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April 29, 2025
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स्किल डेवलपमेंट और युवा सशक्तिकरण के लिए FUEL को मिला स्किल-ए-नेशन पायनियर एंड लीडरशिप अवॉर्ड 

By
Rahuldeo Sharma
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स्किल डेवलपमेंट और युवा सशक्तिकरण के लिए FUEL को मिला स्किल-ए-नेशन पायनियर एंड लीडरशिप अवॉर्ड
दी सीएसआर जर्नल एक्सीलेंस अवॉर्ड में FUEL (Friends Union for Energising Lives) को स्किल-ए-नेशन पायनियर एंड लीडरशिप अवार्ड से नवाजा गया है। FUEL (Friends Union for Energising Lives) के संस्थापक केतन देशपांडे और मुख्य मार्गदर्शक संतोष हुरलिकोप्पी को ये अवॉर्ड दिया गया। The CSR Journal’s Skill-a-Nation Pioneer and Leadership Award 2024 का ये अवॉर्ड लोकसभा अध्यक्ष ओम बिरला और भारतीय ओलंपिक संघ की अध्यक्ष पद्मश्री पी.टी. उषा ने दिया। यह अवार्ड भारत के युवाओं को कौशल विकास (Skill Development), छात्रवृत्तियां (Scholarship) और रोजगार (Employment) के अवसर दिलाने में FUEL के बेहतरीन काम के लिए दिया गया।

युवा सशक्तिकरण और कौशल विकास में काम करती है FUEL

युवा सशक्तिकरण (Youth Empowerment), कौशल विकास और रोजगार के लिए लगातार Fuel संस्था काम करती आ रही है। पिछले 18 सालों से FUEL ने देश के 17 राज्यों में 11 लाख से ज़्यादा वंचित युवाओं की जिंदगी में बदलाव लाकर एक मिसाल कायम की है। करियर काउंसलिंग, कौशल विकास और छात्रवृत्तियों के जरिए, FUEL ने युवाओं को बेहतर भविष्य के मौके दिए हैं। फ्यूल ने देश के तमाम कॉर्पोरेट्स के साथ CSR में साझेदारी कर स्किल्स के विकास में बड़ा योगदान दिया है। पुणे में एक स्किल्स यूनिवर्सिटी बनाने का सपना और 300 से ज़्यादा लड़कियों को मुफ्त शिक्षा देने वाला फ्यूल बिजनेस स्कूल उनकी प्रतिबद्धता को दर्शाता है।

संतोष हुरलिकोप्पी की मदद से 19 साल की उम्र में केतन देशपांडे ने शुरू की थी फ्यूल संस्था

FUEL की शुरुआत केतन देशपांडे ने 19 साल की उम्र में संतोष हुरलिकोप्पी की मदद से की थी। आज यह संस्था युवाओं को सशक्त बनाने और कौशल विकास के क्षेत्र में बड़ा काम कर रही है। फ्यूल अब पुणे में स्किल्स यूनिवर्सिटी बनाने की कोशिश में है, जिससे वंचित समुदायों को फायदा मिलेगा। FUEL लगातार शिक्षा और रोजगार के बीच की खाई को पाटने की कोशिश में है। The CSR Journal से ख़ास बातचीत करते हुए केतन देशपांडे ने कहा कि, “ओम बिरला जी और पी.टी. उषा जी से यह सम्मान पाना हमारे लिए गर्व की बात है। यह अवॉर्ड हमें और भी ज्यादा युवाओं तक पहुंचने और उन्हें भविष्य के लिए तैयार करने की प्रेरणा देता है।” वहीं संतोष हुरलिकोप्पी ने कहा कि, “यह सम्मान हमारे पूरे टीम, पार्टनर्स और समर्थकों के समर्पण का नतीजा है। यह हमें और मेहनत करने और वंचित युवाओं को सशक्त बनाने के हमारे लक्ष्य को और आगे बढ़ाने की प्रेरणा देता है।”

FUEL पुणे में स्किल्स यूनिवर्सिटी खोलने की तैयारी में है

गौरतलब है कि FUEL अपने 18वें साल में प्रवेश कर रहा है और फ्यूचर स्किल्स जैसी योजनाओं के ज़रिए और ज्यादा युवाओं तक पहुंचने के लिए प्रतिबद्ध है। अब तक 17 राज्यों में 11 लाख से ज्यादा युवाओं को फायदा पहुंचाने के बाद, FUEL पुणे में स्किल्स यूनिवर्सिटी (Skill University by FUEL) खोलने की तैयारी कर रहा है, ताकि वंचित छात्रों को और भी ज्यादा मौके मिल सकें और भारत एक स्किल्ड देश बन सके।

Did You Know Cotton is Extremely Unsustainable?

