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June 7, 2025
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Madhya Pradesh Govt planning to support impregnated minor rape victims

By
Ahana Bhattacharya
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Madhya Pradesh Govt planning to support impregnated minor rape victims
In a compassionate move to support minor rape victims in the state, the Madhya Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has made a major announcement. The state government is planning to provide assistance and support to the pregnant minor rape victims, who get pregnant as a result of rape and their children. The proposal was approved in a cabinet meeting held on Tuesday.
The cabinet has allocated a fund of Rs 10 lakh to each District Collector across the state to provide essential support for minor rape victims who become pregnant. The money will be provided from the Nirbhaya Fund, which is an amount of money set up by the central government to support initiatives that ensure the safety of women and children. The fund was announced in 2013 by the then Finance Minister, P. Chidambaram, following the Delhi gang rape case in 2012.
The initiative ensures that both the victim and her child are supported throughout their recovery and development.
The scheme will be implemented across all 55 districts of the state under Sections 4 and 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 (amended 2019).
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav

The fund allocated to the District Collector will be used for:

Dedicated units will be established for babies born as a result of sexual assault.
Psychological counselling will be provided to help the minor victims recover from mental trauma caused by rape.
The fund will also be used to ensure that the education of the victim is not interrupted.
Victim will also be provided vocational training if required. The government offers financial assistance of Rs 4,000 per month to those opting for vocational training. Support will be provided till the victim turns 23 or gets employed.

Eligibility

Financial support will be provided only to those victims who get pregnant as a result of rape. As per the POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses) under Section 6, the scheme will only apply in cases of aggravated penetrative sexual assault. The victim will have to submit a copy of the FIR to gain benefits of the scheme.

Recent cases of minor rape in Madhya Pradesh

A visually challenged girl was allegedly raped by a temple priest in Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh within the temple premises. The victim’s family recently filed police complaint after she became pregnant.
A 5-year-old girl found dead in a house in a multi-storeyed building in Bhopal in the last week of September, who was allegedly raped and murdered. The girl’s body was found in a water tank at the apartment building, with police arresting her neighbour for allegedly raping and murdering her.
In August this year, the police arrested a 69-year-old man for allegedly raping a teenage girl in Madhya Pradesh’s Shahdol district. The accused allegedly raped the 16-year-old girl after finding her alone at her home, as revealed by the Beohari police. A police complaint was filed by the minor’s family on 15th August.
A three-year-old girl was allegedly raped by her school teacher in the state capital Bhopal on 18th September this year. The accused has been booked and arrested.

United Nations Day: Major Issues and Challenges of UN

By
Hency Thacker
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October 24th is observed as the United Nations Day every year, across the globe. The day is meant to commemorate the foundation of the United Nations (UN) in 1945, in the aftermath of the World War II. The organisation was established with the hope that it will be central to preventing any conflicts occurring in future, aid cooperation between nations, and promote peace, security, and human rights at a global level.
Ever since it was established, the organisation has become a global institution that has played a significant role shaping the international relations between nations on various issues such as trade, security, and humanitarianism. However, it has been criticised time and again, for its ineffectively in current times owing to its failure in adapting to the changing global landscape. On this note, let us have a look at some of the criticism that UN faces today.

Major issues with the United Nations

Lack of Balanced Power

Considering the violence that occurred and numerous lives lost during the World War II, the central role that UN was expected to play was to make sure a crisis like that is averted in the future. For this purpose, the United Nations Security Council was established with five permanent members that had an unlimited veto power. However, this has been proved to be a complete failure, as the countries focus on their personal agenda, and the council is mostly unable to reach a consensus, which often results in no action taken against the perpetrators of violence.

Inability to prevent conflicts

The United Nations as a platform is widely accepted because of its widespread membership. But has not been effective in preventing conflict. This is mainly because it foes not have the political leverage against the powerful countries. This is why, it was unable to prevent the escalation of Russia Ukraine war, and is still unable to put a stop to it. It was completely helpless in the recent violence occurring in Lebanon, Israel, and Palestine.

Unequal Representation

The UNSC has five permanent members – USA, UK, Russia, China, and France. These countries do not necessarily represent the current global order very accurately. The growing global powers such as Brazil, India and South Africa, that have a significant influence in geo-politics, does not have the same authority in UNSC, which creates a lack of trust among these countries. This inequality in representation has also caused grave dissatisfaction among countries from regions like Africa, Latin America, and Asia. The countries feel that because of this lack of representation, the organisation ends up serving the interests of only the powerful nations, rather than the international community.

