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April 29, 2025
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Maharashtra Elections 2024: Low voter turnout, celebs urge citizens to vote in Mumbai

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The CSR Journal
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Maharashtra Elections 2024: Low voter turnout, celebs urge citizens to vote in Mumbai
Maharashtra Elections 2024: Low voter turnout, celebs urge citizens to vote in Mumbai
As 288 seats of the Maharashtra legislative assembly undergo voting on Wednesday, celebrities from the world of cinema, sports and politicians stepped out early in the morning to exercise their democratic rights and encouraging citizens to do the same.
Urging voters of the state to fulfil their duty at the Maharashtra Elections 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, “Today, votes will be cast for all the seats of Maharashtra Assembly elections. I urge the voters of the state to be a part of it with full enthusiasm and add to the splendor of the festival of democracy. On this occasion, I appeal to all the youth and women voters to vote in large numbers.”
A total of 4,136 candidates are contesting in the Maharashtra Elections 2024, where voting began as early as 7 am and will continue till 6 pm. Maharashtra has about 9.7 crore including 4.97 crore male voters and 4.66 crore female voters. There are 1.85 crore young voters (18-29), including 20.93 lakh first-time voters (18-19).
In Maharashtra Elections 2024, the battle is between the ruling Mahayuti coalition comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Ajit Pawar-led NCP and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, comprising the Shiv Sena (UBT), the NCP (Sharad Pawar) and the Congress party.

Low voter turnout in Maharashtra, lowest in Mumbai

Maharashtra witnessed a low voter turnout on Wednesday morning with just 45 percent turnout till 3 pm with Mumbai being the lowest at 39 percent. Urging the citizens to cast their vote, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde said, “Today is the festival of democracy and everyone should participate and vote and this will strengthen Maharashtra, democracy.”
Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister, Maharashtra
Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed, “I appeal to everyone that the festival of democracy is going on and participation in democracy is very important. For those who have expectations from their government, it is even more important for them to come out to vote. Everyone should vote.”
Reacting to the low voter turnout in the Maharashtra Elections 2024, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale expressed, “The atmosphere is good but voting percentage is low. It should be increased and people should vote. A law should be made to make voting compulsory…Mahayuti will get 165-170 seats, we will get a clear majority and our government will be formed.”

Celebs vote in Mumbai, urge people to vote

Celebrities stepped out of their homes early in the morning on Wednesday to cast their votes and encourage citizens to do the same. Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, Bollywood stars Akshay Kumar and Rajkummar Rao were among the early voters in Mumbai on Wednesday.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar who was spotted at the polling booth with his wife Anjali and daughter Sara, said, “I have been an icon of the ECI (Election Commission of India) for quite some time now. The message I am giving is to turn up and vote. It is our responsibility. I hope people will take that effort and come and vote. I urge everyone to come and vote.”
Bollywood star Akshay Kumar told the media, “The arrangements for senior citizens are great. Cleanliness has been maintained. I want everyone to come out and cast their votes.”

Rajkummar Rao was spotted at a polling booth in Gyan Kendra Secondary School, Mumbai. “It is our right in a democracy, so it’s important that we step outside and vote. I have performed my duty. It is your turn now. Please vote,” the actor told the press.
Actor and politician Urmila Matomndkar shared a photo on X, flaunting her inked finger and urged citizens to vote for “yourself, your children, your society and your Maharashtra.”
Several other celebrities, including notable Bollywood actors and filmmakers, also voted early in Mumbai on Wednesday. Farhan Akhtar and Zoya Akhtar were spotted voting at a polling station in Bandra.
“It is the responsibility of every citizen to go out and vote. It’s very important for the country. Don’t celebrate it as a holiday. Go and vote,” said actor Sonu Sood after he cast his vote.
Actor couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza cast their votes at a polling station in Latur. While speaking to the media, actor Deshmukh showed confidence in Maha Vikas Aghadi’s victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections.
Musician Vishal Dadlani also appealed to people to come out of their homes and vote. He said, “This is your state, your country. If there is love for the state and country, please come and cast your votes.”
Film directors Kabir Khan and Zoya Akhtar, Subhash Ghai, actors Ali Fazal and John Abraham, and filmmaker and actor Farhan Akhtar too came out early to cast votes and fulfill their duty.
Lyricist Gulzar was spotted with his daughter filmmaker Meghna Gulzar at a polling booth in Mumbai. The veteran lyricist expressed, “People eagerly wait to turn 18 so that they can exercise their right to vote. Choosing a government is their right. And it is the responsibility of the media to ensure that youngsters come out to vote… The glamorous gifts which are being promised to the common man in return for votes, should not be done. The common man will not be lured and they know their real issues.”
After casting his vote, actor Kartik Aaryan said, “Please cast your vote, this is very important.”
Veteran actor Prem Chopra shared, “The arrangements at the polling booth are very nice… Even though I had the option of voting from home, I still came here to cast my vote like everyone else.”
Veteran actor Anupam Kher said, “Everything is very well organised… The officials are very nice to everyone… There is no bigger celebration in an independent country than elections… The common man keeps in mind his daily needs before he casts his vote… If someone does not vote today, they have the right to raise complaints over the next five years… Voting is cool. Be cool.”
Actor Tushar Kapoor urged people to vote saying, “Many people don’t vote because they have no interest in politics. But we should feel proud of our city and our country and we should never give up on democracy. This is the least we can do… Every vote matters.”