By
Hency Thacker
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Did You Know Cotton is Extremely Unsustainable?
It takes 10,000 litres of water to produce one kilogram of cotton. Global cotton production requires over 250 billion tons of water annually. This means, the production of one cotton t-shirt uses up about 2700 litres of fresh water.
October 7 is observed as World Cotton Day each year. The day is aimed at recognising the versatility of Cotton. However, on this World Cotton Day, let us look at how cotton is really unsustainable:

Extreme Water Consumption

According to a report by The Guardian that was published in 2015, “The water consumed to grow India’s cotton exports in 2013 would be enough to supply 85% of the country’s 1.24 billion people with 100 litres of water every day for a year. Meanwhile, more than 100 million people in India do not have access to safe water”.
This data is staggering. Especially considering the consistent demand for Cotton in the textile industry. In fact, cotton represent 25 per cent of the total fibre requirement globally.
To meet the demand of cotton, the cultivation of cotton is also high that it has depleted the 4th largest lake in the world – The Aral Sea.
Use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers increases virtual water consumption. According to a study by Water Footprint Network, producing 1kg of cotton in India consumes 22,500 litres of water, on average. In other words, this 22,500 litres of water cannot be used for anything else because it has either evaporated or is too contaminated for reuse. Putting this into perspective, by exporting more than 7.5m bales of cotton in 2013, India also exported about 38 billion cubic metres of virtual water. This amount of water would more than meet the daily needs of 85% of India’s population for an entire year.

Excessive use of Pesticides and Harmful Chemicals

Repeated cultivation of cotton degrades the quality of soil and makes it infertile over time. However, since it is one of the cash crops, the farmers are motivated to grow it, even at the cost of utilising excessive amounts of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. This not only further degrades the soil but also contaminates the ground water and water that runs off and joins a stream or a lake.

Organic Cotton

In general, cotton cultivation does not require as much water. It is the use of toxic chemicals that exacerbates the water consumption and pollution. Which is why, organic cotton consumes much less water. It also does not use any chemicals, keeping the soil health on the healthier side. No exposure to such toxic chemicals for farmers is also great for their health. However, that does not mean that the water consumption is not more for even organic cotton cultivation. Additionally, to maintain health of soil, a farmer producing organic cotton can only do so through crop rotation. Thus, the quantity of such cotton produced is significantly less. In fact, only about 1 per cent of the total cotton produced globally is organic in nature. This makes it highly expensive.

Way forward

Recycled cotton is the most sustainable of traditional cotton or organic cotton. Since it is produced from pre-used cotton clothes or scraps, it does not require any more consumption of water. Additionally, it also contributes in overall cotton industry in the way that it reduces the need to produce new cotton, making it easier on water and soil.
Recycled cotton has poor fibre quality, and thus the clothes made from such have lesser life. However, in today’s world where fast fashion is in trend, if one is going to discard their clothes after few uses, how does it matter whether they have a long life or not?