Inability to Address Global Challenges

The United Nations has failed significantly in addressing the current global challenges such as climate change, cybersecurity, pandemics, rise of authoritarianism, etc. This is attributed to the gaps in its framework and bureaucracy issues. For example, the WHO was criticised for the way it managed the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics even stated that the organisation that should have been leading charge in combating the pandemic, was reduced to playing catch-up.

How can UN stay relevant in current times?

The United Nations is an organisation with an extreme potential. However, in order to ensure that it does not end up like its predecessor League of Nations, it will need to make some structural changes to stay relevant.

Reformation of the UNSC

One of the major organs of the UN that is facing persistent criticism is the structure of United Nations Security Council. This needs to be restructured at the earliest because the structure with five permanent members holding unlimited veto power, is not reflective of the current global reality. It is essential to include countries like India, South Africa, and Brazil in the permanent membership of UNSC to ensure inclusiveness in its decision making. In addition several countries have also pointed out that having unlimited veto powers have often proved counter-productive in stopping mass violence at a global scale. Thus, the countries should be prevented or refrained from using veto in such situations.

Adapt to address the new Global Challenges

Everyday, there is a news piece on a new kind of scam, that is affecting the citizens across the world. With growth in AI and other forms of technology these instances will only rise. Amid this, it is essential for the countries of the world to collaborate and address the issue of cybersecurity decisively. The United Nations needs to be more empowered to ensure that this issue is tackled appropriately.
Similarly, the institutions of UN that are aimed at addressing the issues of climate change, combat desertification, prevent global pandemics, etc. such as UNEP or WHO have to be strengthened and empowered with better resources and governance capability.

Promote Multilateralism

Apart from this, in order to remain relevant, the UN must champion multilateralism and foster cooperation among nations. In a world that is getting increasingly polarised, with rising nationalism and isolationism, the UN must reaffirm its commitment to collective action and diplomacy. In order to achieve this, there is a need to build trust among member states, strengthen regional partnerships, and promote dialogue and negotiation for the resolution of a conflict.

CSR: India’s First Public Service Awareness Film on Disability

By
The CSR Journal
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CSR: India’s First Public Service Awareness Film on Disability
In a unique, first-of-its kind initiative 1000 PVR INOX screens will soon start showing a public service awareness films reaching millions of viewers over two weeks. The Public Service Awareness film was launched by Rajesh Agarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment on Wednesday.

 

The National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) along with its partners PVR INOX Limited, the largest and most premium film exhibitor in India, Delhi Metro Rail Cooperation (DMRC) and Mphasis F1 Foundation on Wednesday announced the launch of “Inclusive Bharat Viksit Bharat,” film focused on disability. This film addresses the everyday challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and attempts to instill a deeper understanding and compassion among audiences nationwide.
The first-of-its-kind film serves as a powerful catalyst for change, encouraging viewers to engage in meaningful discussions about disability rights and the importance of inclusion. Through compelling narratives and real-life stories, the film aims to create an emotional connection that inspires action and attempts to dispel the stereotypes around disability.
Secretary Shri Rajesh Agarwal, Department of Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) said, “Govt of India remains steadfast towards creating a society where every person with disability can lead a dignified life. This public service announcement is a critical tool in raising awareness about the barriers faced by persons with disabilities, and it highlights the urgent need for collective responsibility in ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We commend NCPEDP, Mphasis F1 Foundation and PVR Inox for their efforts in bringing this important message to the forefront and look forward to seeing its positive impact across the nation.”
Deepa Menon, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications and CSR, PVR Inox Limited said “Cinema has always been a powerful storyteller, shaping perceptions and influencing social change, and now it’s amplifying the voices of millions of people with disabilities who have often been marginalized and left unheard, shedding light on their experiences and the urgent need for a more inclusive society. This film aligns with our commitment to make cinema accessible to all through multiple initiatives such as sensory screenings and facilities for people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to experience the magic of cinema. All in all, we are proud to be part of this vital initiative, and through our extensive network of theatres, we aim to amplify this essential message, inspiring audiences to embrace a more inclusive perspective.”
Deepa Nagraj, Global Head of Communications, Sparkle Innovation Ecosystem, ESG, and CSR at Mphasis applauded the initiative and said, “At Mphasis F1 Foundation, we are committed to fostering an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive. This PSA is an important step toward raising awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and advocating for a more accessible and equitable environment. By bringing this message to theatres across the country, we aim to create mass awareness and promote collective action to build a more inclusive India. We are proud to support NCPEDP in this crucial initiative that aligns with our vision of driving positive social change through meaningful action.”
“As India strives to become Viksit by 2047, the idea of inclusivity and issues of disabled people should get mainstreamed. This film is a powerful step toward that change, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and role it plays in fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to a richer, more diversified society. The power of the film to promote attitudinal change remains significant,” said Arman Ali, Executive Director, NCPEDP.
This one-of-a-kind film, also supported by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), draws attention to the invisible yet persistent challenges that people with disabilities face every day, while painting a vivid picture of what a truly inclusive India could look like if we come together to break down these barriers. From navigating public spaces to accessing opportunities, the film envisions a society where inclusion is at the heart of development.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

