CSR News: Mumbai’s First AC Study Centre for Underprivileged Students Launched in Colaba
Mumbai’s first first air-conditioned study centre inaugurated for underprivileged students in Colaba on 7 April 2025. The initiative is a collaborative effort of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and funded by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions, aims to help provide a nurturing atmosphere for students hailing from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
The centre is situated at Captain Prakash Pethe Marg, next to Budhwar Park’s main signal, and is expected to benefit hundreds of students living in nearby slum areas such as Shiv Shakti Nagar, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Nagar, Garib Janata Nagar, and Steel Godown.
The study centre can accommodate up to 30 students at a time and remains operational every day from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Equipped with benches for sitting and drinking water facilities, it provides an ideal peaceful and comfortable atmosphere for studying, especially during the hot summer months of Mumbai.
“The scheme was the brainchild of Speaker of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Rahul Narwekar. We intend to duplicate such centres across the city to benefit more such communities,” said Makarand Narwekar, the former Colaba corporator.
A Lifeline for Aspiring Students
The study centre has received positive reviews from students, who find it an oasis of relief for their providing a living environment. According to Aryan Gupta, who at 18 years of age was preparing for the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exam in commerce, “Studying for 4-5 hours at a stretch in this heat is not possible. This AC centre is a blessing.” Aryan wishes to prepare for Chartered Accountancy (CA) exams after passing his 12th grade this year, and feels this centre will highly assist him in achieving that.
The initiative sets sights on aspirants preparing for state service commission exams and other competitive examination civil service. The centre hopes to ameliorate their chances of success by providing an environment free from distraction. This is a project that reiterates the importance of working towards the closure of the educational divide and empowering underprivileged cohorts with opportunities to realise their academic potential.
This development is one of the various initiatives that BMC is undertaking through its CSR to mitigate some of the social issues in collaboration with corporates. Under the provisions of the Companies Act, it is a mandate for corporations to spend 2% of their net profits for the purpose of social and environmental causes. The CSR Cell in BMC has promoted these partnerships, leading to the successful realisation of impactful projects like this study centre.
As an air-conditioned learning centre for the unprivileged in Mumbai, the Colaba centre has set a footprint for similar upcoming activities in urban educational reform. It is a progression toward establishing an equitable learning environment where every student, irrespective of socio-economic status, can aspire to defend their dreams.
Heatwave alert issued for Delhi, Scorching heat in North and Central India
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning in Delhi-NCR for the next two days. The IMD also warned that the temperature across northern and central states – including Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat including the national capital Delhi can reach up to 40 degree Celsius.
“We have issued a heatwave warning in Delhi-NCR for the next two days. On 11th April, there is a probability of light rainfall. We have issued a red alert for heatwave in Rajasthan. The temperatures during the day and night will be extremely high. The situation will improve after 48 hours. There will be light rainfall in the Himalayas for the next 4-5 days, ” IMD Scientist Dr Naresh Kumar told news agency ANI on Tuesday.
Barmer, Rajasthan touches 45.6 degrees
However, not just Delhi, Gujrat, Rajasthan, Haryana Chandigarh and Punjab will also experience heatwave conditions in the coming 4-5 days. Rajasthan is expected to experience severe heatwave conditions in several parts of the state till April 9. On Monday, the highest maximum temperature was recorded in Barmer at 45.6 degrees.
Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh will not only have heatwave conditions during the day but will also experience warm nights till April 10. Hot and humid weather conditions are expected in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Goa and Kerala as well.
What is heatwave?
According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), “A heatwave can be defined as a period where local excess heat accumulates over a sequence of unusually hot days and nights. Heatwaves consist of period of abnormally hot weather that can last from a few days to months where the maximum and minimum temperatures are unusually high to a location. The minimum temperature is as important as the maximum temperature, as cooler nights allow the body to recover and if the nights are unusually hot, higher temperatures will be reached earlier in the day and last for longer.”
How to stay safe in heatwave?
Avoid venturing outdoors especially during the afternoon when the temperature is the highest
Stay hydrated, drink a lot of water at regular intervals
If you are feeling tired while being outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, rest in the shade
While venturing out, use sunscreen lotion, try to stay in the shade and cover your head with a hat or umbrella for protection.
If you are stepping outdoors, carry a water bottle and hand towel.
During a heatwave, wear light and loose clothes especially those made of cotton because it helps reduce heat rashes and absorbs sweating. Similarly, use cotton bed sheets at home.
