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April 30, 2025
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Mysore’s Government School Students to present innovative projects at TiE Global Summit

Mysore’s Government School Students to present innovative projects at TiE Global Summit
Mysuru, India: Vikasa Parva, a first-of-its-kind entrepreneurship and design thinking workshop led by Excel Public School in partnership with Excel Empathy Foundation was recently conducted exclusively for govt school students and teachers in the Mysuru district. The program, spanning six weeks from October 23 to November 29, 2024, hosted at Excel Public School’s Innovation Centre, saw participation from 186 students and 36 teachers from 36 govt schools to develop projects and solutions for community problems.
The schools will now participate in the upcoming TiE Global Summit (TGS), Bangalore, on December 10, 2024, with the 10 best projects set to be presented at the session ‘Firestarters Gang: TYECON-TGS2024’. Additionally, all 36 innovative projects will be submitted for the School Innovation Marathon 2024, India’s largest school innovation challenge organized by the Ministry of Education, Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) NITI Aayog, and the Ministry of Education’s Innovation Cell (MIC), encouraging students to identify community problems and develop innovative and practical solutions.
The govt school students and teachers, through the Vikasa Parva workshop, were introduced to areas like innovation, R&D, product development, engineering design process, and entrepreneurship, enabling them to identify solutions for local problems using the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework. The students were provided access to Excel Public School’s Innovation Lab, ATL Lab, and guidance from subject-matter experts to create low-cost solutions and build viable go-to-market business plans.
The final leg of the workshop involved the presentation of the projects and prototypes in front of a jury with 10 projects and business plans spanning Healthcare, Sustainable Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Sustainable development and Environmental Conservation, making the cut for further recognition.
The 6-week program was designed & executed by mentors from Excelsoft Technologies and Excel Public School. They conducted workshops for the Department of School Education, which included Block Education Officers (BEOs), DDPI (Admin), DDPI(Development), Principal of DIET, BEOs of all Education Blocks, Faculty Members of DIET and Headteachers from 36 government schools. This collaboration was aimed at ensuring the successful execution of the program.
Speaking about his experience in leading such an initiative, Mr. Mathew KG, Principal of Excel Public School said: “Leading an initiative like Vikasa Parva has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s been inspiring to see the enthusiasm and dedication of students and teachers in developing impactful solutions. We are truly honoured to support them with the right tools, mentorship, and opportunities that can empower them to lead meaningful dialogues and emerge as innovators who can make a tangible difference in their communities. We wish them all the best for their upcoming participation at the TiE global summit and School Innovation Marathon, opening doors to further enhance their skillsets.’’
Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Sudhanva Dhananjaya, Chairman & Managing Director, of Excelsoft Technologies and ExcelGroup said: “Workshops like Vikasa Parva are essential in nurturing creativity and cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset among students across all schools and backgrounds. We are proud to have had the opportunity to support such a transformative workshop through Excel Public School and Excel Empathy Foundation. This initiative is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young minds. At Empathy, our larger aim is to build continued awareness creation, collaborate with the local authority, and build knowledge-based workshops impacting public education, healthcare, and community welfare.”
Mr. Dhananjaya will be presenting the closing remarks at TYECON- TGS 2024, where the best projects developed through Vikasa Parva will be presented. TYECON is a signature event at the TGS, where visionary leaders, industry pioneers, and influential figures gather to celebrate and empower young entrepreneurs. The event is expected to act as an informative & interactive platform for these high school students giving them access to engage, learn, and network with some of the best minds in the tech and startup ecosystem.

 

 

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CSR News: Blood Donation Drive Receives Overwhelming Support in Mumbai