 

 

CSR News: Delivery of 25 New Homes to Low Income Families in Haryana through CSR

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The CSR Journal
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CSR News: Delivery of 25 New Homes to Low Income Families in Haryana through CSR
CSR News: Delivery of 25 New Homes to Low Income Families in Haryana through CSR
Bringing new hope to families in need, Habitat for Humanity India and Max Estates have successfully completed the initial phase of their joint affordable housing initiative in Rewari district of Haryana. The first 25 homes in Aakera village are now ready and this milestone was celebrated with a handover ceremony in Aakera in the presence of 25 new homeowners, Kumar Alok Shubham, Head – Human Capital, Max Estates Limited and Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director, Habitat for Humanity India. 
For families who previously lacked access to decent, liveable conditions and lived in inadequate housing, the completion of 25 new homes marks a transformative milestone. This achievement holds profound meaning, as it represents the realisation of their long-held dreams and the restoration of hope.
Commenting on the completion of the phase 1 of the project, Anand Kumar Bolimera, National Director of Habitat for Humanity India, said, “Witnessing the joy on the faces of these 25 families as they hold the keys to their new homes is a humbling and deeply rewarding experience. Each of these homes represents so much more than just a physical structure. It is a symbol of dignity, security, and the opportunity for these families to build a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones. We are honoured to partner with Max Estates in uplifting communities and creating lasting change.”
Echoing these sentiments, Sahil Vachani, Vice Chairman and M.D., Max Estates Limited stated, “At Max Estates, we are deeply committed to Sevabhav — fostering a culture of service and making a positive difference to the quality of life of others and society at large. We believe that access to safe, comfortable housing is not just a necessity but a fundamental human right. Through our partnership with Habitat for Humanity India, we have had the privilege of extending our LiveWell philosophy to those in need by making a meaningful difference in the lives of families in Haryana. Witnessing the gratitude and empowerment radiating from these new homeowners reaffirms the transformative power of collaboration. Together, we have taken a step toward addressing the urgent need for affordable housing, proving that collective action can truly make a lasting difference.“
Construction on the second phase of the project is set to begin immediately in Bhudla village, where an additional 25 homes will be built. This phase is scheduled for completion in November 2025, bringing the total impact to 50 families across two villages in Rewari district of Haryana. The success of this project serves as a powerful example of how cross-sector partnerships can effectively address pressing social issues and create meaningful, long-term impact in communities.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

Democratic Teacher’s Initiative Unite at Delhi’s Press Club

By
Nitya Choubey
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Democratic Teacher’s Initiative Unite at Delhi’s Press Club
Democratic Teacher’s Initiative Unite at Delhi’s Press Club
Students and teachers of various universities gathered at Delhi’s Press Club on Sunday afternoon to fight back against the decision of the Ambedkar University administration to dismiss two of their university professors. Under the banners of the ‘Democratic Teacher’s Initiative’ and ‘All India Student’s Association’, the students and teaching staff gathered at the event condemned the decision to terminate, with immediate effect, the employment of Professor Salil Mishra and Professor Amita Kabra for their role in regularization of 38 non-teaching staff who dedicated themselves to the building of the university in its earlier years. This non-teaching staff became part of the university through the ‘one-time absorption policy’ following long-standing demands of AUD teaching and non-teaching staff to make them permanent.

A Gathering of Dissent

Many student organizations, such as the All India Student Association or AISA, helped in conducting the gathering. AISA understands the termination of both professors as autocratic and of grave concern for all involved in academia. While Professor Salil Mishra was to retire from his service at the university within eight months, Professor Amita had already resigned but was not released by the administration.
This termination of permanent faculty members of AUD follows a series of other similar instances in various central universities like Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University. Professors who do not identify themselves with the ruling dispensation, or ideological stance complain about being categorically identified and attacked. this attack can be in the form of a verbal warning from the office or a show cause notice, like in the case of Professor Ravi Kumar, Professor Snehashish, and Professor Irfanullah of the South Asian University. Similarly, professors like Laxman Yadav, Rituparna, Brahma Prakash and Seema Baidya are other such names from DU and JNU. The list also includes the 2023 alleged institutional killing (suicide) of Professor Samanveer, a student and ad hoc professor at Hindu College of DU(temporary basis).
According to Ambedkar University, the decision to terminate faculty members occurred after a thorough investigation and enquiry by the Directorate of Higher Education, the government of NCT of Delhi. This investigation produced several irregularities, including unauthorised appointments which led to the ultimate termination of the two professors.