180+ MW of Solar PV Modules Supplied Under KUSUM Yojana

By
The CSR Journal
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180+ MW of Solar PV Modules Supplied Under KUSUM Yojana
Grew Energy Private Limited partners with Aditya Green Energy Pvt Ltd for the supply of over 180 MW of PV solar modules. The order supports the Government of India’s PM KUSUM C (MSKVY 2.0) Yojana initiative aimed at promoting solar energy adoption in rural areas. The project will benefit the regions of Latur, Osmanabad, and Beed.
Grew Energy, one of India’s fastest-growing solar module manufacturers, will commence the dispatch of solar modules starting in September 2024, continuing until January 2025. This milestone strengthens both companies’ commitment to driving the country’s renewable energy mission forward.
Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Adinath Sangwe, Managing Director of Aditya Green Energy Pvt Ltd, expressed, “Our collaboration with Grew Energy is a significant step toward achieving our company’s target of 100% solarisation of distribution substations in Latur, Beed   & Osmanabad districts in next one and half year there by ensuring quality day time power to all the farmers, he added that these three districts will show the way to entire nation and thanked team Grew for becoming partner in this noble mission.”
Mr. Vipul Joisher, Director of Aditya Green Energy Pvt Ltd, expressed, “This partnership not only enhances the clean energy infrastructure in Latur, Osmanabad and Beed but also contributes to the socio-economic upliftment of the region by generating employment opportunities through solar energy projects. “
Mr. Jayesh Bajaj, Director of Aditya Green Energy Pvt Ltd, added, “Our collaboration with Grew Energy is a significant step toward achieving our renewable energy goals under the KUSUM Yojana. We are dedicated to bringing reliable solar energy solutions to rural regions, and this partnership aligns with our vision of creating a greener future for India.”
Mr. Vinay Thadani, CEO & Director of Grew Energy, stated, “We are delighted to support Aditya Green Energy in their efforts to expand solar energy production under the KUSUM Yojana. Our state-of-the-art MonoPERC P-Type modules are designed to provide maximum efficiency and reliability, and we look forward to contributing to India’s renewable energy revolution.”
Through this association, Grew Energy will provide high-quality, technologically advanced solar modules that are essential for agricultural and rural solar applications, thereby driving sustainable energy growth across India.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

Green Ribbon Champions Recognised Under Green Banking Initiative 2024 Category

By
The CSR Journal
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Green Ribbon Champions Recognised Under Green Banking Initiative 2024 Category
Punjab National Bank (PNB), nation’s leading public sector bank, was awarded the Green Ribbon Champions under the Green Banking Initiative of the Year 2024 category. This prestigious award highlights PNB’s outstanding efforts through its transformative “Go Green” initiative, under the project “PNB Palaash – Uniting for a Greener Tomorrow”, that is aimed at driving sustainability within the organisation.
The award was presented by Bollywood Actress and Sustainability Advocate Ms. Gul Panag, along with Distinguished Fellow at TERI Mr. Ajay Shankar, during the prestigious event in New Delhi.
The “PNB Palaash” initiative promotes eco-friendly practices to reduce the bank’s carbon footprint. Key actions include tree planting, reducing plastic usage, encouraging recycling, and financing green projects. Over 100,000 employees pledged to make environmentally responsible choices, resulting in the installation of EV charging stations. PNB has also reduced paper consumption through digitalisation, introduced biodegradable materials, and building eco-friendly data centre in Gurugram.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

World Space Week 2024: Top Ten Indian Companies in Space Tech Market 

By
Nitya Choubey
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World Space Week 2024: Top Ten Indian Companies in Space Tech Market
Can satellites be refuelled while they are in space? Many may jitter to answer this question. But these two young men from Chennai will not. Shaktikumar and Nikhil came up with the start-up idea of creating a tanker satellite that could be sent into space to refuel. Based on this idea, the duo started their own start-up called OrbitAID. 
This idea can sound a little ambitious, but because of its exclusivity, it has a huge scope. OrbitAID has become the only Indian player in the ‘On Orbit Service (OOS)’ market, worth $18 billion (according to Northern Sky Research). 
This is the tale of one company based in Tamil Nadu, which created a shock wave in the space exploration aspirations of the entire country. Many other Indian companies and small start-ups are also coming up with innovations, that too at more affordable rates than that offered by foreign companies. More students, aeronautical engineers and retired scientists want to enter the space tech market. But, the task of providing opportunities to all these stakeholders, equally, cannot alone be done by the government. There is a requirement for private sector intervention in the space technology market, not only because it is an expensive sector but also because it is constantly booming.
This World Space Week, we look at the top ten space tech companies, all born in India within the last decade:

1. Aadya Aerospace:

Based out of Bengaluru, this innovative aerospace start-up aims to revolutionise aeronautical and defence engineering technology solutions. The start-up was founded in 2016 by Shagu Stephen, with a focus on manufacturing cutting-edge actuation systems, missiles and launch vehicles. Within one year of its establishment, Aadya Aerospace secured $1 million in the form of foreign investment.