Provide shade and water to stray animals, they are helpless
पकड़ा गया दमोह का फर्जी लंदन रिटर्न डॉक्टर, सात मौतों का ज़िम्मेदार
Damoh के Mission Hospital में हुई 7 मौतों के आरोपी लंदन रिटर्न डॉक्टर नरेंद्र यादव को पुलिस ने प्रयागराज से पकड़ लिया है। अब उससे पूछताछ की जा रही है, जिसमें उसकी करतूतें खुल कर सामने आ रही है। चौंकाने वाली बात तो ये है कि इसी डॉक्टर ने साल 2006 में छत्तीसगढ़ के पूर्व विधानसभा अध्यक्ष राजेंद्र प्रसाद शुक्ल का भी ऑपरेशन किया था, जिसके बाद उनकी मौत हो गई थी।
Damoh का Doctor Death
Damoh के Mission Hospital में पदस्थापित रहे कथित तौर पर लंदन रिटर्न Doctor Narendra Yadav की करतूतें धीरे-धीरे ही सही, सामने आ रही हैं। राहत की बात ये है कि Damoh पुलिस की टीम ने आरोपी Dictor नरेंद्र यादव को Prayagraj से हिरासत में ले लिया है और उससे पूछताछ की जा रही है। YAdav की गिरफ़्तारी के बाद अब ये बात भी सामने आ रही है, कि इसी डॉक्टर ने साल 2006 में छत्तीसगढ़ के पूर्व विधानसभा अध्यक्ष राजेंद्र प्रसाद शुक्ल की सर्जरी भी की थी, जिसमें उनकी मौत हो गई थी। अब उनके बेटे हाईकोर्ट के सेवानिवृत्त जस्टिस अनिल शुक्ला ने पूरे मामले की न्यायिक जांच कराने की मांग की है। दूसरी तरफ राष्ट्रीय मानवाधिकार आयोग ने भी इस मामले पर रिपोर्ट मांगी है।
Damoh: ज़िंदगी देने वाले ने दी मौत
दरअसल Damoh में एक नामी अस्पताल है- नाम है Mission Hospital! यहां बीते दिनों लंदन के नामी कार्डियोलॉजिस्ट ‘Dr N John Ken’ के नाम पर 15 मरीजों के ऑपरेशन किए गए। लेकिन असल में ऑपरेशन कर रहा था एक फर्ज़ी डॉक्टर – डॉ. नरेंद्र यादव, उर्फ Narendra John Ken। उसने कुछ दिनों के अंतराल में ये सारे ऑपरेशन किए। आरोप है कि इसमें से 7 मरीजों की मौत हो गई, जिसमें से दो मरीजों की मौत की तो पुष्टि भी हो चुकी है। दूसरे शब्दों में कहें तो जिस अस्पताल में मरीजों को ज़िंदगी मिलनी थी, वहां कथित तौर पर मौत की Practice हो रही थी। Damoh के इसी अस्पताल में आरोपी Doctor ने बीते 15 जनवरी को रहिसा बेगम का ऑपरेशन किया था। Damoh की रहीसा बेगम को 12 जनवरी को सीने में दर्द होने के कारण पहले उन्हें जिला अस्पताल में भर्ती कराया गया। इसके बाद उन्हें उनके परिजन मिशन अस्पताल ले आए। अस्पताल ने उनसे जांच के नाम पर 50 हजार रुपये लिए और बताया कि रहिसा के दो नसों में 90 प्रतिशत ब्लॉकेज है, लिहाजा ऑपरेशन करना होगा। 15 जनवरी को ऑपरेशन हुआ, जिसके बाद उनकी मौत हो गई। रहिसा के बेटे नबी कुरैशी बताते हैं कि जब हम डॉक्टर से इलाज के बारे में पूछने गए तो वो भाग गया। इसी तरह का वाक़या 4 फरवरी को मंगल सिंह के साथ हुआ। Damoh में पटेरा ब्लॉक के रहने वाले मंगल सिंह को 4 फरवरी को Acidity की तकलीफ हुई थी। उनका बेटा उन्हें मिशन अस्पताल लेकर आया। वहां एंजियोग्राफी करने के बाद बताया गया कि हार्ट का ऑपरेशन करना होगा। परिजनों की सहमति पर ऑपरेशन हुआ और मंगल सिंह की मौत हो गई। दिवंगत मंगल सिंह के बेटे जितेन्द्र सिंह के मुताबिक उनसे इंजेक्शन मंगवाया गया था लेकिन वो लगाया ही नहीं गया। जब उन्होंने मौत की वजह जानने के लिए पोस्टमॉर्टम की बात उठाई तो डॉक्टरों ने कहा कि ऑपरेशन हो गया है, क्यों शरीर की चीरफाड़ करा रहे हो? शव ले जाओ। इसी तरह से बुधा अहिरवाल, इस्राइल खान और दसोंदा रैकवार जैसे 15 मरीजों का ऑपरेशन किया गया जिसमें से 7 की मौत संदिग्ध हालत में हो गई।
फर्जी डॉक्टर का विवादों से पुराना नाता