 

At the Press Club

Many professors joined the solidarity meeting cum press conference on Sunday, like Professor Sandhya D Nambiar and Professor Atul Sood, faculty at the University of Delhi, and Professor Ravindran Gopinath of Jamia Millia Islamia.
During the closing remarks, Gopalji Pradhan, vice president of the Aud faculty association, said that the termination is a direct attack on the entire public education system. This attack reduces the university from a place of descent and discussion to a hostile one. It also attacks the first pillar of the Ambedkarite philosophy: Educate, Agitate, and Ignite.
The regulation of university staff has been a long-standing demand of teaching and non-teaching members of various universities. Despite no evidence of corruption or financial irregularities found, a report by Dr GS Patnaik’s committee absolved all administrators involved in the termination decision. The new committee set up by the university Board of Management also could not provide any proof to support the termination. Yet, the second report termed the two professors’ actions as ‘conduct unbecoming of a public servant’.
The event concluded with remarks from Saiyed, an AUD student from Kashmir and an active member of the campus unit of AISA. “We conducted this gathering to bring out what is happening inside AUD and to register solidarity with all the public universities who have started to treat professors as contractual workers.”, said Saiyed.
What is also surprising is the inactivity of the Delhi government on the issue. In the present times, the public image of a central university is being shifted from a sensitive space of critical thinking to an in-tolerance space with political hooliganism. This has pushed parents and students to take up private colleges over public universities, benefiting business houses and making education a private enterprise.

PM E-DRIVE Scheme a Step Towards Solving India’s Pollution Problem

By
Nitya Choubey
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PM E-DRIVE Scheme a Step Towards Solving India’s Pollution Problem
PM E-DRIVE Scheme a Step Towards Solving India’s Pollution Problem
As the various metropolitans inside India are trapped in thick smoke that is making it almost impossible to breathe, the government is all set to launch the final guidelines for the distribution of ₹200 crore incentive under the new PM E-DRIVE scheme. The Ministry of Heavy Industries, Govt. of India, along with the approval from the union cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister together launched a scheme called Pradhan Mantri Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement or PM E-DRIVE scheme on September 29, 2024.  The scheme will be in effect from October 1, 2024, till March 31, 2026. The scheme rolls out with an outlay of ₹10,900 crores for over two years, out of which ₹2000 crore will only be dedicated towards setting up charging infrastructure. 
The scheme aims to support the installation of public electric vehicles or EV charging stations for the convenience of those owning an electric vehicle. Alongside, the ministry will also release a detailed guideline for the implementation of the scheme to boost domestic production of electric cars. Electric vehicles have also attracted investment from global EV markets. 

What Do the Draft Guidelines Say

Hanif Qureshi, the additional secretary at the Ministry of Heavy Industries said on Tuesday that the ministry has included a number of stakeholder consultations to frame a draft guideline for electric vehicles. These guidelines have also been shared with state governments and ministries, of which the feedback is awaited.
“Basically, there will be a committee formed in each state at the level of chief secretary, where the demand for charges in the state will be aggregated. Each state will also be sending a proposal to the Ministry of Heavy Industries, and then both will be sanctioned.”, adds Qureshi.
The distribution of incentives will depend on parameters like the number of EVs in a city, vehicular traffic, pollution, population density, etc. Qureshi, while addressing a press conference on Tuesday, said, “We will be prioritizing on the basis of whether the state has an EV policy or not, whether they have some of their own incentives or not. Because we may receive proposals that are in excess of ₹2000 crore.” 
The final incentives will be allocated for upstream infrastructure developed by electricity distribution companies or DISCOMs, under the scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI), which is set to roll out within the next few weeks after being notified in March this year. This comes as many DISCOMs are facing financial challenges. The scheme works very interestingly, as it tries to enhance domestic manufacturing by incentivising manufacturers directly. This scheme essentially lowers input duties from a hundred per cent to only fifteen per cent on car models costing more than $35,000, if its manufacturer promises to invest up to 500 million dollars in setting up a local factory in India.
The scheme will also help provide Indian consumers access to the latest technology while also boosting the Make in India initiative. If the scheme rolls out well, it will strengthen the EV ecosystem by promoting healthy competition amongst domestic and private global players. Addedly, it will reduce the import of crude oil and will release residents of many Indian metropolitans from excessive coughing because of pollution.