2. AgniKul:

Established in 2017 by Shrinath Ravichandran, Moin SPM and SR Charavarty, this space tech StartUp has secured its own launchpad and mission control centre at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This is a big deal for any private company, which otherwise struggles for permissions and restrictions. The start-up has become one of the first Indian private enterprises to forge a strong partnership with both ISRO as well as In-SPACe. AgniKul has come to garner support from notable angel investors, including Anand Mahindra, Nitin Kamath of Zerodha and many others.

3.Pixxel:

This is a space technology start-up founded by Awais Ahmed and Kshitij Khandelwal while completing their education at BITS Pilani. The focus of the start-up is to develop high-resolution Earth Observation Satellites (EOS). One of the first hyperspectral imaging satellites launched by Pixxel was ‘Shakuntala’. This satellite transmits essential data concerning climate change, deforestation, icecap melting, gas leaks and crop health. Because of the satellite’s high utility, the start-up can acquire funding of over $36 million from investors, including Google, Omnivore VC and Radical Ventures.

4.Square Root Aerospace:

Founded in 2018 by former engineers and scientists from ISRO, SkyRoot Aerospace works with a mission to ‘open space for all’, by developing affordable and reliable launch vehicles for small satellites. It has its headquarters in Hyderabad, Telangana and is working on the Vikram series satellite, which is to be launched soon. Because of its trusted and legitimate background, the organization has raised over $51 million in funding, to date

5.Bellatrix Aerospace:

Headquartered in Bangalore, Karnataka and founded in 2015 by Rohan M Ganapathy and Yashas Karanam, the company aims to develop small satellite launch vehicles called ‘Chetak’ as part of its upcoming projects. The company was able to back orders from ISRO and the government of Karnataka. Now, because of its good track record, the company was able to raise $11.3 million in funding.

6. Dhruva Space:

This national award winning space technology company focuses on building full stack space engineering solution which includes satellites, launch services and outer space based technology solutions. Based out of Hyderabad, this Indian company received authorisation from IN-SPACe in 2024 to provide ground stations services to India based space exploration missions. Recently, the company bagged $9 billion from IAN Alpha Funds because of its track record of completing four space missions in past two years.

7. Astrogate Labs

This is a space communication company founded in 2017 by Aditya Kedlaya and Nitish Singh. The company aims to establish space-to-ground laser high-speed communication links so that data transmission becomes easier. With its headquarters in Bangalore, the start-up manages a network of optical ground stations and in-space relays. Benefiting from the increasing demand for small satellite operations in India, the company has successfully secured $200 thousand from 9Unicorns Accelerator Fund in 2020. Now, the company aims to become one one-stop solution for optical communication systems, both on the Earth as well as in outer space.

 

8.Digantara:

This is a Bengaluru-based start-up, which was founded in 2018 by 3 people: Anirudh Sharma, Rahul Rawat and Tanveer Ahmed. The company’s mission is to create an ecosystem for small satellites within India. Alongside this, the company also wants to make a strong network of local partners to resolve the difficulties of space operations and traffic. This will be done by developing a space debris detector for space objects that can damage a satellite. An online platform called ‘Space Mission Assurance Platform’ will further serve as an end-to-end traffic management system. In 2024, the company also launched its satellite Pushan-Alpha, which will serve as the space weather testbed in the sun-synchronous side of Earth’s orbit.

9. Eon Space Labs:

The company was founded in 2022 and is new to the space exploration market in India. The founders, Puneet Badeka, Manoj Kumar Gaddam and Sanjay Kumar established the start-up to manufacture good quality optical payloads for satellites, UAVs and drones. The company’s clientele receives services in the form of high-resolution images using smaller satellites. Still in search of a strong investor, Eon aims to develop a constellation of satellites for real-time monitoring and surveillance. The simple aim of this recent start-up is to build satellites that have the power to capture all infrastructures and geographies.

10. GalaxyEye Space:

Established in 2020, the start-up has a bouquet of founders, like Denil Chawda and Suyash Singh to name a few. The company is based out of Chennai and aims to provide multi-sensor imagery via satellites. The company claims to provide all high-resolution images at any time without any atmospheric interference. With this, the start-up has been able to raise around $4 million from investors, including Anicut Capitals, Veda VC,  Zerodha founder, etc. The ambitious plan of the start-up is to launch its first-ever satellite in the second half of 2024.