CSR News: Blood Donation Drive Receives Overwhelming Support in Mumbai
Mumbai, India: In a landmark initiative underscoring its commitment to healthcare and social responsibility, Supriya Lifescience Ltd. organised a mega blood donation drive in partnership with seven leading blood banks in Mumbai. The drive witnessed an impressive turnout, with 1,790 donors stepping forward to support the cause, resulting in the collection of 525 blood units in just one day.
The initiative was conducted in collaboration with Prabodhan Bloodbank, Nair Hospital, Sion Hospital, KEM Hospital, Wadia Hospital, Breach Candy Hospital Trust, and Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre. The camp, which commenced at 7 a.m. at Prabodhan Bloodbank, saw participation from volunteers and donors from diverse backgrounds, united by their desire to make a meaningful contribution.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Satish Wagh, Executive Chairman and Whole-time Director of Supriya Lifescience Ltd., said, “This blood donation drive is a testament to the power of community and shared purpose. At Supriya Lifescience, we are driven by the belief that every effort, no matter how small, can save lives and strengthen our healthcare ecosystem. I am deeply moved by the generosity of all those who came forward today. Their contributions will undoubtedly make a difference where it is needed most.”
The success of this initiative reflects Supriya Lifescience Ltd.’s unwavering dedication to addressing critical healthcare needs and fostering a culture of giving back to society.
Supriya Lifescience Ltd expresses heartfelt gratitude to all donors, volunteers, and partner blood banks, whose collective efforts ensured the smooth execution of the drive. The blood collected will serve as a vital resource for patients in need, highlighting the importance of such initiatives play in bridging healthcare gaps.

 

 

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Who are India’s first female pilots

Who are India’s first female pilots
At a time when aviation was looked upon as a strictly male dominated domain, Indian ladies clad in sarees showed the world what they are capable of! These women fought sexism, gender bias, defied societal norms and soared into the sky!
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), 15% of India’s pilots are women, which is three times the global average of 5%. With such a high percentage of females soaring the skies, our nation proudly boasts of being a global leader in challenging gender bias in the aviation industry.
India has the greatest proportion of female pilots in the world, compared to 5.5% in the US, which is the largest aviation market in the world, and 4.7% in the UK, according to the International Society of Women Airline Pilots.
On Armed Forces Flag Day 2024, here is a look into some of India’s first female pilots who have made us proud.

Sarla Thakral – India’s first woman to fly an aircraft

Sarla Thakral (also spelled Sarla Thukral) made history by achieving her aviation pilot license in the year 1936 when she was just 21. And guess what, the first woman to fly an aircraft in India flew solo in a Gypsy Moth aircraft wearing a saree! Thakral was born in Delhi in 1914 and passed away in 2008 at the age of 93.
With over 1,000 hours of flying experience, Thakral not only shattered stereotypes but also showed the path for countless women to pursue aviation as a career. Her inspiring journey stands a symbol of courage, determination, and breaking barriers.

Durba Banerjee – first woman commercial pilot in India

At a time when women were not allowed to even step out of their homes as per their own wish, there was a woman dreaming of touching the skies! Captain Durba Banerjee, a first-generation female pilot from her family, started her aviation career flying a Dakota with Air Survey of India as a DC3 pilot in the year 1959.
Fascinated by aircrafts and dreaming of flying them since childhood, Durba never gave up on her passion. After being associated with the Air Survey of India, Captain Durba Banerjee moved to Indian Airlines in the year 1956 at Calcutta to become India’s first woman commercial pilot. With over 9000 flying hours to her credit, Banerjee also became a commander in the E27 turboprop Dutch aircraft and flew the Tornado A-200, Airbus 300 and Boeing 737.

Nivedita Bhasin – Youngest commercial airline captain

Nivedita Bhasin boasts of being the youngest commercial airline captain in the world, a feat she achieved in the year 1989. Bhasin, the youngest woman pilot in the history of civil aviation, commanded a commercial jet aircraft at the age of 26. Bhasin flew a Boeing 737 and became the youngest woman to captain a jet aircraft. Seven years later, she advanced to commanding an Airbus 300.
In 2011, she took part in a risky mission to rescue Indian citizens stranded in Libya during its civil war. Having flown for more than 22,000 hours, she was part of the co-pilot team in the world’s inaugural all-female crew flight in 1985. She has also made history by being the first woman pilot to become Air India’s chief safety officer.

Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh, first and only woman Rafale fighter pilot

Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh is India’s first and only female pilot to fly the Rafale fighter aircraft. She was part of the Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent which took part in the Orion war exercise in France. She is the Rafale squadron’s first woman fighter pilot and is part of the Golden Arrows Squadron of the Air Force based in Ambala, Punjab.
Born in Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi, Shivangi joined the Indian Air Force in 2017 and was appointed into the IAF’s second batch of women fighter pilots. Shivangi became the first woman fighter pilot to fly a Rafale in 2020. Apart from Rafale, Shivangi has also flown the MiG-21 Bison aircraft.

