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May 9, 2025
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CSR News: Launch of training programme to prepare rural youth around Ambujanagar for Armed Forces

By
The CSR Journal
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Ambuja Cement

Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, has launched a training initiative in Ambujanagar to equip rural youth for careers in the Armed Forces, Paramilitary, and Gujarat Police.

The programme, inaugurated by District SP, Mr. Manoharsinh Jadeja, IPS, aims to provide structured coaching to aspirants from five villages around the Rampara Mines, opening new avenues for employment in national services.

With close to 100 registrations received, the programme has commenced since April 1, 2025, in the village itself, offering specialised training and guidance to aspirants. In addition, a women’s empowerment event was held in the mining village of Kodidara, attended by 1,000 women from various local self-help groups (SHGs), reinforcing Ambuja Cements’ commitment to holistic community development.

By enabling skill-based training and career opportunities, Ambuja Cements, through its CSR arm, continues to empower rural youth, enhance employability, and contribute to nation-building through structured academic and skilling interventions.

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

Kailash Satyarthi Highlights India’s Tradition of Philanthropy

By
Hency Thacker
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At Global Justice, Love, and Peace Summit, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi talked on India’s tradition of philanthropy

At the Global Justice, Love, and Peace Summit in Dubai on 13 April 2025, Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi reflected on India’s enduring tradition of philanthropy. Speaking to an audience of global leaders, activists, and corporate figures, Satyarthi emphasised the growing need for compassion and action in a world marked by inequality and conflict. His speech underscored how philanthropy, deeply rooted in Indian culture, continues to play a pivotal role in addressing societal challenges.

Satyarthi highlighted the historical legacy of Indian philanthropy, citing examples of corporate leaders such as the Tatas, Bajajs, and Godrejs, who have long championed social welfare initiatives. He acknowledged their contributions as part of India’s heritage of giving but cautioned against complacency. “Intent alone is not enough,” he remarked. “If we keep talking about these things without putting them into practice, we end up spending a lot of energy, way more than what we get back in return.” His call to action resonated with the summit’s theme of integrating love, justice, and peace into global efforts for change.

The Nobel Laureate also praised the summit’s symbolic naming, noting that it encapsulated values essential for fostering harmony and progress. He expressed hope that participants would carry forward the message of compassion and collaboration to create a more equitable world. Satyarthi’s remarks served as both a celebration of India’s philanthropic spirit and a reminder of the work still needed to translate noble intentions into impactful actions.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Satyarthi’s reflections also spotlighted the evolving role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in India. Over recent decades, Indian corporations have increasingly embraced CSR as a means to contribute to societal development. Organisations like the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation (KSCF) have partnered with businesses to channel CSR funds towards initiatives aimed at eradicating child labour, trafficking, and other forms of exploitation.

The KSCF has worked closely with corporate leaders to implement sustainable community projects and sponsor child-friendly villages across India. By leveraging CSR funds effectively, these collaborations have empowered underprivileged children through education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. For instance, companies supporting KSCF have helped establish Bal Mitra Grams (Child-Friendly Villages), which serve as models for holistic child development.

Satyarthi’s advocacy extends beyond financial contributions; he emphasises ethical practices and long-term commitments from corporations. His vision aligns with global efforts to integrate social responsibility into business strategies, ensuring that economic growth benefits all sections of society. As he noted during the summit, “Philanthropy must be transformative rather than transactional.”

India’s corporate sector has responded positively to this call for action. Leading companies have not only increased their CSR budgets but also aligned their initiatives with broader goals such as those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This alignment has amplified the impact of philanthropic efforts, addressing systemic issues like poverty and inequality while fostering sustainable development.

In conclusion, Kailash Satyarthi’s reflections at the Dubai summit highlighted both the rich tradition of Indian philanthropy and the critical role of corporate leaders in driving meaningful change. His message serves as a powerful reminder that while intent is important, it is action that ultimately transforms lives. By building on this legacy and embracing innovative approaches to giving, India can continue to lead by example in creating a more compassionate and equitable world.