CSR: Union Bank of India commemorates Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti with impactful initiatives

By
The CSR Journal
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CSR: Union Bank of India commemorates Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti with impactful initiatives
This Gandhi Jayanti, Union Bank of India took a significant step forward in its corporate social responsibility efforts. The bank embarked on a remarkable journey aimed at making a positive impact in communities across the nation. Through a series of initiatives focused on education, health, and women upliftment, Union Bank of India honoured the values of Mahatma Gandhi while striving to uplift and empower the underprivileged.
The bank unveiled India’s first all women Rural Self Employment Training institutions (RSETI). These RSETIs were launched in Mauganj, Madhya Pradesh (RO Rewa), Palnadu, Andhra Pradesh (RO Narasaraopeta) respectively.
Additionally, in line with this commitment, Union Bank of India also supported:

Union Bank of India Donates MRI Scanner at Cancer Institute, Chennai

Union Bank of India has supported the Cancer Institute, established by the Women India Association’s Cancer Relief Fund with a donation of ₹5.30 crores. This generous donation will fund the acquisition of a state-of-the-art MRI scanner for the regional center in Chennai.
Dr. Kalpana Balakrishnan, Director of the Cancer Institute WIA in Adyar, Chennai, expressed gratitude for this significant contribution, which will enhance diagnostic capabilities and improve patient care.

Cantonment General Hospital, Prayagraj

Md. Sameer Islam, CEO of the Cantonment Board, Prayagraj, was present to accept the generous donation of ₹1.72 crores to fund and support the Cantonment hospital’s cancer unit.
The event concluded with a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem, performed by the students of the Victoria Memorial School for the Blind.
Speaking at the event, Ms. A. Manimekhalai, Managing Director & CEO of Union Bank of India, remarked, “Our diverse CSR initiatives, inspired by Gandhiji’s ideals, demonstrate our commitment to rural development, women’s empowerment, and strengthening the health infrastructure of our country. Union Bank of India remains dedicated to making a positive impact on society and will persist in its efforts to promote a better, healthier, and more educated India.” 
She also emphasized the historic significance, stating, “The Head Office building of Union Bank of India in Mumbai was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, in 1921. This significant moment reinforces our dedication to upholding Gandhiji’s leadership and vision.”
In addition to this, the bank also organized women’s hockey match, showcasing the talent and spirit of its female employees in Mumbai. The match was contested between the Union Bank hockey team and the Sports Authority of India team. This event began with an energetic unveiling of new jerseys, symbolizing unity and pride among the participants. The match itself was filled with enthusiasm, as players demonstrated their skills and teamwork on the field.
This initiative not only provided a platform for women to showcase their athletic abilities but also emphasized the bank’s commitment to women’s empowerment and talent development. By fostering an inclusive environment and encouraging participation in sports, the bank aims to inspire confidence and promote gender equality within the workplace and the wider community.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

NMDC celebrates double accolades at The CSR Journal Excellence Awards and ASSOCHAM Awards 2024

