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May 8, 2025
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JSW Steel Spent Rs. ₹235 Crores on CSR in FY2023-24

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The CSR Journal
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JSW Steel is India’s leading and one of the world’s most efficient integrated steelmakers. The Company led by Sajjan Jindal, spent Rs. 235 crores on its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects during the fiscal year 2023-24. It has aligned its CSR programs to the key areas of health and nutrition, education and learning, agri- initiatives, livelihood, sanitation, water conservation and augmentation, biodiversity promotion, skill enhancement, and art, culture, and sports.
The company was mandated to spend Rs. 298 Cr. for CSR in FY24. Therefore, in addition to the ₹235 crore directly spent on various CSR initiatives, JSW Steel has deposited the remaining ₹63 crore into an escrow account, earmarking the amount for future specified projects.
In line with the Group’s philosophy of ‘Better Everyday’, JSW Steel has strived to deliver on its responsibilities towards its communities, people, and society at large. The Company carries out its social and out-of-fence environmental initiatives through JSW Foundation. The aim is to drive meaningful and sustainable change among communities (Direct Influence Zones & Indirect Influence Zones) across eight cause areas.

1. Sustainability Governance at JSW Steel

Maintaining and preserving the environment is a key business objective for the Company. The Company is aligned with the global steel industry’s focus on reducing its environmental impact and contributions toward climate change. Over the years, JSW Steel has fortified its commitment to conserve natural resources, reduce emissions by undertaking long-term measures like harnessing innovation, technology adoption and process change. The Company has developed a sustainability framework based on 17 key areas which embody the long-term Environmental, Social and Governance goals of the enterprise. The focus areas have been identified through an extensive process of studying the impact and the level of contribution required to be made.

2. Tackling Climate Change

As an industry leader, JSW Steel understands its responsibility to contribute towards creating a cleaner and sustainable planet for the future. The Company has developed a climate action plan to improve its carbon emission intensity beyond India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and achieve more than 42% reduction by 2030 from the base year of 2005. JSW Steel aims to achieve this through:
– Improvement of input raw material quality through beneficiation
– Increased use of renewable energy and scrap
– Reducing coke in Blast Furnaces (BFs), increased Pulverised Coal Injection (PCI) and Natural Gas (NG) use in BFs
– Energy efficiency and process efficiency improvements through best available technologies
– Continue efforts and collaborations towards development of deep decarbonisation technologies
The Company has an operating Carbon Capture Utilisation (CCU) plant at Salav facility, which is capturing carbon from the exhaust gases generated by sponge iron operations, treating and converting it to approximately 100 TPD CO2 (99.5% purity) and which is being used in the food and beverage industry for use.
The Company has earmarked Rs. 10,000 crore over the next few years to decarbonise, the initiatives include shifting to solar power for energy and increase the usage of scrap in the steel making operations.

3. Waste Management

JSW Steel has set a target of achieving specific water consumption (in steel production) of 2.21m3/ tcs by 2030. Currently, all the facilities follow Zero Liquid Discharge principles. The major steel producing facilities of the JSW Steel operate in water-stressed regions, and thus the Company consistently introduces process improvements to ensure better water conservation and harvesting. The plants have extensive water management plans in place which accelerate water conservation.

4. Conservation of Biodiversity

With an aim to protect the biodiversity where it operates, JSW Steel aims to practice prudent land use management. The Company also engages local environmental organisations and societies to study the biodiversity impact and improve local flora and fauna.
Till date, JSW Steel Vijayanagar has planted around 18 lakh trees in an area of 2250 acres and plans to enhance the plantation to 24 lakh. The facility has also developed greenery in an expansive stretch of 432 acre of degraded forest land adjacent to JSW Steel Complex in association with Karnataka State Forest Department.
The Company has carried out study to determine the impact on flora and fauna of core area. JSW Steel is planning to develop a Jubilee Park spread across 242 acres in Vijayanagar to enhance biodiversity.

5. Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives

JSW Foundation’s interventions are oriented towards achieving better outcomes in the local context by adopting SAMMS approach- Strategic, Aligned, Multi-stakeholder, Measurable, Sustainable. The interventions aim to leverage the long-standing trust and engagement with the communities to enable a self-sustaining ecosystem of well-being.
The interventions range from strengthening educational institutions to provisioning of secondary & tertiary healthcare and strengthening of public health system, helping communities to access basic sanitation & promoting hygiene, contributing towards water and environment conservation, facilitating women-centric livelihoods and, promoting agribusiness approach.

5.1 Interventions in Education

The education programmes and initiatives focus on a spectrum of aspects, including the construction and maintenance school infrastructure, interventions in early childhood education, e-learning, scholarships, teacher training, remedial classes, additional teacher support, career guidance, exposure to science and math activities, the provision of science labs and libraries, and mid-day meal. The company spent Rs. 5.54 lakh on CSR in education in FY24.

5.2 Health and Nutrition

The efforts under this focus area aim to enhance health and nutrition services at all levels of the healthcare systems by increasing awareness, contributing to infrastructure development, and encouraging community engagement to support the nation’s efforts. The company spent Rs. 6.07 lakh on CSR in Health and Nutrition in FY24.

5.3 Skills and Livelihood

The Company focuses on ground realities to increase the employability of graduates and women in rural areas with innovative solutions and vocational trainings. The company spent Rs. 18,821 on CSR in Health and Nutrition in FY24.

5.4 Art, Culture and Heritage

The Company has focused on developing a long-term preservation and restoration strategy to protect the country’s heritage for future generations. Through active collaborations with organisations and initiatives that preserve and promote the art, culture, and heritage of India, JSW Foundation is involved in establishing art precincts, restoring heritage structures, and preserving history.

5.5 Promoting Sports

JSW Steel has pioneered the success of rural sporting talent in India with focus on providing holistic and integrated solutions ranging from infrastructure, equipment, training of trainers to partnering with government bodies and other associations for growth.