 

Squadron Leader Mohana Singh – India’s first female fighter pilot to fly LCA Tejas

IAF women fighter pilots Bhawana Kanth, Avani Chaturvedi and Mohana Singh
Squadron Leader Mohana Singh scripted history in September this year as she became the first female fighter pilot in India to fly the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. The 32-year-old has joined the elite 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ squadron, which operates the LCA Tejas. Singh recently took part in the historic ‘Tarang Shakti’ exercise in Jodhpur, where she was crucial in instructing the vice chiefs of the Indian Army and Navy during a historic flight. She was the first woman fighter pilot to be inducted into a fighter squadron about eight years ago.
In 2016, Mohana, alongside Avani Chaturvedi and Bhawana Kanth, became one of the first women to be inducted into the Indian Air Force’s fighter pilot program. Following this, the IAF took a historic decision to open its fighter stream to women, thereby breaking gender barriers in the military. Mohana’s first major career breakthrough came in 2019 when she became the first female fighter pilot in the IAF to attain full operational status on the Hawk Mk.132 advanced jet trainer.
Born in 1992 in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu, Mohana Singh belongs to a family which boasts of a history in military service. Her father, Pratap Singh Jitarwal, is a retired IAF Master Warrant Officer, and her grandfather was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra.

 

 

India’s elderly Population set to triple by 2050: ‘Illness To Wellness’ calls for unified action to address Healthcare Challenges

India’s elderly Population set to triple by 2050: ‘Illness To Wellness’ calls for unified action to address Healthcare Challenges
Mumbai, India: India is in a unique position due to its demographic dividend but senior citizens in the country are facing battles on many fronts, primarily healthwise. Looking to ensure the elderly are not bogged down by diseases and loneliness in the silver years and listing preventable healthcare solutions, ASSOCHAM Foundation for Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR), the social arm of ASSOCHAM, organised a panel discussion featuring experts titled ‘”Empowering Elders: A Path to Healthy and Graceful Ageing” at the India International Centre.
Supported by hygiene brand Savlon, the panel discussion featured (Padma Shri) Prof. (Dr.) Subhash C. Manchanda, Cardiologist, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Prof. Vinod Kumar, Senior Consultant in Medicine & Former Head of Geriatric Clinic, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi and Dr. Meenal Thakral, Classified Specialist–Geriatric Medicine, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram. The session was moderated by Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Member, ASSOCHAM National Council on CSR and Founder & Director, Total Care Control, Delhi-NCR and EC Member, Research Society for The Study of Diabetes in India – RSSDI.
Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM National Council on CSR, said, “Globally, ageing is one of the 21st century’s most significant social challenges. In India, the elderly population stands at 104 million and is projected to rise to 319 million by 2050. The government on its part has been addressing this subject through laudable initiatives, however, over the years major issues around elderly healthcare have emerged. With a three- fold increase in elderly population expected over the next two and a half decades and geriatric care still being a relatively new area in healthcare and mainly restricted to cities, I firmly believe that empowerment of the elderly necessitates active and sustained participation from the corporate sector, civil society, and the government.”
Healthy ageing, according to Dr. Thakral, is about fostering physical, mental, and social well-being in order to enable people to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. In order to enable older persons to preserve their independence, remain active, and participate completely in their communities throughout their lives, supporting surroundings and policies are needed. Geriatric syndromes, which include incontinence, falls, frailty, and cognitive loss, are prevalent and frequently linked health issues that impact older persons. Through a comprehensive approach to care, early identification and management of their problems can assist preserve independence, enhance quality of life, and avert complications as they age.
“Man’s dream of graceful healthy aging and a happy old age is achievable through balanced diet without addictions, physical exercise, sound sleep, peace and relaxation, as well as by engaging in active mental, social, and spiritual engagement,” said Prof. Kumar.
Prof. (Dr.) Subhash C. Manchanda, Cardiologist, said, “Elders have several health & social problems Yoga which originated in India has the potential to control them Common diseases of the elderly viz heart disease, high BP diabetes joint diseases. Constipation etc can be prevented by yoga In addition yoga is extremely beneficial for mental health & relieves stress anxiety depression & sleep disorders Scientific studies show that yoga can delay brain damage & even may be anti-aging. Hence it is suggested that yoga is a perfect technique for heathy & graceful aging.”
During the event, Dr. Kesari stated, “We must accept and adjust to the fact that aging is merely a number and that life is a river that flows.” Indeed, we do experience issues as we get older, but they don’t happen. Afterwards. The figure of 60 years old is shown. The problems actually begin much earlier, especially those that affect the majority of a nation’s population, such as high blood pressure and noncommunicable diseases like heart disease. Many diseases, including diabetes, high cholesterol, cancer, and asthma, begin early in life.”