By
The CSR Journal
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NMDC celebrates double accolades at The CSR Journal Excellence Awards and ASSOCHAM Awards 2024
NMDC Ltd. is proud to announce its dual recognition at two prestigious national awards, underscoring its leadership in both corporate social responsibility and sustainable mining practices.
At a ceremony held in Mumbai, NMDC was awarded the 1st Prize at The CSR Journal Excellence Awards 2024 in the category of Women Empowerment and Child Welfare for its flagship program, the Balika Shiksha Yojana. This recognition highlights NMDC’s commitment to empowering communities, particularly women and children in the Bastar region. The program, which sponsors the nursing education of girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, has been a beacon of hope since its inception, with over 500 beneficiaries to date. Through this initiative, NMDC is not only changing lives but also addressing critical healthcare shortages in rural India.
In another proud moment, at the ASSOCHAM Awards 2024 held in Kolkata, NMDC’s focus on sustainability and mining innovation was recognized with two prestigious awards: the Mining Excellence Award for its commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles & Sustainability of the Year, and the Award for Excellence in Mining Innovation and Mineral Development of the Year.
These recognitions at the ASSOCHAM Awards highlight NMDC’s commitment to responsible mining and sustainable growth. By continuously advancing responsible mining practices, NMDC is setting the benchmark for the Iron & Steel industry. The Excellence in Mining Innovation and Mineral Development Award reflects NMDC’s forward-looking approach, positioning the company as a leader in the drive for greener mining solutions.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Addl. Charge) NMDC, stated, “These awards reflect our enduring commitment to sustainable growth and community welfare. NMDC’s mission is not only to be India’s leading iron ore producer, but to ensure that our success positively impacts society and the environment. Achieving recognition in both CSR and mining innovation proves that we are moving in the right direction – one that aligns with national goals of development and sustainability.”
In its journey towards becoming a 100 MnT company by 2030, NMDC is driven by a single, clear goal: to achieve growth that is both sustainable and inclusive. As India’s largest iron ore producer, NMDC is committed to not only meeting the growing demands of the domestic market but doing so with a focus on environmental conservation, innovation, and social upliftment.
These accolades from both CSR and mining sectors are not isolated achievements; they reflect NMDC’s integrated approach to business. The company’s continued success stems from its belief in doing well in every sphere it operates; whether through responsible mining, innovative technologies, or community-driven initiatives. NMDC’s path is clear – Growth with purpose, rooted in values that align with India’s long-term vision for sustainable development and societal well-being.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

Let’s Colour initiative completed in three remote villages in Himachal Pradesh

By
The CSR Journal
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Let’s Colour initiative completed in three remote villages in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh, India: AkzoNobel India announced the completion of a Let’s Colour initiative in three remote villages in Himachal Pradesh that literally takes the transformative power of its paint to the top of the world!
Mr. Rahul Jain, ADC of Kaza and Chief Guest of the event, inaugurated the program by lighting a lamp in front of the statue of Lord Buddha. The event was further attended by lamas from Komic and Langza monasteries, along with over 100 residents of Komic, Hikkim, and Langza villages.
The unique “Let’s Colour” project was staged in Komic (the world’s highest village reachable by a motorable road); Hikkim (home to the world’s highest post office); and Langza (where marine fossils older than the Himalayas have been found).
Situated more than 15,000 feet above sea level (around the same height as the base of Mount Everest), the villagers – who are mostly Tibetan Buddhists – endure winter temperatures that regularly dip below -25°C, necessitating the hassle of annual repainting. This now stands changed as 20 painters used more than 10,500 liters of the company’s Dulux Weathershield range of exterior emulsions and enamels to ensure longer lasting all-weather protection for the tribal communities.
“This is more than a ‘Let’s Colour’ project, it symbolizes AkzoNobel’s commitment to paint the future for communities anywhere in the world. Paint really has more power than we think. While creating inspired living space for the residents today, it’s going beyond to provide enduring protection against extreme Himalayan winters and preserve the region’s centuries old Buddhist spiritual and cultural tapestry,” said Rajiv Rajgopal, Chairman and Managing Director of Akzo Nobel India Limited.
The transformation of the three villages located in the Spiti Valley – a high-altitude cold desert region of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh – happened over the course of four months. The revitalization that covered a significant 300,000 sq. feet area included more than 100 homes, three schools, three monasteries, 8 cafés and 12 homestays.
The transformation also revived a number of buildings integral to the cultural identity of the region, such as the 14th-century Tangyud monastery (one of the oldest in the world) and the Komic museum.
Collaborating with the villagers to, AkzoNobel team chose a palette of soulful hues steeped in Buddhist traditions – blues for universal compassion, whites symbolizing purity and reds for blessings.
The project’s impact extends well beyond aesthetics. A local artist also painted a series of purposeful murals designed to help boost tourism by creating a more vibrant and inviting environment. The young Buddhist monk with a prayer wheel in residence and a meditating Buddha paint a picture of tranquillity at the monastery. Art interventions on the region’s vulnerable snow-leopards, Himalayan ibexes, and yaks spread awareness of native species. The stargazing mural encourages tourists to marvel at the rare sight of Milky Way galaxy.
“We’re extremely proud to harness the transformative power of paint to uplift communities and inspire positive change,” adds Rajgopal. “Whether it involves rejuvenating the timeless Blue City appeal of Jodhpur and keeping homes cooler in the blistering heat, or safeguarding villages on top of the world from extreme sub-zero winters.”
AkzoNobel’s global “Let’s Colour” initiative was launched in 2009. To date, over 100 million people across 46 countries have benefitted from 3,000 projects, using in excess of two million liters of paint.