Kashmir Realizes the Faizal and Shabana Foundation’s Vision: A Groundbreaking Leap in Education

By
The CSR Journal
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In a significant development for the education sector, the Faizal and Shabana Foundation has extended its transformative ‘Nadakkavu model’ to Kashmir. With the visionary goal of ‘Giving to Create Impact,’ the foundation continues its commitment to enhancing educational standards. The inauguration of the Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) in Kothi Bagh, Srinagar, on July 10 marks a milestone in this endeavor. This initiative builds on the foundation’s successful collaboration with the Government Vocational Higher Secondary School (GHSS) for Girls in Nadakkavu, Kozhikode, Kerala, which began in 2013 under Project PRISM, elevating the Nadakkavu school to national prominence.
The latest project in Kashmir is part of a memorandum of understanding signed between the Jammu and Kashmir government and the Kozhikode-based foundation. The agreement aims to replicate the Nadakkavu model across government schools in the state, ushering in a new era of modernization and excellence. The inauguration event was attended by several dignitaries, including Mr. K. E. Faizal, Chairman of KEF Holdings and Co-Founder and Director of the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, Mrs. Shabana Faizal, Vice-Chairperson of KEF Holdings and Co-Founder and Director of the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, and Mr. Zach Faizal, founder of Peec Mobility. High-profile officials such as Mr. Vijay Kumar Bhidhuri, IAS, Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir; Mr. Bilal Mohi ud Din Bhat, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar; and Mr. Tassaduq Hussain Mir, JKAS, Director of School Education Kashmir, also graced the occasion.
Mr. K. E. Faizal expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “Our mission has always been to create impactful, sustainable change through education. The success of the Nadakkavu model in Kerala has inspired us to extend our efforts to Kashmir, where we believe we can make a significant difference in the lives of many students. We are committed to providing quality education and fostering a brighter future for all.”
The Nadakkavu model, which elevated GHSS Nadakkavu to one of India’s top-ranked public schools, is set to replicate similar success at GGHSS Kothi Bagh. The school’s strategic location near Dal Lake and Lal Chowk, coupled with its rich history of academic excellence and notable alumni, positions it as an ideal candidate for this transformative endeavor.
Since its establishment in 2007, the Faizal and Shabana Foundation has been steadfast in its vision of ‘Giving to Create Impact.’ The foundation recognizes that sustainable programs and positive interventions are crucial for empowering individuals and communities. Their mission is to act as a catalyst, fostering a more equitable, happier, and better tomorrow for generations to come. Over the past decade, the foundation has launched numerous sustainable initiatives and collaborated with various programs across India and the Middle East, significantly impacting lives and communities across sectors.
In education and youth intervention, the foundation provides resources and opportunities that empower the younger generation. Their efforts in regenerative sustainable development promote environmentally friendly practices, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. Healthcare and wellness support represent another critical area, offering services and programs to enhance overall community health. During times of crisis, their humanitarian aid and assistance programs provide essential support to those in need. Community outreach initiatives engage with local communities, providing necessary resources and fostering unity and collaboration. Additionally, the foundation’s commitment to art and culture development helps preserve cultural heritage and encourages creativity through various programs and events.
The success of the Nadakkavu school has inspired the state government to reinvest in public education through the Pothuvidyabhyasa Yagnyam Mission. This mission aims to restore public trust in government schools and provide free education, echoing the foundation’s commitment to educational excellence. The Faizal & Shabana Foundation’s efforts extend beyond transforming a single school; they set a precedent for the future of public education, showcasing the profound impact of their educational initiatives.
The foundation now sets its sights on extending this transformative vision to Kashmir. Their latest project focuses on the Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School (GGHSS) in Kothi Bagh, Srinagar. Established near Dal Lake and Lal Chowk, GGHSS began as a middle school for girls in 1954, evolved into a high school in 1961, and further progressed to a higher secondary school in 1974. Historically renowned for academic excellence and vibrant extracurricular activities, the school has produced notable alumni, including doctors, engineers, writers, and politicians. GGHSS stands as a beacon of empowerment and women’s education in the Kashmir region.
This partnership represents a significant stride toward enhancing educational standards and opportunities for students in Kashmir, exemplifying the Faizal and Shabana Foundation’s commitment to creating impactful, sustainable change in education.
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CSR: Road Safety Convention hosted in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

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The CSR Journal
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CSR: Road Safety Convention hosted in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow, India: In a steadfast commitment to instill road safety awareness, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has organized a Road Safety Convention with school principals in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh as a part of their ongoing project- Mindset Development for our Future Generation.
The convention saw active participation from over 150 School Principals and teachers including private and government schools in Lucknow.
The convention witnessed the presence of esteemed chief guests, Shri Pradeep Singh (Joint Director for Education, Lucknow Mandal), Shri Rakesh Kumar (District Inspector of School, Lucknow), Smt. Manisha Dwivedi (Assistant District Inspector of School, Lucknow), Mr. Jai Shankar Srivastava (Assistant District Inspector of School, Lucknow) and Shri. Prabhu Nagaraj (Operating Officer, Corporate Affairs, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India) along with other dignitaries from Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI).
The current Indian traffic scenario showcases the need of discipline among road users. One of the major causes of traffic collision is the approach and mindset towards the road. Widespread disregard for traffic rules is one of the major factors in road accidents. Keeping this in mind, the primary objective of the convention was to showcase the innovative concept of Mindset Development for kids, with a focus on expanding the reach of road safety education to all students through training facilitated by schoolteachers.
With a unique focus on changing children’s mindset towards road safety from an early age, HMSI believes that proper education can have a positive influence not only on children but also on their parents. Anchored by HMSI’s global safety slogan ‘Safety for Everyone’, the company has curated three learning modules age wise to guide the young population develop a disciplined mindset, thereby making a substantial contribution in fostering a safer society.
During the convention, HMSI urged all school authorities to utilize the three learning modules, emphasizing need for collaboration to expand the benefits of this program to all students. The company invited schools to join hands, supporting the mission and working towards creating a brighter, safer future for India.
HMSI has successfully conducted 4 Road Safety conventions across the country during which it has trained over 800 school principals and teachers from more than 400 schools. These conventions have benefitted more than 1.8 lakh students, equipping them with vital road safety knowledge and practices. Building on this success, we are excited to expand our efforts with 10 more conventions planned for this financial year. Our goal is to cover 5 lakh students, ensuring that young individuals receive crucial road safety education.
The company is steadfast in its commitment to make the roads safer for everyone by nurturing a culture of vigilance and responsibility.
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s CSR commitment towards Road Safety:
In 2021, Honda globally made a vision statement for the year 2050 where it will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles. In India HMSI is working in line with this vision and the Government of India direction of reducing fatalities to half by 2030.
HMSI wants to be a company that Society wants to exist and is strongly focusing on Road safety awareness to all sections of society with unique ideas catering to each segment from school kids to Corporates and society at large.
One critical aspect of achieving this goal is inculcating a positive mindset towards road safety in our children by the year 2030 and continuing to educate them thereafter. Road safety education at schools and colleges is not only to create awareness but to inculcate a safety culture in young minds and turn them to be the safety ambassador. It empowers future generations to become responsible and significantly contribute to a safer society.
HMSI’s skilled safety instructors conduct daily programs at our 10 adopted traffic training parks (TTP) across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC) to make road safety education accessible to every part of society, and the initiative has already reached over 7.5 million Indians. HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through:
SCIENTIFICALLY DEVISED LEARNING MODULE: Honda’s skilled instructors set the foundation with theory sessions on road signs & markings, driver’s duties on road, riding gear & posture explanation and safe riding etiquettes.
1. PRACTICAL LEARNING: A special training activity on Honda’s virtual riding simulator was executed for all to experience over 100 possible dangers on road before actual riding.
2. INTERACTIVE SESSION: Participants were given danger prediction training known as Kiken Yosoku Training (KYT) which helps in enhancing rider/driver’s sensitivity to danger and ensures safe driving behaviour on roads.
3. EXISTING DRIVERS HONING RIDING SKILLS: Students & school staff members who are already existing riders tested & honed their riding skills through slow riding activities and riding on narrow planks.