What We Lack

The PM E-DRIVE scheme not only supports 25 thousand electric two-wheelers, three lakh electric three-wheelers and 14,000 electric buses but also has given equal footing to setting up public electric vehicle charging stations. However, if compared to the predecessor scheme FAME-2, the incentives this time are significantly lesser. 
Clarifying the same, Hanif Qureshi says, “One school of thought, believes that no incentives should be given to electric vehicles in the shape of upfront demand subsidy. Rather, there should be tax benefits, and there should be adequate charging infrastructure. If adequate charging is there and people do not have any anxiety it will make life easier for them and they will buy EVs on their own and partly. This is what we have adopted in the PM E-DRIVE scheme.”
Even though the subsidy on buying an electric vehicle has been reduced, the incentive for setting up charging infrastructure outlay has been pushed from one to two crores in this year’s scheme. Also, a tentative list of the top 40 cities and top 50 highways with high-density traffic will help locate the best spots for charging stations. Chargers for two and three-wheelers will be around 48,000 and for buses and trucks, there will be about 1800 charges.

Early Warning, Early Action: Reliance Foundation – UN India convening brings experts, ideas together in Odisha

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The CSR Journal
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Early Warning, Early Action: Reliance Foundation – UN India convening brings experts, ideas together in Odisha
Early Warning, Early Action: Reliance Foundation – UN India convening brings experts, ideas together in Odisha
Building new ideas to strengthen early action during disasters, Reliance Foundation and the United Nations India convened stakeholders from the Global South to deliberate multi-hazard, multi-stakeholder approaches to early warning, here today.
The Odisha convening, titled ‘Early Warning to Early Action – A Multi-Hazard, Multi- Stakeholder Approach: Learning from Coastal Ecosystems’, is the first in a series of convenings that Reliance Foundation and the UN India are organising. The gathering highlighted Odisha’s leadership in early warning and early action in a disaster-prone coastal area with focus on livelihoods and gender.
Experts from state and national disaster management agencies including the National Disaster Management Authority, India Meteorological Department and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, UN organisations, researchers, policy experts, academia and non- governmental organisations were part of in-depth discussions.
Reliance Foundation UN CSR
Left to right: Mr. Jagannatha Kumar, CEO, Reliance Foundation demonstrates the work of Reliance Foundation to Shri. Suresh Pujari, Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management, Government of Odisha and Mr. Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator for India at the Early Warning to Early Action convening in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
The Chief Guest at the convening, Mr. Suresh Pujari, Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management, Government of Odisha, said, “We are working collectively to further strengthen early warning systems, and we are happy that Odisha has been chosen as the first state to start this series of deliberations. The Odisha government works with various stakeholders on minimising the intensity of natural disasters. We will be working with the UN, Reliance Foundation and all other stakeholders for suggestions and technological assistance. We request the organisations we work with to find ways to integrate disaster prediction with information analysis for greater accuracy in early warnings.”
“As climate change drives more extreme events, there is a need to strengthen impact-based forecasting to ensure it translates more effectively to local action. We have witnessed the lifesaving potential of early warnings while serving communities during cyclones, floods, and other extreme events. India is pioneering knowledge advancement in rapidly advancing early warning systems. We have been driving innovative solutions in early warning systems through extensive use of technology and approaches for effective reach and impact. The convening series, being organised by Reliance Foundation and the United Nations in India office, aims to work collectively with various stakeholders to realise the goal of translating knowledge into local action,” said Mr. Jagannatha Kumar, CEO, Reliance Foundation.
“Answering the UN Secretary-General’s call for Early Warning for All across the world, the convening today organised by the UN in partnership with Reliance Foundation is the first in a series of convenings on DRR. We’re also showcasing the Government of Odisha’s leadership in Early Warning Systems for disaster response, a crucial story to tell and an opportunity to share best practices and knowledge with other states and countries in the Global South. The UN remains committed to supporting these efforts through our various agencies, working closely with the government, civil society, and partners like Reliance Foundation to strengthen Early Warning Systems and build community resilience,” said Mr. Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator for India.
Experts focussed on the present advancements in early warning systems, sharing varied perspectives on challenges and ways to strengthen early action, including deliberating approaches to future-proof disaster preparedness in the panel discussions ‘Current State of EWS and Early Action: Assessing effectiveness’ and ‘Future Proofing and Innovation towards Integrated Early Warning System’. The sessions also underscored the need for multi-hazard approaches and integration of socio-demographic information with meteorological data for targeted early action messaging.
Through discussions focussed on learnings from recent implementation of early warning systems in coastal states, youth and child-led disaster risk reduction initiatives and integration of livelihood protection along with early warning systems.
The convening facilitated South-South knowledge exchange with experts from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh sharing their best practices and highlighting the importance of strengthening collaborations. The panellists also reflected on pre-convening field visits to villages in Balasore and Bhadrak districts to see the work of Reliance Foundation and the UN India, in collaboration with the administration. A curated walk at the convening helped delegates experience innovations and further enhanced the knowledge exchange process on the country’s efforts to strengthen early warning and action.
The Early Warning to Early Action convening series aims to document best practices, identify innovations, and deliver impactful policy-level outcomes to save more lives and livelihoods.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

CSR News: Reaching out to 10,000 students across Tamil Nadu through Zeb-Tech CSR initiative