 

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

 

 

Interschool Festival ‘The Happy Place’ hosted to Drive Awareness on Mental Health

By
The CSR Journal
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Interschool Festival ‘The Happy Place’ hosted to Drive Awareness on Mental Health
Mumbai, India: In a collaborative effort between Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA) and Mpower, an initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust the Happy Place Interschool Festival was successfully held to raise awareness about mental health, with this year’s theme being The Mindful Megabyte – Digital Wellness. The event saw participation from over 200 students across various schools in Mumbai across boards (Including CBSE, IB, state board, IGCSE etc.), engaging in a variety of creative and expressive competitions, including Solo/Duet Singing, Art, Photography, AD-Film Making, Drama, Slam Poetry, and Dance. Each event centered around the theme of digital wellness, focusing on the impact of technology on mental health and well-being.
The Happy Place Interschool Festival, introduced by Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), is built on the belief that mental health awareness is a crucial aspect of a child’s holistic development. At ABWA, students benefit from a robust mental health and emotional well-being curriculum that supports resilience alongside academic excellence. Under the leadership of Mrs. Neerja Birla, Founder and Chairperson of Aditya Birla World Academy and the Aditya Birla Education Trust, this vision has flourished. A passionate mental health advocate, Mrs. Birla firmly believes that mental health awareness and support should be accessible to all students, empowering them with the tools they need to thrive.
As an extension of this vision, the Mindsmatter program has reached 25 schools and over 40,000 students across India in the past year, with 318 teachers trained and 67 mentoring sessions conducted. The program has positively impacted behavior, self-esteem, and academic performance, with 83% of participants reporting improved communication skills and 61% noting reduced stigma around mental health.
For the last 6 years, The Happy Place Interschool Festival has expanded beyond ABWA, engaging students from schools across Mumbai to raise awareness on mental health through creative activities. This festival sustains the conversation on mental health, offering students a thoughtfully curated platform to explore these critical themes, express themselves creatively, and build empathy. Through themes like Digital Wellness, participants reflect on their emotional health, fostering a balanced and mindful approach to life.
Mrs. Radhika Sinha, Principal of Aditya Birla World Academy (ABWA), highlighted the importance of such initiatives, stating, “The Happy Place interschool festival is not just a competition, but a mindful space for students to engage in conversations about mental health while expressing their creativity. The focus here is not only on winning but also on creating an environment where students can explore topics like Digital Wellness that are highly relevant to the challenges the youth face today. These activities help drive awareness, fostering a sense of empathy and mindfulness amongst our students.”
The competition’s theme, Digital Wellness, reflects the growing influence of technology in the lives of young people. While digital platforms provide numerous opportunities for connection, learning, and creativity, they also come with risks such as overuse, social media addiction, cyberbullying, and sleep deprivation. Striking a balance between the positive and negative impacts of digital media is crucial for the well-being of today’s youth.
Parveen Shaikh, VP Operations at Mpower, highlighted the urgent need for digital wellbeing support amidst the growing mental health crisis, “In today’s digital age, the constant use of technology is significantly impacting mental health, particularly among young people. Studies reveal that 1 in 5 individuals experience symptoms of mental health conditions, with excessive screen time and online pressures contributing to this rise. Alarmingly, 50% of mental health issues begin by the age of 14, and 75% by age 24. By focusing on digital wellbeing and creating awareness around healthy tech habits, we aim to provide timely interventions that encourage young people to seek help and maintain a balanced, mentally healthy lifestyle.”
Research on digital wellness suggests that excessive use of digital devices can negatively affect mental health, particularly among students. Studies show that prolonged exposure to screens can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Initiatives like The Happy Place Interschool Festival play a significant role in bringing these critical discussions to the forefront, encouraging students to reflect on their digital habits and make informed choices.
As this year’s competition concludes, the collaboration between ABWA and Mpower continues to raise awareness on crucial mental health issues, ensuring that students are empowered to lead balanced, mindful lives.