 

 

 

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CSR: Second phase of Project LEAD initiative launched across India

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The CSR Journal
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CSR: Second phase of Project LEAD initiative launched across India
New Delhi, India: CASE Construction Equipment, a brand of CNH, has introduced the second leg of its LEAD (Livelihoods and Entrepreneurship Awareness Development) project across cities in India to promote rural entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. By equipping rural youth with entrepreneurial skills, the initiative aims to decrease urban migration while simultaneously promoting reverse migration. The project focuses on creating awareness about subsidiary income generation avenues in the agriculture and infrastructure sectors through training programs conducted via a mobile training center van.
The LEAD 2.0 initiative, launched from Faridabad, builds on the success of its initial phase by targeting the youth in an additional 1500 villages located in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Odisha, Bhubaneswar, and Jharkhand. The second edition aims to educate young talent on essential sectors for rural development, encompassing modern farming techniques and sustainable practices in agriculture, rural industries like poultry, dairy, beekeeping, and fisheries, as well as rural infrastructure with a focus on road construction and irrigation. By imparting knowledge and skills in these areas, the LEAD 2.0 initiative aims to empower regional youth, helping them to create subsidiary income generation avenues, thereby addressing the challenges of unemployment and economic disparity in rural areas and fostering a more balanced economic development and promoting self-reliance among the rural population.
Launching the LEAD 2.0 initiative, Emre Karazli, Vice President Construction Segment, APAC & AME said, “At CASE, we support inclusive growth and recognize the vital role that rural entrepreneurship plays in fostering comprehensive economic development. With LEAD 2.0, we reaffirm our commitment to giving the nation’s youngsters in rural areas the resources and opportunities they need to participate in the expanding economy.”
Speaking about the project, Shalabh Chaturvedi, Managing Director, CASE Construction Equipment – India & SAARC said, “Aligning with India’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, CASE has taken a significant step in enhancing the skills of rural youth by connecting them with opportunities and raising awareness. This initiative not only educates individuals in rural areas but also contributes towards socio-economic development in these regions. Through LEAD 2.0, our goal is to address unemployment, bridging the skill gap within the relevant sectors, where there is a high demand for skilled labour.”
The initial phase, LEAD 1.0, made a significant impact across 5 states and 1 union territory, encompassing 38 districts and reaching 3,113 villages. With an audience footfall of 61,981, the project saw 36,381 participants actively engaging in presentations. This widespread participation underscores the project’s success in empowering rural communities and highlights the necessity of continuing and expanding the initiative.
In response to the challenges of unemployment and economic disparity in rural areas, CASE is committed to fostering rural entrepreneurship in India. By collaborating with local partners and stakeholders, the company aims to implement innovative solutions that address these issues and are tailored to the unique needs of each region.
CASE offers a comprehensive range of construction equipment in the country and is a leader in the Vibratory Compactor segment. The company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh, produces Made-in-India products for both domestic use and export to over 100 markets worldwide.

 

 

 

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CSR: ‘Automotive Skill Labs’ initiative nurtures students with future-ready skills

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The CSR Journal
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Mumbai, India: Reaffirming its commitment to nurturing talent and creating a skilled workforce for the automotive industry, Tata Motors’ in collaboration with Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) has established dedicated ‘Automotive Skill Labs’ at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs). To date, 25 labs, fully equipped with essential tools, have been set up across select JNVs in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. This unique industry-academic joint initiative equips approximately 4000 students annually with practical automotive skills, with 30% of students enrolled being girls.
Aligned with the vocational courses envisioned in the ‘National Education Policy 2020’, Tata Motors’ ‘Automotive Skill Labs’ focuses on providing secondary and senior secondary students (studying in 9th to 12th standard) with essential subject knowledge, hands-on skills, and valuable industry exposure—all within the school premises. Additionally, students can visit Tata Motors’ plants, interact with service and dealership professionals, and attend lectures by industry experts to gain real-world experience and deepen their knowledge. Furthermore, instructors teaching at these labs are provided with the necessary training at the company’s plant locations. A testament to this immersive learning experience is an E-Rickshaw constructed by the students at the Skill Lab in Pune.
Upon successful completion of the programme, students receive joint certificates from Tata Motors and NVS. Post-schooling, the students can opt for a Diploma in Manufacturing Technology, including a full stipend and on-the-job training at Tata Motors’ manufacturing facilities. Alternatively, those interested in continuing with Tata Motors can pursue a BTech in engineering—a 3.5-year executive education programme in collaboration with select engineering institutes—leading to permanent employment after five years.
Emphasizing the commitment to enriching the lives of youth and bridging the skills gap in the automotive industry, Vinod Kulkarni, CSR Head, Tata Motors, said, “Our Automotive Skill Labs empowers youngsters from the underserved communities with employable skills, relevant for the evolving automotive sector in India. It creates pathways for students in grades 9th – 12th to pursue higher education and secure employment opportunities. Contributing to the ‘Skill India Mission’, this programme instills innovative thinking, entrepreneurial spirit, analytical mindset and critical communication skills amongst the students. The response from girl students has strengthened our commitment to empower future leaders who will contribute to India’s prominence on the global stage as envisioned by Viksit Bharat @2047.”
In 2023, over 1,600 students from this programme participated in the National Automobile Olympiad organised by the Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC), out of which 17 succeeded in reaching the second stage of the competition.

