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May 1, 2025
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How floral waste is boosting circularity in economy in India

By
The CSR Journal
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How floral waste is boosting circularity in economy in India
As India moves towards sustainability and a circular economy, the focus on waste to wealth is the way to be. Implementing composting pits in temples and involving Temple trusts and SHGs in recycling efforts can create significant employment opportunities. Outreach programs to educate priests and devotees about not dumping floral waste in rivers can help encourage waste reduction. The “Green Temples” concept can be integrated into policies to transform temples into eco-friendly spaces. Promoting digital offerings or biodegradable materials instead of traditional flowers can also help reduce floral waste. The National Horticulture Board can be involved in tracking and managing floral waste in green spaces like parks etc.
The floral waste sector in India is experiencing new growth, marked by its multifaceted benefits. Not only is it providing meaningful employment opportunities for women, but is also effectively diverting waste from dumpsites, contributing to environmental preservation.
Floral waste, collected from the spiritual sites mostly biodegradable, often ends up in landfills or water bodies, causing health hazards and harming aquatic life. According to a UN Climate Change report, the river Ganga alone absorbs over 8 million MT of flower waste annually. Under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0, several Indian cities are bringing innovative solutions to the table. Social entrepreneurs are stepping in to recycle flowers into valuable products like organic compost, soaps, candles, and incense sticks.
The Swachh Bharat Mission is spearheading a transformative journey towards sustainability, where the ethos of circular economy and waste-to-wealth reign supreme. Amidst this paradigm shift, floral waste emerges as one of the significant contributors to carbon footprints, prompting collaborative efforts among cities and startups to tackle this challenge head-on.
With 75,000 to 100,000 daily visitors at the Ujjain’s Mahalakaleshwar Temple, around 5-6 tonnes of floral and other waste are produced daily. Specialized ‘Pushpanjali Econirmit’ vehicles collect this waste and then it is processed at a 3TPD plant, turning it into eco-friendly products. 16 women from the Shiv Arpan Self-Help Group create various high-quality items from the floral waste and have been employed for the same. Additionally, the waste is converted into briquettes and compost, for the local farmers and as also works as biofuel. According to the Ujjain Smart City 2022 report, 2,200 tons of floral waste has been treated to date, and a total of 30,250,000 sticks produced so far.
Siddhivinayak Temple sees nearly 40,000 -50,000 devotees daily peaking 1,00,000 devotees on some given days, offering 120 to 200kgs of floral. Mumbai-based designer house ‘Adiv Pure Nature’ has initiated a sustainable venture, turning the temple’s discarded blooms into natural dyes to create different textiles in the form of fabric yardage, garments, scarves, table linens and tote bags. They collect floral waste thrice in a week which accounts to 1000-1500 kg /week. After segregation, a team of artisans transform the dried flowers into natural dyes. Beyond the commonly used marigold, rose, and hibiscus, the team also utilizes coconut husks to create natural dyes and produce textured prints through steam.
Tirupati Municipal Corporation handles over 6 tons of floral waste daily from temples every day. The city collects and upcycles floral waste into valuable & reusable products. 150 women from self-help groups have been employed through this. The recycling is done at the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam Aggarbatti 15-ton capacity manufacturing plant. The products are packaged with recycled paper and plantable paper embedded with Tulsi seeds for a zero-carbon footprint.
Kanpur based Phool, the floral waste recyclers have been tackling the massive temple-waste problem by collecting floral-waste from temples from various cities on a daily basis. Phool collects nearly 21 MT of floral-waste weekly (3 TPD) across the five prominent temple towns of India including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, Kanpur and Badrinath. This waste is upcycled into items such as incense sticks, incense cones, Bamboo-less incense, havan cup etc. The women employed by Phool enjoy a safe working space, fixed salaries, and benefits like provident fund, transportation, and healthcare. With deep-tech research, the startup has developed ‘Fleather’, which is a viable alternative to Animal leather and it was recently awarded PETA’s best innovation the Vegan World.
Hyderabad-based startup, ‘HolyWaste’ has revitalized floral waste through a unique process called ‘Florjuvination. Founded in 2018, the company’s founders Maya Vivek and Manu Dalmia partnered with vendors, temples, event organizers, decorators, and flower waste generators. They collect floral waste from 40 temples, 2 flower vendors, and a market area to create eco-friendly products like fertilizers, incense sticks, scented cones, and soaps. Currently, Holy waste is preventing a humble quantity of 1,000 kgs/week from clogging the water bodies or rotting in the landfills.
Poonam Sehrawat’s startup, ‘Aaruhi’, collects floral waste from over 15 temples in Delhi-NCR, recycling 1,000 kg of waste and earning over Rs 2 lakh monthly. Sehrawat has trained more than 3,000 women to create products from floral waste.