कुल मिलाकर इस कथित डॉक्टर ने सिर्फ इलाज नहीं किया, बल्कि एक के बाद एक आम लोगों के शरीरों पर Practice की। 15 दिल के मरीजों की सर्जरी की, जिनमें 7 की मौत हो गई। इनके परिवार वाले इलाज की फाइल मांगते रहे लेकिन अस्पताल ने उन्हें कोई Case File नहीं दी। Damoh जिले में भी स्वास्थ्य महकमे को चलाने वालों को इसकी शिकायत मिली 20 फरवरी को, लेकिन नोटिस भेजा गया पूरे 40 दिन बाद! अब जब इस नकली डॉक्टर का राज खुल चुका हा, अस्पताल ज़िम्मेदारियों का ठीकरा प्लेसमेंट एजेंसी पर फोड़ रहे हैं। अस्पताल प्रशासन का कहना है कि आरोपी ने उनके यहां भी चोरी की है। छानबीन हुई तो पता चला कि आरोपी Doctor का आधार कार्ड पर नाम है- नरेंद्र विक्रमादित्य यादव, और वो देहरादून का रहने वाला है। डिग्रियों के नाम पर उसके पास एक MBBS की डिग्री आंध्र प्रदेश से है। उसके बाद तीन MD और Cardiology की डिग्रियां – बिना किसी रजिस्ट्रेशन नंबर के हैं।
बताया गया कि उसने कलकत्ता, दार्जिलिंग और UK से कथित तौर पर डिग्रियां ली हैं। बहरहाल इतने लोगों की मौत के बाद, CMHO कोतवाली पहुंचे और अब जाकर आरोपी डॉक्टर के खिलाफ मामला दर्ज हुआ है। ये पहला मामला नहीं है, जब डॉक्टर नरेंद्र यादव विवादों में घिरा हो। साल 2006 में बिलासपुर के बड़े निजी अस्पताल में भी ऐसी ही घटना हुई थी। उस वक्त छत्तीसगढ़ के पूर्व विधानसभा अध्यक्ष राजेंद्र प्रसाद शुक्ल की सर्जरी करते समय उनकी मौत हो गई थी। परिजनों का आरोप है कि उस ऑपरेशन को भी नरेंद्र ने ही अंजाम दिया था। इस मामले में अपोलो बिलासपुर के जनसंपर्क अधिकारी देवेश गोपाल का कहना है कि काफी पुरानी बात है, 18-19 साल पुराने दस्तावेज चेक करने के बाद ही वे कुछ बता पाएंगे। उस वक्त क्या हुआ था ये डॉक्यूमेंट्स देखने के बाद ही पता चलेगा।
अब सवाल ये नहीं है कि डॉक्टर फर्ज़ी था, सवाल ये है कि उसे फर्ज़ी इलाज करने की छूट किसने दी? वो लोग जो भरोसे के पहरेदार थे, या वो, जिन्हे धरती पर ज़िंदगी के फरिश्तों का दर्ज़ा दिया गया है? और आज जब कई लोगों की मौत हमारे सामने है, तो क्या कोई सिस्टम ज़िम्मेदारी लेगा? या फिर ये कहानी भी अकाल मौत की गोद में समाए लोगों के न्याय के इंतज़ार में फाइलों में बंद हो जाएगी?
CSR Partnership with Computer Shiksha to Transform Education in Punjab
Punjab, India: In a significant step toward digital empowerment, Centrient Pharmaceuticals India Pvt. Ltd. has partnered with Computer Shiksha, a nonprofit organization, to provide free computer literacy to underserved students in Punjab. This initiative aimed to equip 25,000 students across 100 schools with essential digital skills, fostering education and future career opportunities.
With schools in underserved communities often lacking access to computer labs, trained teachers, and digital learning resources, this collaboration is bridging the digital divide. Under the program, 30,777 students in 100 schools have already begun their digital literacy journey, surpassing the initial target of 25,000 students. The project was completed successfully with around 10% of the total students from the aspirational district of Ferozepur alone. Some of schools participating in this initiative include Govt Adarsh Secondary School, Kot Dhandal, Gurdaspur; GSSS, Mallan Wala, Ferozepur; Govt Senior Secondary School, Haibowal Khurd, Ludhiana; and Govt Senior Secondary Smart School, Model Town, Patiala.
Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Devvesh Srivastav, Country President, Global HR Director–Tech OP & Regional HR Head– APAC said, “At Centrient, we believe in making a meaningful impact beyond healthcare by supporting initiatives that empower communities. Through this partnership with Computer Shiksha, we aim to enhance digital literacy and provide students with the foundational skills needed for the modern world. Education is a key driver of progress, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative journey.”
Computer Shiksha, an 80G and 12A-certified non-profit organization, has been dedicated to providing free foundational computer literacy to schools that lack the infrastructure and resources for digital education. The initiative ensures that students gain hands-on experience with computers and practical knowledge to help them in academics and beyond.
Dr. Rakesh Suri, Founder President of Computer Shiksha expressed his gratitude for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership with Centrient Pharmaceuticals is a game-changer for thousands of students who previously had no access to digital education. By bringing structured and engaging computer literacy programs to these schools, we are preparing young minds for a future where digital competency is essential. We are thankful to Centrient for their support in making this vision a reality.”
The impact of this initiative extends beyond the classroom, as students develop essential computer skills that enhance their learning capabilities and future employability. By addressing the lack of digital education resources in these schools, the partnership between Centrient Pharmaceuticals and Computer Shiksha is paving the way for a more inclusive and digitally empowered society.
As the initiative progresses, the goal remains to expand reach, ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to acquire vital digital skills. With an ambitious target of transforming 100 schools, the program is set to make a lasting difference in Punjab’s educational landscape.
Disclaimer: This media release is auto-generated. The CSR Journal is not responsible for the content.
MMRDA Allocates Plot C-82 to NSE for Expansion in BKC
MMRDA, the Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) led by Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Sanajay Mukherjee has granted approval for the allotment of Plot No C-82 in the ‘G’ Block of Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE).
MMRDA Authority meeting
The approval aligns with the vision of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The decision aligns with the provisions outlined in Regulation No. 16 of MMRDA’s Land Disposal Regulations, 1977. This resolution was approved during the 159th Meeting of the MMRDA Authority.
In response to NSE’s request dated October 11, 2024, for an additional plot with a built-up area potential of approximately 4 to 5 lakh square feet, MMRDA considered the significance of the financial institution. Previously, in 1993, MMRDA had allotted Plot No. C-1 in ‘G’ Block (16,038.3 sq. mt. with a built-up area of 31,044.05 sq. mt.) for NSE’s headquarters, Exchange Plaza, by relaxing certain provisions of MMRDA’s Land Disposal Regulations, 1977.
Details of the Newly Allotted Plot
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Plot Number: C-82
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Plot Area: 5,500 sq. mt.
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Permissible FSI: 4.00
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Permissible Height as per CAA NOC (18/09/2018): 69.52 meters
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Built-Up Area: 22,000 sq. mt.
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Lease Period: 80 years
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Usage: New Administrative Building for NSE (Commercial)
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Lease Premium: ₹757.90 Crore
The allotted plot has the potential to accommodate additional built-up area beyond the 4.00 FSI limit. As per the Government of Maharashtra’s notification dated July 19, 2024, NSE may avail of additional built-up area by paying the requisite premium to MMRDA.
Official letter to NSE
Deputy Chief Minister, Urban Development Minister, and Chairman of MMRDA approved the Commissioner’s proposal for the allotment of Plot No. C-82, subject to post facto approval from the Authority. Following this approval, MMRDA issued an official offer letter to NSE on March 7, 2025.
Subsequently The allocation of this additional space will enhance NSE’s operational efficiency and contribute to the commercial development of BKC. By facilitating the establishment of a new administrative building, this move reinforces BKC’s standing as a premier financial and commercial hub.
CM Devendra Fadnavis’ statement
While commenting on the policy, Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, said: “This decision reflects Maharashtra’s commitment to fostering financial growth and infrastructure development. By enabling NSE to expand its footprint in Bandra-Kurla Complex, we are reinforcing Mumbai’s position as the financial capital of India and ensuring a conducive business environment for key institutions.”
Dy CM Eknath Shinde’s statement
Eknath Shinde, Dy. Chief Minister of Maharashtra & Chairman, MMRDA, stated: The allotment of Plot C-82 to NSE is part of MMRDA’s efforts to strengthen BKC as a key financial hub. This step will boost commercial growth, support NSE’s expansion, and contribute to Mumbai’s economic development.”