 

 

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

Top 10 CSR projects leaving an impact in India and the world

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The CSR Journal
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Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) helps gain customer trust, raise awareness, and encourage social change. Corporate Social Responsibility helps not just beneficiary communities and the environment, but the company practising it as well. CSR helps companies in developing credibility with their stakeholders. CSR offers them a chance to showcase the work that they have been doing for social and environmental issues, which in turn builds them a good reputation in front of customers, investors, and the wider community. This can lead to increased sales, improved brand recognition, and a more engaged and motivated workforce.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) allows businesses large and small to enact positive change and in return build customer trust. This is because consumers are more likely to opt for the products or services of a company which they know has been contributing positively to the environment and communities. For example, we would not think twice before purchasing bottled mineral water which belongs to a brand that is known for recycling plastic through its CSR. In short, a socially responsible company earns the respect of consumers and communities.
Several Multinational Corporations operating in India and across the world have been leaving an impact by focusing on combating malnutrition, hunger, taking care of mental health, maternal healthcare, combating climate change, protesting against animal cruelty, taking efforts into waste management, combating plastic and air pollution, combating lack of scope for education and skill development, and lack of access to proper healthcare. Today The CSR Journal takes a look into 10 such companies which have been leaving a positive impact through their CSR.

 

Top 10 impactful CSR projects

 

SBI Foundation Youth for India Conclave 2024

SBI Youth for India – SBI Foundation

SBI Foundation, the CSR arm of the State Bank Group runs its flagship SBI Youth for India Fellowship programme. The 13-month long programme offers an opportunity to educated urban youth– graduates and young professionals-between the age of 21-32 years, to collaborate with rural communities and 13 reputed NGOs across India to drive meaningful change in the society. The applicant for the Fellowship programme must be an Indian citizen, or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI), or Citizen of Bhutan or Nepal.
“The SBI Youth for India programme aims to fill the gap that exists between urban youth’s aspiration to contribute to the development sector and the rural reality, as also supplement the lack of qualified human resources with diverse educational and professional backgrounds in the NGOs working at the grassroots level. This initiative is the flagbearer of hope for those seeking to shape a brighter future for themselves and rural India,” says Mr. Sanjay Prakash, Managing Director & CEO, SBI Foundation.
The SBI Youth for India Fellowship works on 12 thematic areas such as Health, Rural Livelihood, Food Security, Environmental Protection, Education, Water, Technology, Women’s Empowerment, Self-Governance, Social Entrepreneurship, Traditional Craft and Alternate Energy. During the Fellowship programme, the Fellows can work on one of these 12 thematic areas as per their interest.
Prospective Fellows can apply at www.youthforindia.org/register
“The SBI Youth for India programme has witnessed enthusiastic engagement from numerous young Indian applicants from major metropolitan cities in India, Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. The programme has made a significant impact with a growing alumni network of over 580+ individuals, impacting more than 1,50,000 lives through the interventions of the Fellows in more than 250+ villages spanning 20 States across India,” as per a recent statement issued by SBI.

Project Nanhi Kali – Mahindra Group

Project Nanhi Kali was founded by Mahindra Group Chairperson Anand Mahindra in 1996 with the vision of creating a world where girls, despite the patriarchal challenges and societal biases they face since birth, are empowered through education. Project Nanhi Kali is a Corporate Social Responsibility programme working to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged girl children in India.
The project has been dedicated to providing holistic support to economically and socially disadvantaged girls enrolled in government schools across India. The project was started when India had low female literacy level and female workforce participation, along with social issues such as child marriage and child labour.
The CSR project is managed by the Naandi Foundation and the KC Mahindra Education Trust. It is aligned with Schedule VII of the Companies Act 2013, which covers the promotion of education and gender equality. This project also aligns with United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 (UN SDG 4) which talks about ensuring quality education to all and The UN SDG 5 which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
The project, designed to support underprivileged girls with 10 years of formal schooling has been working for the last 28 years towards the cause of girl child education.
From the academic year 2024-25, Project Nanhi Kali has started empowering girls from lower income strata by supporting them through Grades 6 to 10 with targeted educational initiatives. In alignment with National Education Policy 2020, the educational support provides 21st century skills training, making the transition from school to the workplace more seamless. The skills include financial and digital literacy as well as life skills. The program also integrates physical education to cultivate leadership, teamwork and fitness.
Project Nanhi Kali, which enables underprivileged girls to complete 10 years of schooling, has garnered support from over 250 corporate partners. Project Nanhi Kali works on a cost-effective and collaborative sponsorship model that allows both individuals and corporates to contribute towards supporting the education of girls for no more than Rs. 5400 per month.
Over the past two decades, this project has positively impacted the lives of more than 550,000 girls, affectionately known as “Nanhi Kalis,” across 15 states of India. The target is to educate 1 million girls by 2026.

Vedanta – Nand Ghar

Nand Ghar is the flagship project of Anil Agarwal Foundation and has been working towards eradicating child malnutrition, empowering women and providing quality education and healthcare facilities. Nand Ghars have been working to eradicate child malnutrition by ensuring nutritious meals to underprivileged children and aims to transform 14 lakh anganwadis across India.
Project Nand Ghar began its journey in 2015 with the vision to transform the lives of 7 crore children and 2 crore women across Anganwadis in India and are established in partnership with the Union Ministry of Women and Child development. Currently, over 6000 Nand Ghars have been set up across 14 states in India.
The Foundation has been able to reduce malnutrition levels while increasing pre-schoolers’ attendance at Nand Ghars across 14 states in India, as per a recent announcement. Recently, Nand Ghar unveiled a movement with actor noted Manoj Bajpayee. The movement is titled “Agar Bachpan Se Poocha Khaana Khaaya, Toh Desh Ka Kal Banaya”. The Vedanta Group has also signed a MoU with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for achieving a unified goal of eradicating malnourishment from rural India.
The programme aims to transform the Anganwadi network with modern infrastructure and integrated services including e-learning for children, primary healthcare services, and economic empowerment of women. This model of state-of-the-art Anganwadi will function as an education and health centre for children in the morning and as a skill development training centre for women in the second half.
The Nand Ghar project is working to enhance learning abilities and school-readiness in children by deploying e-learning modules and playful learning for education in collaboration with world-class partners. Nand Ghars are also ensuring women undergo entrepreneurship training, to start their micro-enterprises and provide credit linkages.
Nand Ghars offer a holistic set of services to its community members, including e-learning for children, primary healthcare and economic empowerment for women. Nand Ghars have partnered with organizations and are working closely with Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) to upgrade the Anganwadis services so that the community can utilize it to the best capacity and develop as resource centres for villages.

