालुओं की सेवा में तत्पर शासन-प्रशासन, सफाई कर्मियों और सुरक्षाबलों को मैं हृदय से धन्यवाद देता हूँ और आखिरी में उन्होंने कहा कि मां गंगा का आशीर्वाद हम सभी पर बना रहे। गौतम अडानी महाकुंभ पहुंचकर सेक्टर 19 में इस्कॉन गए, जहां पर उन्होंने भक्तों के लिए महाप्रसाद बनाया और उसे वितरित भी किया। हम आपको बता दें कि अडानी अपने सीएसआर से महाकुंभ में भंडारा चला रही है।

प्रीति अडानी थी साथ, लगायी संगम में डुबकी

कुंभ में इस्कॉन और अडानी ग्रुप रोजाना लाखों लोगों को प्रसाद वितरित करता है। इसी में आज खुद अडानी ग्रुप के चेयरमैन शामिल हुए। गौतम अडानी के साथ उनकी पत्नी Priti Adani भी महाकुंभ में उनके साथ गईं। उन्हें भी प्रसाद बनाने में सहयोग करते हुए देखा गया।

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