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The CSR Journal
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CSR News: Reaching out to 10,000 students across Tamil Nadu through Zeb-Tech CSR initiative
CSR News: Reaching out to 10,000 students across Tamil Nadu through Zeb-Tech CSR initiative
As part of Zebronics’ ongoing Doctrine of Care philosophy, Zeb Tech continues to foster inquisitive thinking and inspire young minds across India. Through an array of competitions and interactive sessions, Zeb Tech promotes curiosity and engagement with a variety of subjects and arts, designed to ignite passion and enhance knowledge among students. In the last 2 quarters of this year alone the initiative has reached over100+ schools nationwide; covering 60+ schools in Tamil Nadu and Chennai positively impacting over 10,000 students in Tamil Nadu and over 15,000 students PAN India.
Through an array of competitions, Zeb Tech promotes inquisitive thinking among school students, igniting interest in a variety of subjects and the arts. Activities are carefully segmented by age group, that are tailored to students’ unique learning needs and enabling them to develop skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking. A recent highlight of the program was a series of quiz competitions, where students demonstrated impressive knowledge and collaborative spirit, making the event a memorable and rewarding experience.
Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Rajesh Doshi, Co-Founder & Director of Zebronics, said, “Zeb Tech is more than just a CSR initiative for us. At Zebronics, we believe learning should be engaging and enjoyable, which drives our efforts through Zeb Tech. By connecting directly with students through interactive activities like quizzes, arts & crafts, and more, we aim to spark curiosity and foster essential skills.
 Our goal is to make knowledge accessible in a way that resonates with young minds, inspiring them to develop a lifelong love for learning and stay ‘Always Ahead’.”
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

CSR News: Jane Goodall Institute’s India Youth Council Programme Launched

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The CSR Journal
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CSR News: Jane Goodall Institute’s India Youth Council Programme Launched
CSR News: Jane Goodall Institute’s India Youth Council Programme Launched
Godrej Industries Group has announced the launch of Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) India’s Youth Council Programme.
Launched in presence of Burjis Godrej, Executive Director, Godrej Agrovet Limited and Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist & anthropologist. Council members from across India will run their own self-directed initiatives and provide input across program initiation and related communications through the Roots & Shoots program. Roots & Shoots, a program of the JGI, is a global movement that aims to bring together the youth from all walks of life for one goal – the betterment of our environment.
Commenting on the launch, Burjis Godrej who will serve as a mentor for the initiative said, “We are excited to inaugurate, the JGI’s India Youth Advisory Council. Rooted in empathy and kindness, this council stands for every act of goodness, whether it’s protecting our environment, advancing animal welfare, or supporting any cause that makes a positive difference.”
“As ambassadors of JGI India, these young leaders will design and launch community-centered projects, advocate for worthy causes, and inspire others through their compassion and action. Supported by mentors and experts, they will grow into empathetic leaders, ready to make a difference wherever it’s needed. Today, we celebrate the beginning of their journey, and we look forward to seeing the kindness and impact they will bring into the world”, he further added.
 
Addressing the gathering Dr. Jane Goodall, Founder of JGI, shared that despite the consistent degradation of our planet, we saw hope in four things – the ability of nature to revive itself, the power of the human brain, the indomitable human spirit and above all, the power of youth.
She said, “It’s young people who truly give me hope. When these individuals understand what’s wrong and choose to make a difference, change will be initiated . While they can’t  make everything right. Even if they chose one goal which they care about and try to get their friends together and work on it, there will be a visible positive impact.”
Dr. Jane Goodall also facilitated Roots & Shoots mentors Valerie Mascarenhas, Principal Don Bosco School, Mumbai and Vandana Pandey, Principal, Yash Vidya Mandir, Ayodhya who had created exemplary youth-led programmes in their schools.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

Kotak Mahindra Bank CSR Report: Empowering Indians through Education

By
Hency Thacker
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The Kotak Mahindra Bank has been in business for 21 years now. The bank has a wide reach with about 1,869 branches across the country. It also has a presence outside India in Singapore, London, the USA and the Middle East. The Bank has cemented its distinctive status through unique offerings and services, e.g. its industry-leading differentiated interest rate strategy on savings accounts; and India’s first video-based KYC savings account that serves the twin purpose of convenience and contactless opening of an 811 account in a highly digitised post-COVID ‘new normal’.
Kotak Mahindra Bank is conscious of the interdependencies between its economic activities and the ecosystem it operates in. Therefore, it has ensured that Environmental Social Governance (ESG) philosophy goes beyond a set of policies and practices and is an integral element of the culture of the bank.
The Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programmes are largely long-term, implemented in focused geographies, are sustainable and scalable, and aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and India’s development priorities.
Over the years, the bank has increased its CSR expenditure. In FY 2023-2024, the firm spent Rs. 230.81 crores for its CSR initiatives which was more than the prescribed amount as mandated by law.