 

 

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

Chhattisgarh school children to receive primary education in 18 local dialects

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The CSR Journal
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Chhattisgarh school children to receive primary education in 18 local dialects
In a move to ensure inclusivity in education, the Government of Chhattisgarh led by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has decided to impart primary education in 18 local dialects mainly in the tribal areas of the state. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has directed the education department to develop and distribute bilingual books in 18 local languages and dialects.
The goal is to enhance access and quality of education especially in tribal communities so that children can receive education in their mother tongue and stay connected with their culture.

National Education Policy 2020

The move is in line with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP). As per the three-language formula in NEP 2020, every student in India should learn three languages: two native Indian languages, including one regional language, and English.
“The initiative is a part of the broader vision under NEP (National Education Policy) 2020 to make education more inclusive and accessible to children in their native languages”, as per an official of the Chhattisgarh government.

The CM says

The textbooks and teaching material would be translated into local dialects and teachers would also be trained in these languages as per orders of the Chief Minister.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai
“The new initiative of providing education in local language will also be helpful in preserving local culture and traditions,” the CM said while attending a programme at Bagiya village in tribal-dominated Jashpur district. The chief minister also said that under the PM Shri programme, 211 schools are being developed as model schools in the state.

Dialects selected

“In the first phase, courses will be prepared in Chhattisgarhi, Sargujia, Halbi, Sadari, Gondi-Dantewada and Kudukh. For this, the help of litterateurs, folk artists and compilers from across the state will be taken. Apart from this, cooperation will also be taken from senior citizens and teachers,” informed School Education Secretary Siddharth Komal Pardeshi.
Primary education imparted in the local dialect is expected to encourage more people to enroll their children in schools. However, even though the Education Department plans to conduct primary school exams in local languages and dialects, for higher classes, exams will still be conducted in Hindi and English as usual.

Population Census in India: Understanding the Delay on World Population Day 2024

By
Hency Thacker
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Population Census in India: Understanding the Delay on World Population Day 2024
Data is the new gold. Data is required to identify problems, frame policies, recognise beneficiaries and deliver solutions to them. Over the last three decades, societies across the globe have made tremendous progress in improving the processes of gathering, analysing and using data. This has improved social welfare efforts by government and other entities.
July 11 is observed as World Population Day across the globe. The day is aimed at highlighting issues related to population. The day is apt for highlighting the importance of conducting a population census, and the consequences of delaying it.
India conducts census every 10 years. The last census was supposed to occur in the year 2021. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was delayed. Now, however, there is no reason to delay, however the government is dragging its feet, probably looking to delay it even further. Let us see why that might be the case?

What is Population Census?

A population Census is the process of collecting, compiling, analysing and disseminating demographic, social, cultural and economic data relating to all the persons residing in the country, at a particular time in ten years interval.
Many countries in the world, including India, have constitutional provisions that require the conduct of a population census at regular intervals. It is essential to conduct population census because it provides the government with accurate and comprehensive data on various demographic, social, and economic aspects of its population. This serves as a fundamental data source for evidence-based policymaking, governance, and public administration.

What are the benefits of Population Census?

1. Policy planning and decision-making

The Census data helps the policymakers and those in position of power with by providing them accurate and reliable information about the population, enabling them to formulate effective policies, allocate resources, and plan for various sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare.

2. Resource allocation

Through census, the policymakers can identify the marginalised and vulnerable sections of the society. Once they are identified, the government can conduct equitable distribution of resources and services based on population size and demographic characteristics. Thus, the census data assists in determining the allocation of funds for public services like schools, hospitals, roads, and other essential facilities.