Tata Steel Foundation – MANSI

With an aim to address the problem of maternal and infant mortality in rural India, Tata Steel Foundation, the CSR arm of Tata Steel Limited has been running an initiative named ‘MANSI’ (Maternal and Newborn Survival Initiative) which reduces mortality among neonates and infants by enhancing the capacity of Government health volunteers (ASHAs/Sahiyas) in the Home Based Newborn Care (HBNC) system. MANSI is equipping community health workers with low-cost home-based practices to reduce neonatal, infant, and child mortality, and improve maternal health, which is a major national health issue.
The programme is currently operational in the states of Jharkhand and Odisha. The company’s flagship programme, MANSI won the National CSR Award in 2019.
Tata Steel, the National Health Mission (NHM), American India Foundation (AIF) and the Society for Education Action and Research in Community Health (SEARCH) have collaborated for the implementation of this project in a public-private partnership model. The project is being implemented in 12 blocks across Jharkhand and Odisha.
The programme focuses on building capacity of existing government voluntary health workers (Accredited Social Health Activists-ASHAs, known as Sahiyyas in Jharkhand). To overcome the constraint caused by low literacy levels of these activists, (Sahiyyas) classroom sessions are hosted where they are provided training, using largely visual/ pictorial aids, on parameters which would address the root causes and underlying reasons for neonate and infant mortality.
The project in its third phase (2021 onwards) has witnessed the participation of almost 2500 sahiyyas and over 200 project staff in Jharkhand’s Kolhan division, covering 38 blocks. In MANSI’s third phase, Tata Steel Foundation has expanded the programme by introducing MANSI Plus, a maternal, neonatal and infant mortality health programme. MANSI Plus is addressing issues like adolescent health, right marriageable age, teenage pregnancies and malnutrition — factors contributing to the mortality rate.

Integrated Cancer Care and Cure – BPCL

Indian public sector undertaking (PSU) under the ownership of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, BPCL (Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited) supports the CSR initiative ‘Integrated Cancer Care and Cure’ in partnership with the Indian Cancer Society.
BCPCL is supporting one project in Faridabad, Haryana which emphasizes on providing primary healthcare services to general public, cancer screening and awareness programme and palliative care for terminally cancer patients. The team comprises a doctor, nurse and a counsellor, who visits terminally ill patients twice a week to provide services such medical care, psycho-social counselling, etc.
BPCL has been financially supporting more than 450 underprivileged and patients belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families for undergo treatment at 6 hospitals namely Cancer Institute (Adyar- Chennai), Christian Medical College (Vellore- Tamil Nadu), Kailash Cancer Hospital (Vadodara-Gujarat), Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital Res. Centre (Bengaluru- Karnataka), Tata Memorial Hospital (Mumbai-Maharashtra) and Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute (Delhi). The project covers the holistic treatment cost of every patient such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, medicines, investigation/ test charges, prosthesis & growth hormone (if necessary) and as well as bone marrow treatment (if necessary).
As part of the ‘Integrated Cancer Care and Cure’ programme of BPCL, which includes both preventive and curative Cancer care, more than 700 Cancer screening camps for Oral, Cervical and Breast Cancer were either organised or supported by BPCL at Pune, Kolhapur, Varanasi and Kolkata in 2022.
‘Ugam-Victors of Cancer’ a voluntary cancer survivors’ support group is an integral part of this programme which has been formed by childhood cancer survivors for those who have completed the treatment and has been set-up to empower these survivors.
BPCL under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities also supports “Hospital on a train” or “Lifeline Express” which has operation theatres equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment. The project aims to reduce the burden of avoidable disability in communities in rural India through screening, early identification, medical and surgical intervention along with Information Education Communication programmes on various topics.

HCL Foundation – Harit

HCL Harit is one of the five flagship programmes of HCL Foundation, which is the CSR arm of HCL Technologies. HCL Harit – The green initiative aims to conserve, restore, and enhance indigenous environmental systems and respond to climate change in a sustainable manner through community engagement. HCL Harit is operational in nine states of India. It majorly focuses on areas like Afforestation and Habitat Restoration, Water Conservation, Animal Welfare, Environment Education and Coastal & Marine Conservation.
HCLFoundation launched Harit – The Green Initiative (earlier incubated under Uday – A holistic urban CSR initiative addressing all forms of urban poverty) a distinct flagship programme for Environment Action; with the vision ‘to conserve, restore and enhance indigenous environmental systems and respond to climate change in a sustainable manner through community engagement’. Harit is working to build scalable and replicable models that are economically viable, environmentally sustainable and inclusive.
Created with an aim to combat the threat of climate change, environmental degradation, and biodiversity loss, Harit is working to conserve, restore, and enhance indigenous environmental systems. The programme is implemented in collaboration with local communities.
In June last year, HCL Foundation renewed its partnership with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) for another three years to boost native biodiversity in the eco-sensitive regions of Uttarakhand. The extended partnership aims to enhance the positive impact of this initiative in restoring native biodiversity and habitat in Uttarakhand. HCL Foundation aims to plant an additional 10,000 Rudraksha saplings and other native species in the region by 2026. It also plans to organise community awareness programmes to restore degraded habitats and conserve native biodiversity.

Amazon – Amazon Future Engineer programme

The Amazon Future Engineer Programme (AFE) inspires children to explore computer science and coding. The programme is designed for students from underrepresented communities studying in classes 3 to 8. It seeks to motivate them to pursue higher education and careers in computer science. The programme also equips teachers with the skills to support students as they aspire for such careers.
The programme was launched in India in September 2021 to enable a level-playing platform and equal opportunity for every student, by bringing early exposure and access to CS education. It is a comprehensive childhood-to-career program aimed at young people, primarily between the age group of 8 – 24 years, who come from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds. The vision of the programme is that every young person should have equitable access to computer science education and career opportunities.
In 2022, the AFE programme supported 200 girls from low-income families with scholarships to pursue computer science education. The AFE programme offers a financial assistance for students in India. Girl students who have already gained admission into an engineering college through a central or state level entrance exam and have the total household annual income of INR 3 Lakh or less, are eligible to apply for the scholarship. These students are primarily from low-income families and lack the resources to study computer science and pursue careers in the technology industry.
Apart from financial assistance, AFE scholars also get an opportunity to explore internships at Amazon, interact with the technology teams, participate in skills-building hackathons, and get mentored by Amazon experts.
Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship recipients in 2024 in the USA will receive up to $40,000 in paid tuition to attend the college of their choice and a paid internship offer at Amazon after their first year of college to gain hands-on, practical work experience with mentorship from Amazon leaders. Scholars will also engage in networking opportunities with their peers and Amazon employees, receive skills development and mental health resources, and have access to an emergency grant fund for unexpected financial obligations that might prevent them from attending school.