 

 

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PETA India appeals for stronger Animal Protection Laws in Delhi

PETA India appeals for stronger Animal Protection Laws in Delhi
New Delhi, India: Ahead of International Animal Rights Day and Human Rights Day (10 December), dozens of supporters of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India and Aashray Foundation wearing animal masks, Modi jackets, white kurtas, and sarees while carrying signs reading ‘Stronger Penalties for Cruelty, Please,’ gathered at Jantar Mantar on Friday.
Their purpose was to request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase the penalties for cruelty to animals. The PETA India supporters, representing cows, dogs, monkeys, mice, and other species, also unfurled a giant banner reading, “Dear PM Modi, Please Increase Penalties for Cruelty to Animals” and encouraged passersby to sign a petition pushing for jail time, meaningful fines, mandatory counselling, and a ban on future contact with animals for animal abusers.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act was passed in 1960. Now over sixty years old, it is severely outdated, and the penalties it prescribes are so minimal – as low as Rs 10 and a maximum of only Rs 50 for a first offense – that they fail to deter perpetrators. (The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, however, prescribe stronger punishments for cruelty to animals.)
“For the abusers convicted of poisoning dogs, burning cows with acid, and other shocking acts of cruelty, a paltry fine under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act is hardly a penalty at all,” says PETA India Campaigns Coordinator Atharva Deshmukh. “PETA India and compassionate citizens request Prime Minister Modi to ensure that animal abusers receive punishments proportionate with their crimes.”
PETA India recommends that perpetrators of animal abuse undergo psychiatric evaluation and receive counselling, as abusing animals indicates a deep psychological disturbance. Research shows that people who commit acts of cruelty to animals are often repeat offenders who move on to hurting other animals, including humans. A study published in Forensic Research & Criminology International Journal stated, “Those who engage in cruelty to animals were [three] times more likely to commit other crimes, including murder, rape, robbery, assault, harassment, threats, and drug/substance abuse.”
PETA India – whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way” – opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview.

 

 

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Bank of Baroda launches ‘Baroda Mahila Swavalamban’ and ‘Baroda Smart OD’ to enhance lending to MSMEs