1. Kotak Mahindra Bank CSR

Kotak Mahindra Bank believes in positively contributing to the economic, environmental and social well-being of communities through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda. The key areas of focus of CSR projects of Kotak Mahindra Bank are education, livelihood, healthcare, environment and sustainable development and sports. The Bank identifies suitable NGOs partners to carry out these programmes. It focuses on implementing programmes that are sustainable, scalable and can be implemented across various locations with measurable and sustainable impacts amongst the community.

2. CSR Policy

Kotak Mahindra Bank has established a Board-level Corporate Social Responsibility Committee which is responsible for monitoring, reviewing and approving CSR initiatives and expenditure. The Committee makes recommendations to the Board on CSR policy and related matters. As per the CSR policy, Kotak Mahindra Bank, at all times, is committed to:
Engage with communities to understand their material expectations and concerns, and will consider these material expectations and concerns to design its CSR agenda.
Implement, monitor, review and evaluate CSR initiatives to achieve the desired outcomes in a transparent manner.
Undertake projects in the areas of promoting education, enhancing vocational skills and livelihood, promoting preventive healthcare and sanitation, reducing inequalities faced by socially and economically backward groups, sustainable development, relief and rehabilitation, and interventions towards a cleaner India under Swachh Bharat Mission with the aim to serve communities at large and to transform their lives.
Partner with government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other institutions to collectively deliver the community development initiatives and support such organizations and institutions with appropriate and necessary resources.
Encourage its employees to contribute and volunteer for various community development initiatives.
Ensure that surplus arising out of CSR initiatives is utilized to further augment the CSR agenda and does not form part of the Bank’s profits.
Comply with all legal provisions applicable for CSR and adopt industry best practices, where feasible.

3. Kotak CSR Initiatives in Education and Livelihood

Kotak Mahindra Bank implements its CSR programmes on Education and Livelihood through Kotak Education Foundation (KEF). The foundation supports children & youth from underprivileged families through different education and livelihood based interventions to help them rise above the poverty line & lead a life of dignity through sustainable processes.

Through the foundation, Kotak works in various sub-areas to conduct many initiatives.

3.1 Improving Learning Outcomes in Schools

Kotak Education Foundation focuses on improving learning outcomes among students through capacity building for teachers, promoting digital education, supporting learning needs of children in schools as well as in their communities, and development of infrastructure.
KEF works across 160+ schools in Maharashtra and Gujarat, in areas such as school leadership, foundational literacy, numeracy, digital learning, teacher training and communicative English. The organisation has collaborated with various implementing partners to enable access to vernacular content in Science to government schools in rural UP. It has also trained next generation education who have initiated the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching. Through the Girl Child Education project, KEF is supporting mainstreaming of 3,000+ girls who dropped out of formal schooling. Apart from these initiatives, KEF has also been supporting early childhood education in Balwadis and through Creches at construction sites.

Project Science Programme

The Khan Academy’s Science Program, supported by Kotak Mahindra Bank, plans to reach about 700 Kasturba Gandhi
Balika Vidyalaya’s (an all-girls residential school for girls from disadvantaged communities) and 1,500+ Madhyamik schools in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
The CSR project leverages NCERT aligned core science content offering for Grades 9-12 which was created with support of the Bank and customised in accordance with UPSCERT. During the project period, KAI Science Program was rolled out in 698 school, reaching over 59,000 students. KAI trained more than 750 teachers, 70 District Coordinators, and more than 100 science mentor teachers. KAI track the progress using the Skills to Proficiency (STP) metric on the Khan Academy platform, recommending 30 minutes of use per week. The project operates at the unique intersection of technology, gender and capacity building of public school systems.

3.2 Supporting Higher Education

Kotak Education Foundation has supported about 3300 students through scholarship programmes. The organisation’s Kotak Shiksha Nidhi initiative provides financial aid to students that have lost a primary earning member of their family to COVID-19. Kotak Kanya is another program which supports the career aspirations of meritorious girls from underprivileged financial backgrounds.
Kotak Kanya
Kotak Education Foundation announces scholarships under Kotak Kanya
In addition, KEF has been supporting higher education and research that cater to the short term and long term needs of India. For example, KEF has been supporting Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to establish a Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI-ML Centre) in Bengaluru since FY 2021-22.
Furthermore, Kotak Education Foundation has extended its support to IIT Kanpur to launch Kotak School of Sustainability, a one-of-a-kind, inter-disciplinary school with an aim to propel sustainability education. It is India’s first integrated School of sustainability with a vision to promote pedigree education, research and outreach. This school is poised to offer thought leadership solutions towards sustainability actions and prepare future generations to take lead on sustainable development. The school brings together departments and centres of excellence at IIT Kanpur with an aim to provide an enabling environment for collaborative research across multiple facets of sustainability such as clean energy, environment, ecology, circular economy, climate finance, sustainable societies and policy.