World Without Waste – Coca Cola

Coca-Cola’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives focus on four key areas: World Without Waste, Sustainable Packaging, Water Stewardship, and Women’s Empowerment.
Under ‘World Without Waste’ programme, the company claims to have collected and recycled 69% of bottles and cans sold globally in 2021, which means it has been able to divert 120 billion bottles and cans from landfills. Coca-Cola is focusing on expanding recycling infrastructure and partnerships in developing countries.
As part of the ‘World Without Waste’ programme, Coca-Cola aims to collect and recycle a bottle or can for everyone it sells by 2030.
The company also claims that it has adopted sustainable packaging and achieved 48% recycled content in PET bottles globally in 2021. Which means, it has been able to reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 20% compared to 2019 levels. Coca-Cola aims to develop circular economy solutions for packaging. Coca-Cola has committed to making all of its packaging recyclable by 2025. Coca-Cola is working with suppliers to develop new packaging materials that are more sustainable and easier to recycle. The company is also investing in new recycling technologies to help increase recycling rates in developing countries.
Apart from the above, Coca-Cola is focusing on Water Stewardship (The company has committed to replenishing the water it uses in its operations), Women Empowerment (empowering women in its supply chain and communities), Sustainable agriculture, Climate solutions and Community development by supporting local communities through various programmes and initiatives.
Coca-Cola’s CSR efforts have been recognized by leading organizations, including the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and CDP.

Global Health Innovation Grants programme: Pfizer

Globally renowned American biopharmaceutical company Pfizer’s philanthropic arm, the Pfizer Foundation was established in 1953 and its goal is to help build healthier communities around the world. The foundation supports community-based innovations, promotes health equity and enables equitable access to vaccines.
Through Pfizer’s Global Health Innovation Grants programme, $100,000 is provided each year to twenty organizations to drive solutions to address vaccine-preventable illnesses in their communities.
Since 2016, The Pfizer Foundation’s Global Health Innovation Grants programme is working to support community-based initiatives that aim to improve quality of care and strengthen health systems in lower income countries. In 2023, 20 new recipients of the one-year grant programme have each received US $100,000 to drive innovative solutions that help address vaccine-preventable illness in their communities.
“Over the last seven years, organizations whose established efforts are further supported through the GHIG program have collectively helped to improve access to quality health services for more than 6 million people, trained more than 80,000 health workers, and established more than 1,800 new points of care,” as per Pfizer’s website.

 

CSR for Education – Apple

American multinational corporation and technology company Apple partnered with Malala Fund in 2018 to support the organisation’s work for girls’ education and equality. In providing support for Malala Fund grants, technology, curriculum and research, Apple is trying to ensure that every girl child’s accessibility to 12 years of free, safe, high-quality education.
Keeping with its commitment to improving education and community development through technology, the company has launched several initiatives aimed at providing access to technology and education to the underprivileged communities.
Apple has partnered with the Malala Fund to provide education to girls in countries such as India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Apple has also launched the ConnectED program, which aims to provide iPads, Macs, and other technology to students and teachers in underprivileged schools across the United States.
Talking about its CSR to enhance educational opportunities in India, in FY 2022-23, Apple supported Akanksha Foundation to provide high-quality education to low-income communities in Mumbai, Nagpur and Pune through financial support for teachers and other support. Apple has also been supporting The Akshaya Patra Foundation to ensure nutritious mid-day meals to school children in Puducherry, Telangana, and Karnataka.
The company has also been supporting EnAble India in the provision of high-quality education and training to people with disabilities in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal by providing financial support for training sessions and awareness building with disabled communities. Apple has been supporting Pratham Education Foundation to provide education and training to school dropouts, especially women in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

 

Youth Skills Day: Top CSR Initiatives Skilling Youth in India

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The CSR Journal
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CSR: Registrations open for 9th edition of Ratti Chhatr Scholarship programme
July 15 is observed as World Youth Skills Day with an aim to emphasise upon skilling the youth with the contemporary skills to empower them and promote economic development. With the advent of generative AI and other technologies, a lot of traditional jobs are facing existential crisis. Amid this, it is important to ensure that there is a workforce which is skilled and ready to work in the new environment using new technologies.
On this Youth Skills day, let us look at the top CSR initiatives that are working towards skilling the youth.

HDFC Parivartan

HDFC Bank has imparted skill training, covering high-demand sectors like IT/ITeS, healthcare and manufacturing, to about 3.25 lakh youth in the last 10 years under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. Skill development and livelihood enhancement is a key focus area of the bank’s Parivartan programme, its umbrella brand for all CSR initiatives. The bank is currently working on over 100 projects in the area of Skill Development across different states, covering multiple sectors, including IT/ITeS, retail, healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture.
HDFC Bank Parivartan’s youth training programmes since 2014 are addressing gaps in equipping young people with essential skills, knowledge, and competencies to thrive in today’s dynamic job market. These training programmes come with certifications from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), Sector Skill Council, or other qualified non-government agencies, and offer targeted training to prepare youth for successful careers and entrepreneurial ventures in key industries.
“Our Parivartan training programmes are designed not only to provide vocational skills linked with market demands but also to instill confidence and ambition in young minds,” HDFC Bank Head of CSR Nusrat Pathan said.
By collaborating with partners and focusing on sectors with high growth potential, the bank is committed to bridging the skills gap and creating a robust and inclusive workforce for the future, she added.