3. Socioeconomic analysis

Census data helps the researchers, academics, and analysts in studying demographic trends, population distribution, migration patterns, and socioeconomic characteristics. It helps in understanding social dynamics, identifying disparities, and developing strategies to address social and economic issues.

4. Electoral representation

Census data plays a critical role in determining the number of seats and boundaries for electoral constituencies. It ensures fair representation and proportional allocation of political power based on population size and distribution, thus providing the country with a fair democratic government.

5. Monitoring population changes

Regular population censuses provide a comprehensive and up-to-date snapshot of the population of a nation. They help in monitoring changes in population growth, fertility rates, mortality rates, migration trends, and other demographic indicators over time.

Why is the census being delayed?

India is a democracy which means that the government is elected by a majority of its citizens with the broad principle of ‘one citizen-one vote-one value’. The number of seats in the Lok Sabha based on the 1951, 1961 and 1971 Census was fixed at 494, 522 and 543, when the population was 36.1, 43.9 and 54.8 crore respectively. However, it has been frozen as per the 1971 Census in order to encourage population control measures so that States with higher population growth do not end up having higher number of seats. This was done through the 42nd Amendment Act till the year 2000 and was extended by the 84th Amendment Act till 2026. Therefore, the population based on which the number of seats is allocated refers to the population as per the 1971 Census. This number will be re-adjusted based on the first Census after 2026.
In a normal course of events, the delimitation process for the number of seats, boundaries of territorial constituencies and determining the reserved seats for SC and ST would have happened based on the Census of 2031 as it would have been the first Census after 2026. However, since the 2021 Census has already been delayed, and the fact that the year 2026 is only 2 years away, there have been talks about delaying the process of census to conduct the impending delimitation exercise at the earliest possible opportunity.

The political stand

The central idea behind conducting a delimitation exercise is to ensure that every state has equitable representation in the Lok Sabha based on its population. As we consider the formula worked out for delimitation, It is important to understand that seats for some states might fall and for some states, it might increase. If the seats are allocated according to the projected population figures in 2026, Uttar Pradesh will gain an estimated 14 seats and the constituencies in Madhya Pradesh will rise from 29 to 34. However, Tamil Nadu will observe its number of constituencies fall from 39 to 30 and Kerala’s constituencies will drop from 20 to 14. Given that the current incumbent BJP’s strength is in the Hindi belt, the Opposition parties are concerned that delimitation may end up benefitting the party, which is why they are keen on delaying census even further.

Integrating Tech Into The Classroom: How Teachers Can Support Students

By
The CSR Journal
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Integrating Tech Into The Classroom: How Teachers Can Support Students
Teaching is a noble profession that gives you the opportunity to enrich and educate the minds of tomorrow. While being a teacher comes with challenges including problematic student behaviour and funding issues in schools, moments like witnessing a child grasp an important concept for the first time make it all worth it. 
One way to be a more effective teacher and help your students learn more efficiently is to use technology in the classroom. Tools like virtual reality software and podcasts, when used properly, are much more engaging than traditional teaching methods and can be a great way to help your students retain information and have fun at the same time. 
This article will take you through some practical ways to integrate technology into the classroom. Keep reading to find out how you can be a more effective teacher in the modern day. 

Expose Students to a Wide Range of Software

The ability to work with a wide range of tools is best learned at an early age, and there’s no better place to do this than the classroom. That’s why teachers of today are encouraged to expose their students to a wide range of software, including file converters, video editing tools and AI platforms. Students will benefit greatly from using a PDF editor and other software that they’ll be encountering on a regular basis as they move through the educational system and eventually join the workforce. 
And speaking of using these tools in hands-on capacities or even in real-world contexts, teachers are also encouraged to provide some time for students to use these tools on their own or even voluntarily in their own projects, as hands-on experience is vital to acquiring these and other digital skills. 

PowerPoint Games and Quizzes

PowerPoint is a tool that’s been around for a while and can be used to create a range of interactive games and quizzes, which are a fun and engaging way for teachers to integrate tech into the classroom. Students will be much more likely to concentrate on a lesson if you add a competitive dimension, and PowerPoint games are a fantastic way to do this. 
If your students are in the process of revising for an exam, you can drop in a quick PowerPoint quiz in the middle of one of your lessons. You can offer candies or other small tokens as prizes. A well-made PowerPoint game lets your students have fun while also internalising whatever topic you’re trying to teach them. 