 

 

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

 

 

 

Lacklustre Durga Puja preparation as ‘City of Joy’ mourns doctor’s death, seeks justice

By
Ahana Bhattacharya
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Lacklustre Durga Puja preparation as ‘City of Joy’ mourns doctor’s death, seeks justice
With the slogan of “We want justice” reverberating in the air, the spirits appear dampened for Bengal’s biggest festival, which was recognised by the UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. As Kolkata gears up for Durga Puja this year which is slated to commence on the 9th of October, preparations appear to be a little lacklustre this year as the city is still witnessing protests seeking justice for the rape and murder of a junior doctor inside R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital on 9th of August. It seems the city will return to the festivities only when justice is served.
As Navaratri celebrations begin across India, many Durga Puja pandals in Kolkata go through last minute preparations before being opened for the public from day 4 or day 5. A lot of Durga Puja pandals get inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Mahalaya itself, the last day of the Pitru Paksha, which also marks the beginning of Durga Puja festivities for the Bengali community. While this year also pandals have been inaugurated and people have started visiting, somewhere the rhythm is missing.
“Not in a mood to celebrate Durga Puja this year. It has been almost two months since the ghastly incident and the culprits have not yet been punished. She (the victim) was one of us. How can we forget about her painful death and take part in festivities? We will continue with our protests until the actual culprits are identified and the harshest punishment is meted out to them,” a protesting junior doctor from Kolkata told The CSR Journal.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

CM’s appeal to return to festivities, citizens reluctant

On 9th September, exactly a month after the incident, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had made an appeal to the citizens of Kolkata to “Return to the festival and celebrate Durga Puja”. Despite the Chief Minister’s appeal, people are not in a mood to celebrate the festival in a grand way which it is done every year.
The horrific incident has left Kolkatans emotionally disturbed who seek justice for the 31-year-old deceased doctor. Citizens of Kolkata are still shivering with fear thinking what if the same happens with their daughter or sister as well in a state which fails to ensure safety for its women. In solidarity with the victim’s family and colleagues, Kolkatans do not seem to be very excited about Durga Puja this year.

Puja Committees refuse grant

Every year, the state government gives a grant to community clubs that organise Durga Puja across West Bengal. This year, the amount being offered to clubs and Puja committees is Rs 85,000. However, as a mark of solidarity with protesters seeking justice for the rape and murder victim, several Durga Puja committees in Kolkata and even across the state have refused to accept the grant.
Kolkata’s New Market, a popular shopping destination, established in 1874

Dip in pre-puja sales

Shopping malls and popular markets across Kolkata have witnessed low footfalls and a dip in the pre-puja sales this year, which clearly reflects the mood of the citizens and their reluctance to take part in festival celebrations. The scene is the same everywhere be it Hatibagan market, Fariapukur Market, Gariahat or New Market which are known for being Kolkata’s favourite pre-puja shopping destinations.
“Durga Puja has to happen as it is a religious festival, so it cannot be stopped suddenly. But honestly speaking, none of us are in a mood for festivities this year. The vibe is just missing this year. Everybody is disturbed. It seems we have lost a family member, a sister. I have not done any shopping this time unlike other years when we normally begin buying clothes, shoes and accessories in August only,” expressed Arnab Banerjee, a corporate employee.

Fewer sponsors

Kolkata Durga Puja pandals receive huge donations in the form of sponsors and advertisements. Huge flex banners and hoardings on both sides of the streets near a Durga Puja pandal are a common sight from at least a week before the festivities begin, which are sponsored by different companies and brands. However, this year, the hoardings appear to be smaller and fewer in numbers as compared to other years amid ongoing protests seeking justice for the horrific rape and murder of a junior doctor in the city less than two months ago.

Cry of the Hour

Meanwhile, a sculpture titled “Cry of the Hour” has been unveiled at the R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital premises. The bust, installed on a pedestal, shows a woman crying in pain. It has been placed near the building that houses the office of R. G. Kar Hospital’s Principal. The sculpture depicts the anguish and horror of the trainee doctor in the last minutes of her life, reflecting her pain and trauma.
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