‘Climate Skills – Seeds for Transition’ Project

British Council in partnership with HSBC India, launched the “Climate Skills: Seeds for Transition India” project. This initiative aims to equip young people and communities in India with the skills needed to be resilient to the impending impact of climate change and to contribute to the opportunities of the transition to net zero.
The programme is part of British Council’s long-term international effort to establish a global climate skills approach that empowers youth, informs decision-makers about alternative climate education strategies, and addresses grassroots, national, and global climate challenges. It seeks to go beyond discussion and partner with governments, communities, and institutions to create tangible solutions for the future generation to better understand the impact of climate change across all aspects of life and equip them with the necessary skills needed in the wake of climate change.
The project works with young people aged 18-30 in five countries including India, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico and Vietnam.
Scott McDonald, Chief Executive, British Council said, “At the British Council, we are committed to empowering young people with the skillsand knowledge necessary to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change. Our partnership with HSBC on the ‘Climate Skills—Seeds for Transition India’ project reflects our shared vision of a more sustainable future. By equipping youth with essential climate resilience skills, they can lead the transition to greener economies and drive positive change in their communities. These skills are increasingly critical as we consider projections for the life of our planet and its natural resources.”
Speaking on the partnership, Hitendra Dave, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC India, said, “We have a long history of collaboration with the British Council and the co-creation of programmes that help achieve a larger social purpose. Our partnership on the Climate Skills programme will focus on youth and education, reflecting our joint commitment in equipping the younger generation to understand and adapt to climate change. Together, we aim to improve climate literacy and employability among marginalized youth communities in India.”
Running from July 2024 to February 2026, the project aims to raise awareness among key stakeholders, including government institutions, policymakers, higher educational institutions, and young people, encouraging participation and engagement. It seeks to directly engage 2,000 youth and train 300 master trainers in India/in each delivery country.
The initiative highlights the British Council’s leadership in climate action and its upcoming global climate change strategy. This UK-led international collaboration aims to resource local organisations, empower youth to take climate action, and provide alternative climate education approaches.  A unique aspect of the programme is its focus on empowering both urban and rural youth by integrating youth-led social action with climate education. The programme’s international connectivity aims to deliver locally led interventions and connects them with a global network across five countries.

Generation Green Campaign

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and OPPO India announced ‘Generation Green’ campaign. The 100-day programme—managed by 1M1B (One Million for One Billion)—promotes green skills among the youth through 5,000 internship opportunities across colleges in India.
Students from all streams, technical and non-technical, can participate in this internship program. The interns will undertake a range of hands-on activities that will inculcate their skills in project management, sustainability practices, effective communication, collaboration, research, and data analysis, enhancing their overall employability. Students will take the Green Pledge and participate in awareness sessions, E-surveys, and Green Day celebrations.
These efforts aim to increase environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices among students. All Interns who complete the programme’s activities will receive certificates jointly accredited by AICTE, OPPO India, and 1M1B.

Skill Development Initiative by NIIT Foundation and Angel One

India, home to one of the world’s largest – and youngest – workforce continues to face persistent challenges of finding their desired jobs. Despite the rise and growth of significant industries such as Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), and Information Technology (IT), among others, most of the country’s workforce struggles to achieve their desired jobs.
Addressing the need to bridge the skill gap, NIIT Foundation, in collaboration with Angel One has initiated a joint program aimed at providing training enhancing employability skills tailored to the industries’ needs. Central to their mission is the recognition that children/youth hailing from underprivileged communities often face limited access to essential resources, thereby leading to unequitable access to opportunities.
Launched in 2022, the collaborative initiative provides free-of-cost online courses to students aged between 18 and 28 years old, focusing on BFSI and BPO segments. Using a multifaceted approach by combining self-learning and instructor-led training modules through a Learning Management System (LMS), the program is catered to enable beneficiaries – often belonging to underserved communities – for developing employable skills, including functional English, basic IT knowledge, and sectoral proficiencies, thereby enhancing their employability prospects.
Since its inception, the program has witnessed a significant participation from female beneficiaries, with 58% female enrolments as compared to their male counterparts. Simultaneously, 71% of the total candidates (3,474 beneficiaries) successfully received placement in organizations such as Quess Corp, C-Tech, Findrive Services, HDB Financial, and DBS Mintek Pvt Ltd – demonstrating the project’s efficacy in equipping young individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to secure employment.
The impact of this program reaches far and wide, across various states and territories such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi NCR, and Karnataka. With the enrolment phase commenced in April 2024, the program is geared towards enhancing the skills and employability prospects of 3,750 youth from underprivileged backgrounds.

CSR Initiative Empowers India’s Youth For a Sustainable Future

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The CSR Journal
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Godrej & Boyce, a leading Indian conglomerate, reaffirms its commitment to upskilling and reskilling the youth to prepare them for the future. The company as of March 2024 has skilled close to 2 lakh youth across India.
India is at a critical point in its education and skill development journey, as the landscape of learning and development undergoes a significant transformation. This shift is driven by the demands of a digital economy, evolving job markets, and India’s ambitious SDG goals. As a result, an increasing demand is witnessed for green skills owing to companies taking a lead in prioritizing green technologies and actively seeking talent with expertise in this area. India’s green sector is poised to expand its workforce from 18.52 million to 35 million by 2047, (According to the Green Industry Outlook report by TeamLease Digital) offering vast opportunities for growth and development.
Godrej & Boyce has also incorporated green skills training into its program under its CSR initiative, Godrej Disha, aligning with its sustainability goals and the economy’s shift towards eco-friendly practices. The company has been providing training for solar technicians and has already skilled 100 candidates across India in FY24. The course enables experts to install, commission and maintain Solar PV Plant of a desired capacity designed as per the specifications of components.
Commenting on the rising trend of green jobs Ashwini Deodeshmukh, Head CSR & Sustainability Reporting, Godrej & Boyce said, “As industries shift towards AI and IoT-based operations, training a workforce skilled in current and emerging green technologies is critical. Further, as we transition to clean and renewable energy sources, it is increasingly important to reskill the existing workforce and train the future to ensure their employability. One such course that can aid people in gaining green skills and becoming ready for jobs of the future is the Solar PV Installation Technician course. With advancements in solar photovoltaic technologies and significant price reductions, solar electricity is an economically viable alternative to grid electricity. Additionally, in the interim budget 2024-25, the Indian government also announced incentives for rooftop solar that will create close to 10 million jobs in the sector which will open avenues for employment. Aligning with the government’s vision and contributing to the growth of the nation, we at Godrej & Boyce have introduced the solar technician course as a part of our CSR skill development programme – DISHA”
Godrej & Boyce has been at the forefront of promoting vocational training and skill development through its various initiatives. In FY22 the company launched The Godrej Disha Digital Training program to bridge the digital skill gap among the youth graduating from colleges in Tier-2 and 3 cities. It features a gamut of courses like Robotics and Automation, Business Analytics and Dashboarding, Digital Marketing and Smart Machine Operator – Future Skills. So far, they have has trained over 600 students under this initiative. The company aims to bridge the gap between industry requirements and academic training, making students employable and future-ready.
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Youth Empowerment: FICCI YFLO Delhi in Collaboration with M3M Foundation Unveils a Premier Skill Academy in Noida