Take a Virtual Excursion

Virtual reality is becoming more common in the classroom, and one way to use VR to engage students is to take them on a virtual field trip. Exploring global landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Great Barrier Reef, the Pyramids and other famous spots allows you to build students’ cultural knowledge without having to pay for a physical trip.
In 2024, it’s easier than ever to implement VR in the classroom. There are many VR devices out there – some of them surprisingly affordable – that create vibrant, lifelike learning experiences for your students. 

Use Podcasts

Podcasts are taking the world by storm and can be an excellent way to supplement student learning. If you’re currently on a particular topic, sending your students an interesting, related podcast before class is a great way of building interest. 
The great thing about podcasts is that there are so many out there, so you’re sure to find one on almost any topic. If you’re a science teacher currently teaching the laws of motion, for instance, there are loads of physics podcasts you can use as teaching material. 

Expose Students to Coding Apps

While coding was once the domain of web developers, computer scientists and other related jobs, more and more professions are requiring a basic level of coding proficiency. Teaching your students how to code early on will give them an important advantage in the workplace, and coding apps are a great way to do this. 
There are various age-specific coding apps out there that you can incorporate into your curriculum. A great way to use them is as part of your growing STEM curriculum. Coding apps teach students how to code in a progressive way that’s also engaging. These apps are particularly helpful if you have limited coding experience and aren’t confident in your ability to teach it on your own. 

Use Technology for Student Feedback

The best litmus test for a lesson, teaching method or curriculum is how well they help students learn, and receiving feedback from the students themselves is a great way to assess all of these. Student feedback can help teachers and school management optimise curriculums, change how they teach and provide extra support to specific students. 
Consider using online surveys and polls to get a handle on how students feel about their experience in your classroom. You don’t have to wait for the end of the semester to do this: a quick survey at the end of every class can give you a real-time view of how your students are doing and what you can do to improve as a teacher. 

Set Up Tech Learning Stations

Online learning has its challenges – and different challenges may impact different students depending on their learning style. A way to mitigate these is by creating a hybrid learning environment that includes physical teaching sessions and digital learning stations that allow students to learn independently. 
A tech-based learning station allows students to learn at their own pace. If a student finishes a task early, they can hop onto a digital learning station to learn about optional topics or get a preview of the next lesson. A learning station might include learning material like educational videos, educational games and coding apps. It might also be hooked up to the internet to allow students to do their own research and access online tools. 
~ Just like everything else, the way in which students learn is constantly evolving, and teachers need to adapt to remain effective. One of the best ways to do this is by mastering how to use tech in the classroom.
In this article, we’ve gone through some key ways educators can incorporate various technological tools into their teaching. Start applying these tips to your own classroom today to create a more engaging learning environment for your students.