STEMpowering Initiative: Project Digital Equalizer to Boost STEM Education in Uttar Pradesh

By
The CSR Journal
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STEMpowering Initiative: Project Digital Equalizer to Boost STEM Education in Uttar Pradesh

Covestro (India) Private Limited is proud to announce the launch of one of its largest CSR initiatives, the STEMpowering, Digital Equalizer Project, in collaboration with the American India Foundation Trust. This transformative initiative, inaugurated today, is designed to bridge the digital divide in under-resourced public schools across Uttar Pradesh by training over 125 teachers and reaching over 10,000 students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, preparing a future-ready generation.

The Digital Equalizer program will be implemented across 25 government schools, primarily focusing on students in grades 6 to 10. Over the next three years (2024–2027), the project is expected to directly impact up to 10,000 unique beneficiaries. The initiative aligns perfectly with the company’s mission of fostering innovation and social responsibility, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.

Empowering through STEM:

As part of the initiative, teachers will undergo comprehensive training, equipping them with modern tools and techniques to integrate technology into their classrooms. Students will be exposed to engaging STEM concepts through workshops, external visits, annual showcases, and exhibitions. Regular assessments and headmaster meetings will ensure that the program’s objectives are being met and continuously monitored for success.

Commenting on the launch, Kavita Desai, Head of Corporate Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility at Covestro (India), said:

“This initiative exemplifies our belief in driving impact beyond business. By empowering the next generation with essential STEM skills, we are not only contributing to their personal development but also to the growth of the community and the country. Together, we can push boundaries and create future innovators who will shape a better tomorrow.”

Key Highlights of the Digital Equalizer Project:

Reach: 25 schools across Uttar Pradesh

Focus: STEM education for students in grades 6 to 10

Beneficiaries: 10,000+ students, 125+ trained teachers over three years

Goal: Preparing government school students, especially girls, for future STEM opportunities

Through this initiative, Covestro (India) reaffirms its commitment to fostering innovation, empowering education, and standing together for a brighter future. The STEMpowering, Digital Equalizer project was inaugurated with great enthusiasm, and the event takeaway emphasized the transformative potential of STEM education in shaping the future of young learners across rural Uttar Pradesh.

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

CSR: Free Eye Camp organised in collaboration with Ushodaya Laser Eye Hospital at Telangana’s Rangaipally village

By
The CSR Journal
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CSR: Free Eye Camp organised in collaboration with Ushodaya Laser Eye Hospital at Telangana’s Rangaipally village
Hyderabad, India: MS Agarwal Foundries Pvt Ltd (MSAF), a main steel producer headquartered in Hyderabad, reaffirmed its commitment to community welfare by organizing a free eye camp in collaboration with Ushodaya Laser Eye Hospital. Held in Rangaipally village, Manoharabad Mandal, the initiative provided essential healthcare services to over 100 villagers, primarily the elderly, who received free eye check-ups and medication.
The eye camp was organized to address common vision problems among the elderly and raise awareness about the importance eye health. Patients who required further medical attention were provided with referrals for additional care. MSAF’s local team ensured the camp ran smoothly and was accessible to the community.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anurag Agarwal, Executive Director, MS Agarwal Foundries Pvt Ltd, said, “As a leading steel manufacturer, we recognize the importance of supporting the communities around us. This eye camp reflects our commitment to improving the quality of life for the elderly in these villages by providing them with the healthcare services they need.”
Mr. Rachuri Narasimham, Assistant Vice President, MS Agarwal Foundries Pvt Ltd, added, “The successful turnout at this eye camp demonstrates the community’s need for accessible healthcare. We are proud to partner with Ushodaya Laser Eye Hospital to bring essential services to those who need them most, reinforcing our commitment to corporate social responsibility.”
Dr. Rithika, camp in-charge, Ushodaya Laser Eye Hospital, added, “We are thankful to MSAF for sponsoring this eye camp. Their involvement has enabled us to deliver essential medical care to the elderly and spread awareness about the importance of eye health in the community.”
This initiative underscores MS Agarwal Foundries’ dedication to corporate social responsibility and its ongoing efforts to make a positive impact in the lives of local communities.