3.3 Skill Development

Kotak Mahindra Bank supports multiple organisations to provide sector specific skill development to youths to enhance their employability. In FY 2023-24, over 13,200 youths were trained, of which 60% were either successfully placed with different organisations or became entrepreneurs.
Vocational Training Kotak CSR
Kotak Education Foundation announced new Vocational Education Skilling Centre in Dapodi, Pune
The organisation also worked with multiple agencies to provide sector specific skill training to over 2,000 Persons with Disabilities (PwD). In FY2023- 24, nearly 1500 people were placed in different organisations, making them financially independent.

3.4 Entrepreneurship

Kotak Mahindra Bank has actively promoted entrepreneurship amongst women (including those from tier-2 and tier-3 Indian cities) through Women’s Startup Programme that is managed by IIM Bangalore. Around 269 ventures led by women were nurtured through mentoring and advisory support under this initiative.

3.5 Promoting Rural Livelihoods

Kotak is implementing various initiatives focused on agriculture, livestock and Non-Timber Forest Product, aiming to improve income for farmers. Through multiple organisations, the Bank has benefitted over 12,500 farmers in FY2023-24.

4. Kotak CSR Initiatives for Healthcare

Kotak Mahindra Bank has three sub-areas that comprise its CSR initiatives in healthcare. They are: addressing gaps in the cancer care spectrum, improving access to healthcare and improving infrastructure for healthcare.

4.1 Addressing gaps in cancer care

Kotak’s interventions in cancer care span across earlier detection, treatment support (including accommodation and nutrition) and hospice care. Through various collaborations, Kotak Mahindra Bank was able to aid more than 5,900 cancer patients in FY 2023–24, of which 4,100 were paediatric patients.

4.2 Improving access to healthcare

Kotak Mahindra Bank works to provide access to affordable healthcare facilities to rural communities and low-income households through mobile medical vans, eye check-up camps and oral cancer screening camps under its CSR interventions. The organisation was able to reach 3.3 lakh beneficiaries for primary healthcare and 1.2+ lakh through eye care camps, surgery and treatment that included school students and senior citizens.
The Bank has also conducted Oral Cancer Screening camps at six markets under the Agricultural Produce Market Committee and also for police personnel in Mumbai. Through various initiatives, it has also provided early interventions, rehabilitation and mobility solutions for PwDs and supported treatment of over 6,700 children with clubfoot in 45 districts of Uttar Pradesh.

5. Environment and Sustainable Development

Kotak Mahindra Bank uses ecosystem restoration approach to support initiatives that replenish water, reduce carbon and benefit communities.

5.1 Enhancing Water Security

In rural areas, the Bank has worked with around 9,000 farmers and their communities in water-stressed regions across India. The main purpose of these interventions is to build water security and improve crop production through soil and water conservation measures and de-siltation of traditional water reservoirs. About ~6,000 Ha of land has been positively impacted under this program and a water harvesting capacity of 340 crore litres has been created. These measures along with the income diversification efforts is expected to improve the incomes of these farmers approximately 30 per cent.
In urban areas, waterbodies are often at risk of encroachment, illegal waste dumping and degradation. To address some of these risks, Kotak Mahindra Bank is rejuvenating 5 lakes and a 0.8 km stretch of a creek by clearing garbage and weeds. This restoration is across a total area of ~370 acres and is expected to act as a microhabitat for biodiversity and a recreational space for community to connect with nature.

6. Sports

Kotak Mahindra Bank has partnered with Pullela Gopichand Badminton Foundation to develop a world-class badminton training facility in Hyderabad. In FY 2023-24, the Bank supported 30 Athletes with training, nutrition, sports science and other mental and physical wellbeing related services through this collaboration.
Kotak Mahindra Bank CSR Sports
Kotak Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy – a World-Class Badminton Training Centre in Gachibowli, Telangana
Additionally, Kotak Mahindra Bank partnered with the Inspire Institute of Sport, to implement a Boxing training programme. 100+ junior and elite boxers were supported under the programme who won 90 medals across domestic and international competitions.

Conclusion

Kotak Mahindra Bank follows a practical, effective and scalable approach with utmost transparency in both – its business operations as well as CSR initiatives. Kotak Mahindra Bank’s CSR is highly aligned with the UN SDGs, which helps in the holistic development of the Indian Society.

Animal cruelty: Two booked for abusing Indian Python following PETA India’s intervention in Noida

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The CSR Journal
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Animal cruelty: Two booked for abusing Indian Python following PETA India’s intervention in Noida
Animal cruelty: Two booked for abusing Indian Python following PETA India’s intervention in Noida
Gautam Buddha Nagar, India: Acting on a video depicting the abuse of an Indian Python for entertainment, a species protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India collaborated with the Gautam Buddh Nagar Forest Division for a preliminary offence report (POR) to be registered. The python has now been rescued and safely released back into the wild.