Bank of Baroda launches ‘Baroda Mahila Swavalamban’ and ‘Baroda Smart OD’ to enhance lending to MSMEs
Mumbai, India: In line with the Government of India’s initiative to facilitate financing to the MSME sector, Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, has augmented its loan offerings for MSMEs with the introduction of two new offerings namely ‘Baroda Mahila Swavalamban’, a loan scheme with unique features especially for women entrepreneurs and ‘Baroda Smart OD’, an innovative digital overdraft facility that provides quick short-term working capital finance to GST-registered MSMEs using an alternative credit assessment method based on their digital footprint. Baroda Smart OD employs Straight-Through Processing up to the sanction stage.
Shri Lal Singh, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “Bank of Baroda is committed to addressing the financing needs of MSMEs, empowering key business segments such as women-led businesses and young entrepreneurs. The launch of Baroda Mahila Swavalamban and Baroda Smart OD are aligned with the government’s push to create a more inclusive financial ecosystem and will provide simplified and seamless access to capital that will drive sustainable economic growth.”
‘Baroda Mahila Swavalamban’ aims to encourage and support women entrepreneurs by providing them hassle-free loans to enable them to undertake diverse income generating activities, thus fostering economic growth and employment opportunities.
Key features of Baroda Mahila Swavalamban:
· Competitive Rate of Interest: The rate of interest starts at as low as BRLLR – i.e. 9.15% at present, which is a best-in-class offering across the industry.
· Loan Limits: Financing options ranging from ₹20 lakh to ₹7.5 crore.
· Relaxed Margin requirements: Margin norms have been relaxed for Capex loans.
· Relaxed Collateral Security Requirement: For loans up to Rs 5.00 crore, no additional collateral security is required if secured by CGTMSE guarantee (Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises).
· Processing Charges: 50% rebate.
· Higher Repayment Period: Maximum 120 Months including moratorium period.
· Eligible Entities & Target Group: UDYAM and GST-registered enterprises owned by women/majority stake (i.e. minimum 51%) owned by women complying with the MSME guidelines (as defined under the MSMED Act 2006 and revised from time to time by GOI) are eligible to be financed under this scheme.
Both existing and new Bank of Baroda customers can apply for the Baroda Mahila Swavalamban scheme through all Bank of Baroda branches across the country.
‘Baroda Smart OD’ leverages the digital footprint available in the form of GST returns filed by individual/proprietorship current account holders of the Bank for credit assessment, enabling the Bank to offer quick and easy access to a line of credit to enterprising individuals. With overdraft amounts ranging from Rs 0.50 lakh to Rs 25 lakh, customers can conveniently avail Baroda Smart OD to meet short-term financial obligations in their business. The loan sanction process is fully digital, post which borrowers need to visit the branch for documentation and account activation.
Key features of Baroda Smart OD:
· Purpose: To provide short-term working capital finance to existing GST-registered individual/ proprietorship current account holders of the Bank.
· Type of Facility: Overdraft facility.
· Overdraft Amount: From Rs 0.50 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.
· Tenure: 12 months.
· Rate of Interest: 10.00% p.a. onwards.
· Processing Charges: Special rebate in processing charges.
· Straight-Through Processing (STP): Straight-through Processing up to sanction stage.

 

 

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Top CSR Projects in Delhi

CSR in Delhi
Delhi, as the capital city of India, holds a unique position on the national stage. As the political and economic epicentre of India, it offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges, making it an ideal location for businesses aiming to create a positive impact on society. Additionally, Delhi’s diverse population, encompassing affluence and poverty, urban and rural areas, mirrors India’s broader socio-economic spectrum.
In the financial year 2023, the Union Territory of Delhi garnered an impressive Rs. 1483.72 Crores in CSR funding from 2874 companies, solidifying its position as a preferred destination for corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in India. Delhi’s appeal to corporations can be attributed to various factors.
During FY 23, the primary areas of CSR focus in Delhi were Education, Healthcare and the Environment, with notable expenditures of Rs. 576.11 Crores, Rs. 554.52 Crores, and Rs. 116.9 Crores, respectively. These priorities reflect the acknowledgement by corporations of the pressing needs in these areas within the city.
Leading the CSR efforts in Delhi were corporate giants, with the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited contributing an impressive Rs. 233.43 Crores, followed by the Infosys Limited with Rs. 99.83 Crores, and the Power Finance Corporation Limited, which allocated Rs. 51.94 Crores to CSR initiatives in the Union Territory.
As Delhi continues to attract CSR investments, it is crucial to delve into the initiatives and projects that are making a tangible difference in the lives of its residents. Let us explore the top CSR initiatives in Delhi, highlighting innovative projects, partnerships, and their transformative impact on the local community. From healthcare to education, environmental conservation to skill development, Delhi’s CSR initiatives are poised to leave a lasting impression, reaffirming the Union Territory’s status as a favoured destination for Corporate Social Responsibility.

Top CSR Projects in Delhi

CSR programme on School Hygiene Education launched by Ayushmann Khurrana

Consumer health and hygiene company Reckitt launched the Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme in Delhi in August 2024 under its flagship campaign, Dettol Banega Swasth India. In collaboration with Jagran Pehel, the social initiative arm of Dainik Jagran, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to implement the campaign across MCD schools in 12 zones of Delhi. The initiative aims to reach 4.5 million beneficiaries, including school children, teachers, and parents, encouraging and empowering communities to adopt better WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) behaviors and practices.

Launched by campaign ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana, the Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme will focus on promoting hygiene practices by training teachers and students and raising awareness through various activities in Delhi schools. As part of the campaign, practical sessions will be conducted to educate students on the importance of handwashing. Additionally, hygiene corners equipped with soaps, sanitizers, and handwashes will be installed.