CSR for environment: 50,000 Trees to be planted under Go Green Kasara initiative

By
The CSR Journal
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CSR for environment: 50,000 Trees to be planted under Go Green Kasara initiative
Mumbai, India: Rustomjee Group, a leading real estate developer in Mumbai, announces its ambitious Plantation Drive, “GO GREEN KASARA”. This initiative marks a major step by Rustomjee Group towards its commitment to sustainability, focusing on the restoration and preservation of Kasara’s natural ecosystems by planting a total of 50,000 trees.
The first phase of this initiative began on July 5th, 2024, showcasing Rustomjee’s proactive dedication to environmental conservation and community welfare. The project aims to have all 50,000 trees successfully planted by March 2025.
Tree plantation in Kasara, Maharashtra, enriches biodiversity by enhancing air and water quality and promoting the resilience of native species to climate change. The selected native plants, including flowering and fruit-bearing trees, are well-suited for Kasara’s hilly and hot climate. These plantations also help mitigate soil erosion, raise groundwater levels, and provide habitats for diverse species. The tree species selected for this initiative include Ficus benghalensis (Wad), Phyllanthus emblica (Awala), Tectona grandis (Saag), Syzygium cumini (Jambhul), Oroxylum indicum (Tetu), Melia azedarach (Vehle), Cassia fistula (Bahawa), Bamboo, Annona squamosa (Sitaphal), Ziziphus (Ber), Carica papaya (Papaya), Moringa oleifera (Drumstick), Chrysophyllum cainito (Star Apple), Morus alba (Mulberry/Shahtoot), Psidium Guajava (Safeda Guava), Manilkara zapota (Chiku Kalapati), Tamarindus indica (Tamarind), Artocarpus heterophyllus (Fanas/Jackfruit), Ficus carica (Anjeer), and Mangifera indica (Mango).
The plant selection for this drive has been thoughtfully planned based on consultations with ecological experts, horticulturists, and landscape architects. The team of experts includes Kishor Chorge, Horticulturist at Rustomjee; Mrunal A Patil, Landscape Architect at DH&A Architects; and Mr. Prafull Borse, Horticulturist at BEO Farms and Agro Tourism. Their insights have been invaluable in ensuring that the chosen species will thrive in Kasara’s environment and contribute to its ecological balance.
Rustomjee’s Plantation Drive is a collaborative endeavour, partnering with the NGOs – “Grow Billion Trees and CAWSE Foundation”, which provide volunteers for the initiative. The Rustomjee team will take full responsibility for the ongoing care of the plants, ensuring their growth and sustainability. By engaging stakeholders at every level, the initiative fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility towards environmental conservation. Local communities are empowered to participate in tree-planting activities, fostering a deeper connection with their natural surroundings.
“Rustomjee’s Plantation Drive in Kasara exemplifies our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and community welfare. By planting 50,000 trees, we are significantly enhancing the region’s biodiversity and contributing meaningfully to the fight against climate change. Our efforts highlight our enduring vision of a harmonious coexistence between development and nature. This initiative not only reflects our dedication to creating a greener, healthier future for Kasara and its residents but also underscores our responsibility as corporate citizens to foster sustainable development,” said Boman R. Irani, Chairman and Managing Director of Rustomjee Group.
As the Plantation Drive continues to unfold, Rustomjee Group’s collaboration with local communities, NGOs, and government bodies exemplifies its commitment to sustainability. This initiative underscores Rustomjee Group’s role as a responsible corporate citizen dedicated to preserving Kasara’s natural heritage for future generations.

 

 

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

 

 

CSR-Rejuvenated Water Bodies in East Bengaluru are Declining

By
Hency Thacker
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CSR-Rejuvenated Water Bodies in East Bengaluru are Declining
The residents of East Bengaluru are worried of the worsening state of water bodies in villages outside BBMP limits, caused due to sewage and industrial pollutants. According to reports, the residents are concerned that the water bodies that were recently rejuvenated through CSR initiatives, are already in dire condition. One of the examples of such water bodies is the Mullur Lake in Kodathi village near Sarjapur Main Road.
Local lake activists have reported that the water body, that was developed just a year ago by an NGO in partnership with a private firm under CSR, has already degraded into a large septic tank, with unchecked sewage and industrial effluents flowing in.
“The lake underwent rejuvenation, but without a diversion channel, sewage from the entire catchment area flows directly into it. Over the last year, at least four to five commercial buildings, mostly paying guest accommodations, have come up in Ambedkar Nagar and nearly 10 more are under construction. Sewage from these buildings is entering the lake directly,” alleged Chetan Gopal, an environmental enthusiast in the area.
In response to these developments, the Kodathi Gram Panchayat office has issued notices to commercial establishments, requesting the submission of necessary construction permits. In addition, reports have indicated that industrial effluent is entering the lake from the vicinity of RGB Tech Park.

No Local Participation in Consultation for Rejuvenation

The locals have claimed that they were not involved in the consultation for rejuvenation. There are a total of 12 lakes in the area. While those not yet rejuvenated need to be developed, those rejuvenated through CSR funding are ailing. Apart from Mullur, other lakes in the area include Kachamaranahalli Lake, Sulikunte Lake, Kodathi Lake, Devarakere Lake, Hadosiddapura Lake, and Halanayakanahalli Lake.
The residents have also pointed out Heggondanahalli Lake as another water body in the area, that has met a similar fate. Hadosiddapura Lake was rejuvenated in 2019-20 and is in a bad state too. It is receiving a large volume of raw sewage from unregulated labor camps in the area. No guidelines are issued by the GP office on sewage management from these temporary camps. A resident has claimed that they also reached out to RERA, however, they cited their inability to help as they can only manage builders but not the subcontractors who hire labourers.