 

 

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

 

 

 

How and why we should celebrate a compassionate and animal-friendly Diwali

By
The CSR Journal
-
Mumbai, India: As Diwali preparations begin, animal protection organization, Humane Society International/India, has urged citizens to celebrate a noise-free and animal-friendly Diwali to embrace a festival that prioritizes the well-being of everyone.
Every year, thousands of animals and birds are left frightened, injured and lost because of an increase in air and noise pollution. Since animals have a far more acute sense of hearing than us, the noise of firecrackers has a terrifying effect on them and impacts their hearing and causes immense stress. For instance, fireworks can emit sounds of up to 190 decibels, while damage to human hearing begins from 110 decibels. Given that animals especially dogs and birds have a hearing sensitivity significantly greater than ours, the intensity of these sounds can be overwhelming for them and in birds, cause death.
Around Diwali, animal shelters frequently experience a rise in cases of lost and runaway pets. Many of these animals are frightened, anxious and often burned. Dogs, whether street or pet, are often seen running helplessly across busy roads, frequently facing the threat of being relocated.
Keren Nazareth, senior director, Companion Animals and Engagement, Humane Society International/India said: “Lets ensure that our festivities do not come at the expense of our furry and feathered friends. We urge everyone to celebrate the festival of lights as it is meant to be celebrated – with loved ones, lamps, lights, sweets, delicious savouries and not loud firecrackers.”
For those wondering how to let animals spend a happy Diwali, HSI/India has some ‘sound’ advice.

For street animals:

Do not burst loud firecrackers.
If you care for community dogs and cats around your neighbourhood, make sure they are wearing tags labelled with their names and your phone numbers.
Refrain from setting firecrackers off near an animal shelter or zoo. Any noisy firecracker can cause panic and fear among the animals.
Encourage friends, family and your society to celebrate with noise-free alternatives to fireworks, minimizing stress for animals.
Before Diwali sets in, create awareness about the impact of fireworks on animals through with your friends and family.
Provide animals shelter in an area where they can be safe from firecrackers and noise.
Share information on social media about the importance of protecting street animals during Diwali to inspire others to help.
Prepare a first-aid kit to help injured animals. Have a bucket full of water handy for an emergency and to dispose of used sparklers.

For pets:

Keep your pets indoors in a familiar room. Make arrangements for plenty of hiding places like under furniture or a quiet corner. Pets have a heightened sense of hearing, so jolts and loud noises cause many animals to flee in search of a safe haven. Ensure pets
are wearing collars and identification tags with current contact information.
Store fireworks well out of the way of your pets and dispose of used fireworks safely the morning after the fireworks season.
Keep all doors and windows closed and draw the curtains to reduce noise.
Try to distract them with treats, toys or music indoors before celebrations begin.
Take your dogs for a walk during the daytime before the celebrations begin. Never walk them near places where others are lighting firecrackers.
Check your vet’s availability during Diwali, ahead of time, in case of an emergency.
If your pet is prone to anxiety or distress from loud noises, consult a veterinarian. Medication, such as anti-anxiety or calming agents, should only be given under a vet’s prescription.
Keep contact information for local municipal corporations and surrounding shelters handy, and approach them immediately in case of lost pets. If you find lost pets, either take them to the address on the tag or a local animal shelter.