Pediatric Cardiac Care Center established at Balakram MCD Hospital with CSR support

The Child Heart Foundation inaugurated a state-of-the-art pediatric cardiac center earlier this year at Balakram MCD Hospital in the presence of Mayor Shelly Oberoi and MLA, Timarpur, Shri Dilip Pandey. Since its inception, CHF has been able to screen about several 100 thousand children suspected of having heart disease and helped a few hundred of them with surgical treatment.
“We have taken this initiative to provide high-end super specialized pediatric care in a highly vulnerable age group. We hope to provide a holistic approach to the growth of pediatric cardiac care in Delhi by providing specialized, accessible, and timely treatment for children with heart diseases. Furthermore, the OPD will raise community awareness and knowledge about pediatric heart health, creating a more informed and proactive society, and setting a benchmark for similar healthcare initiatives in other regions,” shared Dr. Vikas Kohli, Founder of Child Heart Foundation.

CSR for menstrual hygiene awareness in Delhi

FICCI YFLO Delhi, in partnership with Ujaas, an initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust, conducted a menstrual hygiene awareness drive across 14 sites in Delhi NCR in September 2024. The week-long initiative, designed to raise awareness and break menstrual health taboos, reached over 800 beneficiaries, with 62% of them being women.

CSR of UJAAS and FICCI YFLO

The menstruation drive covered critical topics, including understanding menstruation, menstrual hygiene, product usage and disposal, exercises for pain relief, and combating superstitions. The program also addressed issues such as PCOS/PCOD, menopause, and how to support children during menstruation. The initiative also provided participants with practical tools to manage their menstrual health, with Sirona offering sanitary pads and menstrual cups to all attendees.

CSR for clean drinking water

Consumer electronics brand boat announced a partnership with Shoobhi Foundation in January this year to provide clean and safe drinking water to public and communities across Delhi NCR. This initiative comes under boAt’s CSR umbrella. Through this partnership, boAt will provide financial support to Shoobhi Foundation to enable them to provide clean and safe drinking water, readily accessible to the public.
In this endeavour, water brand, Wahter will act as a distribution partner, providing clean & safe drinking water in bottles to communities via special carts and strollers. Considering the environmental impact of discarded bottles, the brand has decided to use 100% recyclable bottles. By providing access to clean and safe drinking water, this partnership aims to address a critical public health issue and promote the overall well-being of residents in Delhi NCR.
Nissan Akshay Patra

CSR for nourishment

Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd. and The Akshaya Patra Foundation have been working together since January 2023 to support the food & nutritional requirements of the children pursuing their elementary education in Government schools of New Delhi. This collaborative initiative reflects a shared commitment to building a healthier future for the country by fostering a robust and educated human workforce.
As per an announcement made in January this year, 50 lakh meals have been provided to students in 2023, the program has positively impacted over 49,000 students from low-income communities between January and December 2023 and meals have been successfully distributed to over 300 schools as part of the programme’s outreach.

CSR for healthcare

India’s largest power generation company, NTPC Ltd signed an Agreement with All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, on 13th February, 2024 to set up a Patient – Attendant Waiting facility/Shelter within the hospital Campus under NTPC CSR at an estimated cost of Rs. 8 crore.
The proposed facility will facilitate and accommodate approx. 1,000 patients and their attendants every day 24×7. The shelter will have separate and specific need-based space for men, women and physically challenged and equipped with CCTVs, drinking water, centralized pantry Hall, etc. This basic facility will provide security, personal safety & protection from the weather and also helps patients & their escorts to ease stress apart from providing privacy & safety to them.
Another patients’ waiting lounge is being constructed at AIIMS, New Delhi by the Ghaziabad Unit of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), as part of its CSR. BEL-Ghaziabad Unit has recently signed an MoU with AIIMS Delhi for the construction of a patients’ waiting lounge for needy patients and their attendants at an approximate cost of Rs 10 crore. The lounge is being built by BEL-Ghaziabad and to be maintained by AIIMS Delhi. The waiting lounge with a seating capacity of 1,000 would be constructed with pre-fabricated panels and equipped with required amenities and furnishings. Beneficiaries of the facility would comprise patients coming from different parts of India, seeking consultation and treatment for various medical complexities.