Accountability of CSR Projects

As per the city-based solid waste management experts, the Karnataka Tank Conservation and Development Authority (KTCDA) Act requires the authority’s technical approval before initiating the rejuvenation of water bodies. Therefore, NGOs and companies that sponsor such unscientific projects using CSR funds should also be held accountable if they proceed without proper approval.
“The majority of the CSR-based rejuvenation projects come with KTCDA-approved DPR. Thus, not just the NGO executing the project, but the CSR-funding agency should be held liable too. KTCDA is equally responsible for such illegal activities. The Authority is well aware of such cases but chooses to keep mum. This only goes to prove that KTCDA is hands-in-gloves. Immediate action is required to stop this corruption,” V Ramprasad, founder of Friends of Lakes has said.

Animal protection organization rescuing companions and farmed animals amid devastating Assam floods

By
The CSR Journal
-
Animal protection organization rescuing companions and farmed animals amid devastating Assam floods
Assam, India: Animal protection organization Humane Society International/India, in collaboration with Humanitarian Aid International, North-East Affected Area Development Society, Just Be Friendly and Anchalik Gram Unnayan Parishad, is providing critical emergency relief to the animals and people affected by the devastating floods in Assam. The floods have left countless humans and animals stranded, injured and in desperate need of food and medical or veterinary attention. HSI/India has deployed its Disaster Preparedness, Response and Relief team on the ground to aid collaborative relief efforts, which include emergency animal feed distribution, medical and veterinary supplies, as well as food rations, water and protective gear for families affected. The organization is working closely with district disaster management authority and local organizations to ensure the most affected animals and people are getting the relief they need.
Reports indicate that more than 24 lakh people have been displaced across 30 districts in Assam, while 15 lakh animals remain at risk. With more rainfall expected in the coming days, the situation is likely to worsen. Owing to the state’s vulnerable geography and changing climate, Assam continues to grapple with recurring floods, posing a significant humanitarian and animal welfare challenge.
Praveen Suresh, manager of disaster preparedness response and Relief at Humane Society International/India, said: “Lakhs of companion and farmed animals are at risk in Assam. The threat to animals also impacts people, their families and their livelihoods. We are witnessing the loss of hundreds of animal lives, with many more suffering injuries, displacement due to their shelters being destroyed plus the high risk of disease spread in the weeks to come. HSI/India is dedicated to providing immediate food and veterinary care to these animals, while also supporting the impacted communities. Our current relief operations plan is to mainly focus on Dorrang, Dhubri and Barpeta districts of Assam, which are also the most affected ones.”

 

 

 

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

CSR commitment towards wildlife conservation at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve

By
The CSR Journal
-
CSR commitment towards wildlife conservation at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve
DP World, a leading provider of worldwide, smart, end-to-end supply chain solutions company, has strengthened its commitment to wildlife conservation efforts at the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR). Recognizing the critical need to protect the reserve’s 93 tigers and support the larger population of over 150 tigers in the TATR, DP World has partnered with TATR management for implementing a pioneering AI-based virtual wall and human-animal conflict mitigation system (HACMS). These efforts are part of a broader initiative that includes the provision of advanced fire protection equipment and the installation of AI cameras in three buffer villages surrounding the reserve. This innovative approach not only aims to secure the habitats of these magnificent creatures but is also a testament to DP World’s commitment to its partner TATR in fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, making a lasting impact on the region’s biodiversity.
Tadoba National Park, the oldest and largest in the state of Maharashtra, spans approximately 1,727 square kilometers, with around 625 square kilometers designated as critical tiger habitat(core) and about 1,101 square kilometers serving as a buffer area. This reserve is celebrated for having the fastest-growing tiger population in India, making it a crucial stronghold for these magnificent big cats. Beyond tigers, Tadoba boasts a rich tapestry of wildlife, including leopards, wild pigs, sambar, chital, wild dogs, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species.
DP World has actively supported the implementation of the Human-Animal Conflict Mitigation System (HACMS), an advanced technology with cloud-based infrastructure for real-time data transmission and analysis. This technology was highlighted by Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in his “Mann Ki Baat” program. A standout feature is its predictive analytics, which monitors wildlife behavior and sends early warnings of tigers, bears, and leopards nearing villages, thereby reducing the risk of attacks on humans and livestock. The system triggers a series of alerts, including hooters at village poles, mobile notifications to forest officials, and public address announcements, ensuring timely communication and preventing dangerous encounters. This comprehensive alert mechanism enhances the safety of both humans and wildlife.
Furthermore, to enhance TATR’s firefighting capabilities, DP World has equipped rangers with the necessary tools – including a fire truck, swift-moving mini fire tender, and 10 high-performance fire blowers – to effectively combat forest fires and protect the delicate balance of the reserve.
In 2022, DP World made a significant contribution to the TATR by providing two patrolling vehicles to the Conservation Foundation, greatly enhancing the safety and efficiency of forest patrols.  Last year, DP World also provided TATR with thermal drones which has significantly boosted the reserve’s surveillance capabilities by enabling real-time monitoring of wildlife and habitats. This technology has proven to be a cost-effective and non-invasive alternative to traditional methods.
 Dr. Jitendra Ramgaokar, IFS Field Director, TATR and Executive Director TATR Conservation Foundation, said, “DP World has greatly enhanced human-wildlife coexistence through their support of the Human-Animal Conflict Mitigation System (HACMS). This innovative technology leverages AI and computer vision to protect local communities from wildlife threats. Their provision of advanced fire protection equipment and AI cameras further supports our conservation efforts, safeguarding both forests and animals. This initiative is a testament to the power of AI for social good and sets a new benchmark in digital innovation for wildlife conservation.”
Talking about the initiative, Mr. Kevin D’Souza, Senior Vice President – Business Development, Middle East, North Africa, and Subcontinent, DP World, said, “We are steadfast in our commitment to supporting the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, continually reinforcing our partnership to protect the forest from wildfires and man-wildlife conflicts. By safeguarding this crucial natural habitat, we are not only preserving its ecological value but also enhancing the safety and well-being of the forest staff and the local communities in the buffer zone.”
DP World is part of an industry task force led by “United for Wildlife”, which partners with key stakeholders to tackle unlawful wildlife trade. DP World has signed 11 commitments, including stopping the transportation and trade of illegal wildlife products.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

Odisha’s First Floriculture FPO Signs MoU with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research under Union Ministry of Science and Technology

By
The CSR Journal
-
Odisha’s First Floriculture FPO Signs MoU with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research under Union Ministry of Science and Technology
In a significant move poised to transform the floriculture landscape in Odisha, Sabuja Sanatanpali Farmer Producer Company Limited (SSFPCL), the state’s first floriculture-based Farmer Producer Organization (FPO), has signed a MOU with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow. Facilitated by Palladium, this collaboration aims to promote scientific research in floriculture, enhancing crop diversity, understanding plant-environment interactions, and applying biotechnological approaches for plant improvement, with a focus on economic viability. This initiative marks the first instance of an FPO in Odisha incorporating institutional applied research into its operational model to adapt to climate change and boost flower production and marketing, ultimately empowering farmers economically.
Odisha, with its 6,500 hectares dedicated to floriculture, produces approximately 24,800 metric tons of loose flowers and about 5,500 lakh cut flowers annually. However, this production meets only 10 percent of the state’s demand, forcing reliance on major cities like Calcutta, Bangalore, Delhi, and Hyderabad for flower supplies. This shortfall presents a lucrative opportunity for local entrepreneurs to delve into floriculture, a sector poised for growth.
Established in 2021 by Palladium as technical support unit and supported under the “Formation and Promotion of 10,000 FPOs under CSS scheme” by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), SSFPCL is located in the Jujumura forest area of Sambalpur district. It is the first FPO in Odisha focused on floriculture, making strides in addressing the state’s flower scarcity.
SSFPCL boasts over 1,200 small and marginal farmer members, with nearly 50 percent being women, overall benefitting 3500 farmers. This inclusivity underscores the organization’s commitment to gender equality in rural Odisha. Besides floriculture, SSFPCL sells a diverse range of agricultural products, including mangoes and vegetables such as cabbage, chili, cauliflower, and okra, produced by smallholder farmers.
It became the first FPO in the state to receive the highest matching equity grant from SFAC under the CSS 10,000 scheme in 2022. Recently, the FPO has received credit support from State Bank of India of INR 10 lakh for business operations. The FPO has established strong linkages between different departments such as the local horti/agri-officials and extension authorities like Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK). It has received input and post-harvest management support from the Directorate of Horticulture.
Dr. Chandra Sekhar Mohanty, Senior Principal Scientist at CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, said,“Through this initiative, technical and scientific support will be provided to farmers of the farmer producer company. This includes quality planting materials, introduction of new plant varieties, performance evaluation in the local environment, training on agri-horticultural practices, and production of value-added products. These efforts will promote crop diversity and support the sustainable economic growth of the FPO.”
Biswajit, Director, Palladium India, said, “Accelerating inclusive business growth for the FPOs through promotion of climate smart agriculture models has been the key approach of Palladium. When we supported the Sabuja Sanatanpali Farmer producer company limited in 2021, we had set a clear vision – to promote it as one of the models FPOs demonstrating women economic empowerment through farmer collectives. It’s heartening to see emerging FPOs like Sabuja Sanatanpali integrating applied and scientific research through partnership with Council for Scientific and Industry Research – NBIR Govt of India in their production processes to enhance quality of production, respond to lower productivity due to climate change and aiming higher export markets. We aim to take it forward keeping market systems aligned.”
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