 

 

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Manthan School Students Honor Police Officers with Handmade Cards on Police Commemoration Day

By
The CSR Journal
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Manthan School Students Honor Police Officers with Handmade Cards on Police Commemoration Day
Telangana, India: The students of Manthan School, Hyderabad, on 21st October visited the Kollur Police Station and the RC Puram Traffic Police Station to express their heartfelt gratitude to the local police officers on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day.
The Student Council members from the primary and middle school segments expressed their gratitude to the police by presenting handmade greeting cards and gifts in honour of their service.
The visit, organised to give students an inside look at the workings of the police force, was centred around a special ceremony where the students had the opportunity to interact with the officers and show their appreciation. In a touching gesture, the students created personalised cards and posters and delivered speeches recognising the dedication and bravery of the police personnel.
Along with the cards, the students also presented saplings, and a takeaway goodie to the personnel at the police station, acknowledging their tireless efforts to maintain law and order. Senior officers, including the Station House Officer (SHO) of Kollur Police Station, Mr. K. Ravinder and Sub-Inspector, Mr. S. Suresh were among those honoured by the students during the visit.
In addition, the students participated in a solemn ceremony commemorating police personnel who have lost their lives in service. The visit included tours of the Kollur Police Station and the RC Puram Traffic Police Station, where students learned about daily police operations, from maintaining law and order to traffic management. The police personnel of Kollur Police Station had also arranged gifts to the students as a token of affection they have towards the young souls.
Manthan School’s Principal, Mr. Surjeet Singh, praised the students for their initiative, stating, “The students that visited the police stations had a great experience, and this has helped them to understand the values of being a responsible citizen in a clearer way. Manthan community is proud of the police fraternity and extends its gratitude towards them for their unparalleled service towards society.”
One student, reflecting on the visit, shared, “Me and my fellow classmates were thrilled to have got a chance to express our appreciation and gratitude to these real-life heroes, the police personnel who work selflessly to assure the safety and wellbeing of our society. It was a unique experience for us to interact with the police and closely learn about how the police operates on a daily basis. This experience has certainly increased my respect for the Police fraternity.”

 

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CSR transforms livestock quality and empowers dairy farmers in Chhattisgarh

By
The CSR Journal
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CSR transforms livestock quality and empowers dairy farmers in Chhattisgarh
ACC, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is committed to facilitating sustainable livelihoods for communities where it operates. Along with the Adani Foundation, the Company is transforming the lives of dairy farmers in villages near ACC Jamul by enabling them to improve their dairy production through sex sorted semen (SSS) artificial insemination (AI) for the livestock.
The Adani Foundation’s Livestock Development Project (LDP) provides access to SSS AI services, training, and guidance, empowering dairy farmers to enhance their livestock and boost their incomes. The SSS AI technology increases likelihood of birthing a female calf from 50% for regular AI to 90% and is hence a boon for dairy farmers.  The project has proved a tremendous success.
Heelendra Sahu, a 35-year-old farmer from Nandini Khundini village, faced financial challenges supporting his family of seven. However, life took a turn for the better when he decided to implement SSS AI on his Desi cow. The result was the birth of a Sahiwal calf, injecting a much-needed boost to his family’s income.
Sudarshan Yadav, a 34-year-old farmer from Pathariya town, manages a large family of 11 members with an annual income of Rs. 1 lakh through farming and animal husbandry. Inspired by the Adani Foundation’s dairy training, he implemented SSS AI on his Holstein Friesian (HF) cow. This resulted in the birth of a healthy female HF calf, significantly boosting his dairy production.
ACC and the Adani Foundation actively work towards improving rural livelihoods. These success stories demonstrate the power of agricultural innovation in empowering farmers, enabling them to secure a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.

CSR initiative to empower 500+ local artisans this festive season

By
The CSR Journal
-
CSR initiative to empower 500+ local artisans this festive season
This Diwali, Zepto continues to go heavy on its purpose of supporting local artisans, working with 50 families of the Prajapati clan, a community ofKumhars (potters) whose craft dates back to the age-old traditions of Ramayana. For generations, these artisans have hand-crafted earthen products that are integral to Indian festivals.
Zepto is championing local artisans by bringing handmade earthen Diyas directly to homes across India. Throughout the festive season, Zepto has worked with over 500 artisans, helping them sell products like Ganesh idols, Durga idols, Marapacchi dolls, and now, Diwali Diyas, through its platform. Traditionally, these artisans work tirelessly until the last minute, often selling their products on roadside stalls or door-to-door. However, with Zepto’s collaboration, these artisans are reaching a much wider audience in a more efficient and dignified way.