CSR for Education

Piramal Foundation completed its three-day annual convocation ceremony of the 15th batch of their Gandhi Fellowship Program on June 12, 2024 in Delhi. Gandhi Fellowship is a 2-year program for the youth to work at the grassroots of India and acquire an in-depth experience across areas of Public Health, Education, Climate Change and Digitization.
This year, 500 Gandhi Fellows graduated after an intensive two-year program, according to an announcement by Piramal Foundation. Their curriculum included activities such as Vipassana meditation to enhance self-awareness and the development of competencies in Nonviolent Communication (NVC), Individual Work Analysis (IWA), and a commitment to excellence. As they move forward, these graduates are well-prepared to become leaders in the development sector, innovative entrepreneurs, or pursue higher education, all the while continuing their mission to drive sustainable social impact.
For the last 15 years, Gandhi Fellowship has empowered young women and men to groom themselves into change leaders who go on to create large-scale social and public systems change, where each fellow is fuelled by the philosophy of “Build Self, Build Nation”. Today, Gandhi Fellows are sparking change across sectors – such as chief ministers’ advisors, social entrepreneurs reshaping the globe, and members of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list.
There is an urgent need for Delhi and its nearby regions to switch to cleaner and renewable sources of energy for both industry and transport

Green Delhi, Clean Delhi

To combat pressing environmental challenges, the “Green Delhi, Clean Delhi” CSR initiative has been spearheaded by the Delhi Environmental Sustainability Coalition, with active participation of corporates such as ITC Limited, Aditya Birla Group, and Larsen & Toubro, among others. Corporations and environmental organisations have joined forces to enhance the city’s environmental sustainability.
The initiative conducts large-scale tree plantation drives to combat air pollution and enhance green cover throughout the city. It promotes responsible waste management practices, encompassing waste segregation, recycling, and waste-to-energy projects. Cleanliness campaigns involving local communities and volunteers contribute to tidying up public spaces, riverbanks, and parks.
Education plays a pivotal role in environmental conservation, and this project supports schools and community centres with resources and training to educate residents, especially children, about the importance of preserving the environment. Moreover, it advocates for the adoption of renewable energy sources in public institutions and low-income areas.
“Green Delhi, Clean Delhi” has resulted in noticeable reductions in pollution levels, improved waste management, and increased greenery, making Delhi a more sustainable and pleasant place to call home.

 

 

CSR News: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Bina Refinery and NGO Smile Train India Bring Smiles to Children with Clefts across Sagar District

CSR News: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Bina Refinery and NGO Smile Train India Bring Smiles to Children with Clefts across Sagar District
New Delhi, India: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), Bina Refinery (BR), has partnered with Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft focused organization, to support life-changing surgeries and build awareness campaigns about cleft lip and palate to underserved communities in the Sagar District of Madhya Pradesh.
The collaboration aims to support around 70 free surgeries by March 2025, alongside awareness activities to educate and engage local populations about clefts, demystify myths and accelerate identification and treatment across 12 tehsils of Sagar district.
The project also includes organizing screening camps to identify cleft patients and organizing workshops with Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA workers) to empower local health workers to identify cases and assist in treatment ensuring long term sustainability of the initiative.
Shirish Chandekar, General Manager (HR) Bina Refinery, shared, “BPCL has always been committed to driving social change and supporting initiatives that uplift the communities we serve. This partnership with Smile Train is an extension of our dedication to improving healthcare in rural and underserved areas. By addressing both medical and awareness gaps, we aim to ensure that children in Sagar district receive the care they need, not only transforming their lives but also raising awareness around cleft conditions across the region.”
Anjali Katoch, Head of Communications and Business Development at Smile Train India expressed gratitude towards BCPL. She said, “Facilitating free, safe and quality cleft treatment is Smile Train India’s priority. This prestigious partnership empowers us to support more cleft surgeries, giving underprivileged children born with clefts the opportunity to lead healthy and full lives. By supporting surgeries and raising awareness among communities and health workers, I am confident that this collaboration will yield transformative results for the region.”
In India, an estimated 35,000 babies are born with a cleft lip and/or palate every year, and hundreds of thousands of children with untreated clefts live in isolation and face difficulties with eating, breathing, hearing, and speaking. This initiative marks a significant step towards improving healthcare access in rural India, where cleft conditions often go untreated due to lack of awareness, medical infrastructure, and financial resources. BPCL’s commitment to this cause reflects its long-standing efforts in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to support sustainable community development.