CSR: Logistics Company commemorates a decade of Maitree initiative, aims to plant 5 million saplings by 2030

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The CSR Journal
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CSR: Logistics Company commemorates a decade of Maitree initiative, aims to plant 5 million saplings by 2030
Allcargo Group, an Indian-born global logistics conglomerate celebrating 30 years of excellence, has set a target to plant 5 million saplings by 2030 by actively engaging with more than 100,000 farmers as a part of its Maitree initiative run by the Group’s CSR arm, Avashya Foundation. The tree planation drive is inspired by the vision of the Group Founder & Chairman Mr. Shashi Kiran Shetty to make a larger impact on the environment and livelihood. Maitree is expected to impact lives of 500,000 beneficiaries in Maharashtra.
Under the Maitree initiative, Allcargo Group has planted over 1 million trees by 2023 and is pursuing a goal of planting 3 million trees by 2027 and 5 million by 2030. The tree plantation is being carried out in Khalapur, Karjat, Jawhar, Mokhada, Vada, Dahanu Uran, blocks in Palghar and Raigad, Maharashtra. The employees of Allcargo Group have joined hands as volunteers to plant trees under this initiative.
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Nilratan Shende, Head – CSR, Allcargo Group said, “Since its inception in 2014, Maitree aims to bring in tangible change in the environment and for the local communities. Maitree with its dual focus on income generation and environment sustainability has significantly contributed to the economic wellbeing of the farmers. We are pleased to see the positive impact of Maitree on the people where the tree-plantation drive has been carried out. Guided by the vision of the Chairman, we are working towards community engagement on a much greater scale to spread the benefit of Maitree to a larger population.”
Under the Maitree initiative, the farmers cultivate mango, custard apple, moringa, guava, sapota, cashew, jackfruit, jamun, tamarind, lemon, tick, and bamboo, thus contributing to both ecological diversity and economic sustainability. Apart from offering fruit-bearing saplings, Allcargo Group is providing required resources to farmers for the maintenance of these trees.
Allcargo Group has so far supported over 20,000 farmers in the Palghar and Raigad districts of Maharashtra and touched the lives of many. The Maitree initiative offers local livelihood opportunities, reducing forced migration, alters migration patterns, allows children to enrol in schools and improving attendance, enhances access to Public Distribution System (PDS) and Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment.
Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) entitlements for farmers, instil confidence in farmers through income generated from the harvested fruits and promotes small-scale farmers by providing targeted platforms for selling their goods. Maitree initiative is a part of Allcargo Group’s ESG journey and long standing vision.
The Maitree Initiative’s impact extends beyond the immediate communities, contributing significantly to the local environment, by offsetting 32,258 tons of carbon dioxide by the 1 million planted trees, conserving 40 crore litres of water, preserving soil erosion, promoting biodiversity, fostering a healthier and more resilient ecosystem, as reported in Allcargo’s ESG report 2022-23.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.
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