Pradeep Kumar, a local Diya artisan, expressed his gratitude for the partnership in this film: “We’ve been crafting Diyas since childhood, and Diwali is when all our hard work finally pays off. This year, Zepto helped us bring our Diyas to homes across the country, connecting us with a much wider audience. It’s been a game-changer for us, and I’m grateful for their support.”
Zepto Co-founder & CEO, Aadit Palicha, shared his thoughts on LinkedIn:
“We believe in empowering local entrepreneurs at Zepto, and we salute Pradeep and others who are crafting beautiful Diyas to light up Diwali. It’s an honour to help bring their work to millions of homes this festive season.”
By leveraging Zepto’s platform and demand forecasting, artisans can avoid the pressures of last-minute selling, allowing them to celebrate their own Diwali with pride. This initiative bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern consumers, enabling artisans to thrive in a competitive market. With this collaboration, Zepto aims to reach 10x more homes this Diwali than last year, ensuring that all festive needs are met.
Zepto remains committed to building a platform that supports local artisans, connecting them with a wider audience through its quick commerce model. By enabling sellers on the platform, Zepto ensures a diverse assortment of products, making traditional craftsmanship and fresh, sustainable offerings more accessible to homes in a convenient, modern way.
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CSR: New round of Global Change Award Launched to accelerate innovation for a net-zero textile industry by 2050

By
The CSR Journal
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CSR: New round of Global Change Award Launched to accelerate innovation for a net-zero textile industry by 2050
The H&M Foundation today announces a significant shift in its overall strategic direction, with a new mission of promoting just and fair climate solutions for the textile industry, with the innovation challenge Global Change Award (GCA) being the first initiative to reflect this shift. 
Going forward, the H&M Foundation will focus on supporting the textile industry in halving its greenhouse gas emissions every decade by 2050, while promoting a just and fair transition for both people and the planet. Therefore, GCA is now seeking innovative ideas addressing different high emission areas across the textile industry value chain, including sustainable materials and processes, responsible production, mindful consumption, and ‘wildcards’ that supports the GCA purpose. Today, only a fraction of philanthropic capital is directed to climate.
“The textile industry needs all hands-on deck if we are going to meet our climate goals by 2050, and we must ensure this transition is fair for everyone. I really believe that innovation is key to decarbonising the industry, and that the Global Change Award can play a role in identifying and growing future changemakers whose ideas can have a transformative impact if given the right support,” says Karl-Johan Persson, Board Member of the H&M Foundation.
Since its launch in 2015, 46 innovations have received support and a combined grant of 8 million euros from the GCA. While it continues to award 10 winners every year, with each receiving 200,000 EUR, there are some key updates to align the award, and its Changemaker Programme, with H&M Foundation’s new strategic focus.
“While the industry is hungry for innovation, we see that a holistic perspective to decarbonisation is often lacking, and the critical early stages of an innovator’s journey overlooked”, says Annie Lindmark, the newly appointed Programme Director for Innovation at the H&M Foundation. “The Global Change Award is now aiming to back a wider range of changemakers with early-stage innovations that can help accelerate the textile industry’s path to net-zero and equip them to build solutions that benefit both people and the planet – this is where we as a philanthropy can make a real difference.”
The textile industry has many innovation challenges and initiatives. However, the H&M Foundation identified a gap in support for innovations at idea stage, which are often seen as too risky for traditional investors and businesses. As a philanthropic organisation, H&M Foundation is more tolerant to risk and can fund and support these high-potential changemakers before they’re ready for commercial backing.
In a departure from an open application system, GCA will now operate a nomination-based process, involving a variety of actors like industry experts, research institutes, brands, garment suppliers, innovators, and non-profits. This change aims to discover changemakers who might otherwise be overlooked and to broaden the impact of the GCA. 
In addition to financial support, winners will gain access to a powerful network of mentors, collaborators, and industry leaders to help bring their solutions to life. Together with long-term partners Accenture and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, H&M Foundation will invite the winners to participate in a yearlong Changemaker Programme. This programme is designed to elevate their innovations, while fostering personal growth and promoting a holistic mindset that avoids “carbon tunnel vision” and encourages solutions that benefit both people and the planet. 
The nomination process for the Global Change Award 2025 opens on 23 October 2024, with winners to be announced in April 2025.
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