 

 

 

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सीएम बनने के बाद पहला सिग्नेचर कर, फडणवीस ने दी जीवनदान

सीएम बनने के बाद पहला सिग्नेचर कर, फडणवीस ने दी जीवनदान

Taliban bans women from pursuing nursing and midwifery education in Afghanistan

Taliban bans women from pursuing nursing and midwifery education in Afghanistan
Afghan burqa-clad women hold placards as they protest for their right to education, in Mazar-i-Sharif on August 12, 2023. (Photo by Atef Aryan / AFP)
In a major setback for women’s rights in Afghanistan ever since the Taliban regained power in 2021, female students have been reportedly banned from pursuing nursing and midwifery courses in the country. Noted cricketers from Afghanistan Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi have strongly condemned the move.
As per international media reports, five institutions across Afghanistan said the Taliban had instructed them to close until further notice, and women training as midwives and nurses were ordered not to return to classes Wednesday.
Taliban in Afghanistan, Reuters Photo
This decision was reportedly conveyed in a meeting held on Monday in Kabul between health officials and directors of educational institutes. The decision stems from a directive issued by the Taliban’s supreme leader as per reports. However, the Taliban have neither confirmed the order nor responded to the media reports about the same.
“There is no official letter, but directors were informed during the meeting that women and girls cannot study in these institutes anymore. No reasons were provided—only the leader’s directive and instructions for enforcement,” a public health ministry official who did not wish to be named, told AFP.
In September 2021, a month after reassuming power in Afghanistan, the Taliban had stopped schooling for girls after grade six. They banned women from pursuing higher education universities in December 2022. Medical education, like nursing and midwifery, was one of the few avenues open for women to continue learning in classrooms.


European Union condemns move

The European Union on Thursday condemned the Taliban for violating human rights and women’s access to education and urged the Taliban to reverse the policy. The European Union expressed strong concerns over this decision and its far-reaching implication, including the deepening of the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and the exacerbation of the suffering of its people, as per a statement.

Cricketers Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi react

Noted cricketers from Afghanistan Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi have reacted strongly against the alleged ban on women pursuing courses in nursing and midwifery.
Rashid Khan, Cricketer, Afghanistan
Taking to Instagram stories and X, cricketer Rashid Khan wrote, “Education holds a central place in Islamic teachings, emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge for both men and women. The Quran highlights the importance of learning and acknowledges the equal spiritual worth of both genders.
It is with deep sadness and disappointment that I reflect on the recent closures of educational and medical institutions for the sisters and mothers of Afghanistan. This decision has profoundly affected not only their future but also the broader fabric of our society. The pain and sorrow they express through social media serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles they face.
Afghanistan, our beloved homeland, stands at a critical juncture. The country desperately needs professionals in every field, especially the medical sector. The acute shortage of female doctors and nurses is particularly concerning, as it directly impacts the healthcare and dignity of women. It is essential for our sisters and mothers to have access to care provided by medical professionals who truly understand their needs.
I sincerely appeal for the reconsideration of this decision so that Afghan girls may reclaim their right to education and contribute to the nation’s development. Providing education to all is not just a societal responsibility but a moral obligation deeply rooted in our faith and values.”
Mohammad Nabi, Cricketer, Afghanistan
In an X post, cricketer Mohammad Nabi posted, “The Taliban’s decision to ban girls from studying medicine is not only heartbreaking but deeply unjust. Islam has always emphasised the importance of education for everyone, and history is full of inspiring examples of Muslim women who made vital contributions to many generations through knowledge.
I urge the Taliban to reflect on these values. Denying girls the chance to learn and serve their people is a betrayal of both their dreams and our nation’s future. Let our daughters study, grow, and build a better Afghanistan for everyone. This is their right, and it is our duty to protect it.”
Meanwhile, with girls and women also banned from participating in sports, Afghanistan’s status as an ICC Full Member has come under scrutiny.

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