The incident occurred during an event in ATS HomeKraft Happy Trails Society, Sector 10, Greater Noida – 201 318 on 6 October. During it, the python’s head was forced between the teeth of an accused’s mouth, clamping the snake’s jaw between his teeth. The POR was registered against two individuals under sections 9, 39, 48, 49 and 51 of the WPA, 1972. The offence is non-bailable and punishable with a jail term of at least three years, which may extend to seven years, and a fine of at least ₹25,000.

“We commend Shri Ramesh Chandra, IFS, Conservator of Forest, Meerut Circle, and Shri Pramod Kumar Srivastava, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Gautam Buddha Nagar Division, for registering the POR and sending a clear message that cruelty to animals will not be tolerated,” says Virendra Singh, Cruelty Response Coordinator at PETA India. “The best way to revere snakes is to leave them alone in their jungle homes. Using snakes in roadside shows is cruel, illegal, and disrespectful.”

Snakes are trapped and taken from their natural habitats to be used for entertainment and kept as “pets,” disregarding the WPA, 1972. Their teeth are often violently yanked out and their venom glands emptied for species who are venomous. In many cases, their mouths are sewn shut, leaving only a tiny gap into which liquid can be poured. Captured snakes do not live very long, and their death is slow and painful.

 

 

Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

 

 

 

CSR News: Power company hosts Urja Mela in Odisha, involving students from over 500 schools to promote energy conservation and sustainability

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The CSR Journal
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CSR News: Power company hosts Urja Mela in Odisha, involving students from over 500 schools to promote energy conservation and sustainability
CSR News: Power company hosts Urja Mela in Odisha, involving students from over 500 schools to promote energy conservation and sustainability
In a testament to its commitment to promoting energy conservation and adoption of clean energy, Tata Power hosted the first-ever State-Level Urja Mela in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, bringing together over 470 students from across Odisha. Serving as a precursor to Tata Power’s national Urja Mela annually conducted during National Energy Conservation Week, this event was part of the company’s Club Enerji initiative, which promotes sustainability through hands-on activities, experiential learning, and inclusive participation.
Over the past three years, Club Enerji’s footprint in Odisha has expanded significantly. Through Tata Power’s four Discoms — TPCODL, TPWODL, TPNODL, and TPSODL — the initiative has engaged more than 500 schools across the state, including key regions like Bhubaneshwar, Sambalpur, Behrampur, Baleswar, creating a vibrant community of young energy conservation advocates. The students who participated in the state-level event were nominated after series of regional mini-Urja melas.
The Odisha Urja Mela featured various competitions, including a Science Exhibition, Best Out of Waste models, Painting, Quiz, and an essay competition, encouraging students to embrace environmental stewardship, resourcefulness, and innovation in energy conservation. In a strong show of inclusivity, special competitions were also held for visually impaired and deaf students, in alignment to Tata Power’s Pay Autention initiative, which focuses on empowering the neurodiverse community.
The event was attended by Tata Power’s senior leaders including Mr. Himal Tewari, Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief of Sustainability and CSR at Tata Power, along with Padma Shri recipient Sabarmatee Tiki and representatives from UNICEF, UNDP, Tata Steel, IHCL, TCS,  and Tata Strive. The event also saw attendance from Corporates and NGOs like Aditya Birla Group, LTI Mindtree, JSL, World Food Program and Lighthouse Foundation. The participation of Corporates and UN agencies highlighted the collaborative approach of Club Enerji, reinforcing shared values and a united effort to uplift communities across Odisha.
Reflecting on the event, Mr. Himal Tewari stated,  “Sustainability is at the core of Tata Power’s mission. Through Urja Mela, we are empowering young minds to lead a greener, more inclusive future. Odisha has shown remarkable momentum and a positive response to our Club Enerji initiative, with schools actively championing sustainability. We invite more schools and organizations to join us in transforming conservation into a mass movement. By inspiring students to think creatively and innovatively about combating climate change and protecting our planet, we reinforce the essence of our Club Enerji initiative.”
During the event, Tata Power also launched the Club Enerji Conservation Booklet in Odia, building on the success of earlier editions in Hindi and English. This booklet provides students with practical tools for energy conservation and environmental protection. Making it accessible in Odia enables young champions across the state to fully engage with the mission, empowering them as agents of change within their communities.
A special feature of the event was Tata Power’s Gaja Sanrakshana initiative, which raises awareness about biodiversity and habitat conservation by protecting the native Asian elephant in Odisha. This initiative highlights the importance of environmental conservation and inspires the young audience to value the natural ecosystems.
As a cornerstone of Tata Power’s Club Enerji program, which has engaged over 1200 schools across 15 states in India since 2007, the Urja Mela in Odisha underscores the company’s ongoing mission to nurture responsible, environmentally conscious citizens. Through engaging educational modules and practical activities, Club Enerji has raised awareness among nearly five lakh students nationwide, encouraging them to lead positive change within their communities.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.
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