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, said: “MMRDA is focused on developing Mumbai’s commercial infrastructure. The allotment of Plot C-82 to NSE will support the exchange’s expansion and strengthen BKC as a top business district.”
Punjab Police Arrest Two in Grenade Attack on BJP Leader Manoranjan Kalia’s Residence
Punjab Police made two arrests that included a Pakistan-based gangster following the grenade attack on BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia’s Jalandhar house. Early on Tuesday morning, the blast occurred outside Kalia’s house, leading to destruction in that area. The explosion damaged windows, an SUV, and a motorcycle, but the former Punjab minister within the premises escaped without injury.
Police Disclose the Situation
Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla disclosed during the police investigation that Pakistan’s ISI and Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) carried out a substantial conspiracy together. Zeeshan Akhtar who works with Lawrence Bishnoi and the Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti served as the main attackers according to Shukla. Police investigators discovered the e-rickshaw through which the criminal activity was performed.
Kalia fell asleep shortly before the explosion and first thought the noise was thunder. After the explosion, he became aware that an explosive device had been launched against his home. The bomb attack damaged numerous areas of the property together with its glass windows and vehicles located in the courtyard. Kalia expressed satisfaction with the investigation process while asking authorities to check if the arrested individuals also participated in state-wide attacks.
Recently, Punjab has been Facing Many Grenade Attacks
Punjab has faced grenade attacks throughout the few previous months. At least 16 grenade attacks have targeted different sites in Punjab starting from mid-October 2024 including police stations, civilian houses, religious institutions, and political leaders. The recent grenade attacks have established serious doubts about the deteriorating law and order in the area.
Reacting to the blast, Kalia blamed the Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government for the growing security concerns in the state. He expressed his belief that the government was failing in its duty to ensure peace, especially in the face of potential cross-border threats from Pakistan. The BJP, too, condemned the attack, accusing the state government of neglecting its responsibilities in maintaining law and order.
‘Climate Incubation Hub’ launched to accelerate climate-positive innovations
Bengaluru, India: Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) in collaboration with Nadathur S Raghavan Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning (NSRCEL), the startup hub at IIM Bangalore, has launched the Climate Incubation Hub. It is a collaborative programme between industry and academia to nurture Indian Startups to advance climate-innovations in India. The ‘Climate Incubation Hub’ aims to foster scalable solutions that address critical climate challenges, enabling startups to create transformational and sustainable environmental impact.
The Climate Incubation Hub will primarily focus on startups working in key environmental areas such as climate, nature and plastics circularity. This will include regenerative and climate-smart agriculture, waste to value technologies to reduce emissions, alternative energy and clean technology, bioenergy & biomass solutions, and more.
BP Biddappa, Executive Director and Chief People, Transformation and Sustainability Officer at HUL said, “At HUL, we firmly believe that what is good for India is good for HUL. The Climate Incubation Hub aims to merge industry expertise with academic rigor to foster groundbreaking innovations across key sustainability areas. Our collaboration with IIM-B’s NSRCEL to scale innovative solutions addressing the urgent effects of climate change is a testament to our commitment to sustainability, while also contributing to India’s long-term vision of Viksit Bharat”.
Anand Sri Ganesh, CEO of NSRCEL, said, “At NSRCEL, we are deeply committed to supporting startups that prioritize sustainability, and we are excited to partner with HUL in this transformative journey. This collaboration enhances our ability to identify and nurture climate innovators, and we are excited to work together in accelerating impactful solutions. Through this initiative, we aim to create a dynamic network of startups dedicated to addressing climate challenges and driving the widespread adoption of sustainable practices.”
The Climate Incubation Hub offers a comprehensive support structure to help startups scale their sustainable solutions. Participants gain tailored mentorship from IIM faculty and industry leaders. A key focus of the program is ensuring startups achieve a strong product-market fit. Founders receive focused support to validate and refine their products, ensuring they meet market needs and are positioned for long-term success. Additionally, the program offers a grant opportunity to up to 15 start-ups to help them scale their solutions. The program emphasizes on building robust governance frameworks and developing sustainable business models to ensure long-term scalability and impact. Startups will also participate in industry networking events to present their innovations to potential investors and key stakeholders. This critical opportunity allows ventures to gain visibility, secure funding, and further their mission of driving sustainable change.
The Climate Incubation Hub is designed for Indian startups that are at least one year old, have early revenues, and a customer base.
This initiative is a step toward transforming the entrepreneurial landscape and positioning India as a hub for climate-positive solutions that will drive lasting environmental change.