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The CSR Journal
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Youth Empowerment: FICCI YFLO Delhi in Collaboration with M3M Foundation Unveils a Premier Skill Academy in Noida
The Young FICCI Ladies Organization (YFLO) Delhi, in collaboration with M3M Foundation and the implementing partner National Institute for Educational & Development (NIED), proudly inaugurated a premier Skill Academy in Sector 49, Noida today. This academy aims to revolutionize youth skilling and empowerment in the region, offering cutting-edge programs to enhance employability and foster personal growth. The new academy is aiming to provide skill training to more than 400 young adults in the first year.
Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson of YFLO Delhi, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The launch of Skill Academy represents unwavering commitment to equipping the youth with essential skills for their professional and personal development. I am proud to share our vision to train around 1,000 youth in 2024, with a special focus on empowering women. In addition to this training initiative, our YFLO members will also mentor young entrepreneurs, providing them with the guidance and support they need to succeed. Through these efforts, we aim to foster a new generation of skilled and confident individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their communities and industries.”
The inauguration ceremony welcomed Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson of YFLO Delhi, and Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee & President of M3M Foundation, along with esteemed dignitaries and community leaders to celebrate this pivotal moment in Noida’s educational landscape. To support and show more solidarity core committee members of YFLO Delhi, Ms. Neha Joshi Jain, Ms. Rashi Anand, and Ms. Divya Poddar Arya were also present to extend their heartfelt commitment to the program.
 In his address, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee & President of M3M Foundation emphasized the transformative impact of such initiatives, stating, “Skill Academy embodies the spirit of innovation and empowerment, crucial for nurturing future leaders and change-makers.”
Skill Academy is poised to become a pivotal hub for skill development, offering specialized courses in technology, entrepreneurship, and vocational training. The academy’s curriculum is tailored to meet industry demands, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the competitive job market.
The collaboration between YFLO Delhi and M3M Foundation, underscores a shared vision to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing youth with opportunities to excel and contribute meaningfully to society. Through this initiative, YFLO Delhi, and M3M Foundation reaffirm their dedication to advancing education and socioeconomic development in Noida.
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World Youth Skills Day: Bal Raksha Bharat Expands its YIAL Program Nationwide

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World Youth Skills Day: Bal Raksha Bharat Expands its YIAL Program Nationwide
With an aim to leverage and catalyze the entrepreneurial potential of Indian youth, particularly in the realm of women-led social and green enterprises, Bal Raksha Bharat, India’s leading independent child rights NGO, is excited to announce the expansion of Youth Innovation and Action Lab (YIAL), a catalyst to create LOCAL-entrePRENEURS. YIAL is a unique incubation and accelerator programme that brings together a cohort of youth and adolescents to identify problems faced by them, and their communities to develop and pilot ingenious solutions.
This transformative initiative aims to empower marginalised youth in India, to become catalysts for change in their communities through entrepreneurship and innovation. After a successful roll-out in Delhi, its expansion across small towns in Bihar is now enabling over 200+ youth develop nine entrepreneurial propositions covering sectors like Farming, Goat Rearing, Mushroom Cultivation, Stitching Centre, Broom making and Food Cart etc,. 
The YIAL initiative will flag off in other states like Karnataka, Odisha, West Bengal and Maharashtra phase-wise. This large-scale initiative will target both urban and rural areas, ensuring that marginalized youth have the support they need to overcome socio-economic barriers and realize their full potential
Various studies reflect on India being home to the world’s largest youth population, with ~66% of its total populace under 35 years of age. The country’s youth workforce is projected to reach 1.08 billion by 2050. 20% of households face disproportionate barriers to education, employment and skilling opportunities. 23.22% youth were estimated to be unemployed in India in 2022. 27.2% of India’s youth, (nearly 175 million) are not engaged in education, employment, or training. 
The YIAL initiative has already made significant progress in Bihar, where youth collectives in seven Gram Panchayats (83 villages) in Gaya District, four Gram Panchayats (13 villages) in Sitamarhi District, and two Wards (6 slums) in Patna-Urban are actively engaged. Around 15 members of the youth trade group from Gaya District post a 2-day training on organic farming is making a net profit of 10680/- today. Around 9 units are engaged in goat rearing micro-business having sales of approx. 20000/. 
Sudarshan Suchi, CEO of Bal Raksha Bharat, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “With India’s youth population expected to grow by 8 million annually over the next decade, the potential for economic growth is substantial. YIAL is a critical step towards harnessing the potential of India’s youth and by extending its reach and impact we aim to empower many more youth nationwide in the future. Young entrepreneurs drive innovation, leading to new products, services, and technologies that can boost the economy. If India aspires to be a developed nation by 2047, such an inclusive growth is crucial for achieving this goal. These young boys and girls will have a cascading effect to pass on this opportunity to many more, and empowered youth can build sustainable businesses that contribute to long-term economic stability”.
Pranab Kumar Chanda, Head of Economic Well-Being, Social Protection, and Livelihood at Bal Raksha Bharat, explains, ” Our goal with YIAL is to create a structured pathway for marginalized youth to transform their ideas into viable enterprises. This program not only enhances their entrepreneurial skills but also instils a sense of agency and resilience that is crucial for overcoming socio-economic barriers. We will try to create an ecosystem of opportunities, build capacities for like-minded NGO’s, support government initiatives and draw learnings 5 years down the line and scale it up”.
The YIAL program unfolds in three key phases: incubation, marketplace pitching, and business acceleration. Participants engage in intensive camps to conceptualize innovative solutions and gain vital 21st-century skills. These ideas were then presented at the Ideas Ka Adda Marketplace, enabling participants to secure seed money and refine their concepts based on real-world feedback. Finally, participants developed business plans, secured seed capital, and receive mentorship for sustainable development, including training in technology expansion and connections with investors.
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