Top CSR projects in Bhubaneswar

By
The CSR Journal
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Top CSR projects in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, located in Khordha district of Odisha is the state capital and the second most popular tourist destination after Puri, which is a major hub of religious tourism due to the age old Shree Jagannatha Temple. Bhubaneswar popularly known as the city of temples boasts of tourist attractions like the Lingaraj Temple, Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves, Nandankanan zoo, Rajarani Temple, Shree Mukteswara Temple and Dhauli Shanti Stupa among others. The Adivasi Mela, which is hosted around January-February every year, offers glimpses into Odisha’s tribal lifestyle and culture.

Bhubaneswar enjoys Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) benefits mainly from PSUs operating in Odisha. In FY 2022-23, Khordha district received Rs 62.43 crore CSR funds from 132 companies. The top three spenders include Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Indusind Bank Limited, and Infosys BPM Limited that spent Rs 12.1 crore, Rs 7.03 crore, and Rs 6.15 crore respectively. Let’s look at some of the top CSR initiatives in Bhubaneswar.

CSR of Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd to skill train youth

Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) one of the major coal producing companies of India and one of the eight subsidiaries of Coal India Limited signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with CIPET, Bhubaneswar for skill training development projects in September, 2023.

Under these projects, 1000 youths from Odisha will be provided skill training in machine operator courses while 40 youths will be trained under ITI courses. All the courses are residential which will be provided at skill training institutes of CIPET, Bhubaneswar. Mahanadi Coalfields Limited will be providing Rs.11.70 crores to these projects under its CSR initiative project ‘Kovida-2’.This is one of the many developmental projects which is being undertaken by MCL to generate sustainable livelihood for the youths in Odisha.

CSR of NALCO at AIIMS Bhubaneswar

In February this year, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated additional facilities – a Dharmasala, a new Trauma Centre, and a High Energy Linear Accelerator (HELA) Machine virtually at AIIMS Bhubaneswar in Odisha. Constructed with generous Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding from National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a CPSE, the three-story Dharmasala building boasts a capacity of 492 beds distributed across 159 rooms. It features distinct male and female blocks, each equipped with dining facilities. The accommodation is affordable, providing patients and their attendants with a unique and unprecedented lodging option within the state and among the recently established AIIMS facilities.

CSR of Bharat Electronics Ltd for school students

Indian Government-owned aerospace and defence electronics company Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) established 28 Smart Classrooms at Sainik School, Bhubaneswar, at a cost of Rs. 65 Lakh in December, 2023. BEL has installed 75″ Touchscreen Smart Panels to convert conventional classrooms to Smart Classrooms. The Smart Panels are pre-loaded with digital educational content as per CBSE Syllabus and cover all subjects.

The Smart Panels modernise the method of rendering education through integrated learning technologies, illustrative content & visual demonstrations to explain concepts, thus ensuring active participation of students, encouraging their curiosity and creativity within the everyday learning environment and making learning fun and interactive.

As a corporate entity, BEL’s CSR activities are aimed at inclusive growth, holistic community development and empowerment of marginalised and underprivileged sections in and around its areas of operation.

CSR of ICICI Foundation at IIT Bhubaneswar

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar, in association with ICICI Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of ICICI Bank undertook tree plantation using the Miyawaki Method in its campus on 6th January 2024. The programme was jointly coordinated by the Horticulture Department and CSR Wing of IIT Bhubaneswar.

Miyawaki is a technique pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki that helps build dense, native forests in a limited space and short time. This distinctive technique plants saplings of different native species to grow plants, resembling the natural forests. Using this tropical restoration method, around 12000 saplings featuring 38 native plant species were planted inside the premises of the campus of IIT Bhubaneswar.

The IIT Bhubaneswar campus, situated at the foot of the historic Barunei hillock, maintains outstanding landscapes. It spans about 4 km2 and is home to more than 50,000 evergreen and deciduous flower and fruit trees, including Bauhinia, Coconut, Guava, Mango, Jamun, Papaya, Grapefruit and Foxtail Palm.

हरियाणा के रामपाल कश्यप, जिन्हें PM मोदी ने खुद पहनाए जूते

By
Anju Singh
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PM Modi Meets Rampal Kashyap
PM Modi Meets Rampal Kashyap
Chandigarh: PM Modi के यूं तो लाखों-करोड़ों की संख्या में प्रशंसक और समर्थक हैं, लेकिन हरियाणा के दौरे में उनकी मुलाकात कैथल के Rampal Kashyap से हुई। PM Modi के सामने जब रामपाल कश्यप पहुंचे तो पीएम मोदी ने कहा कि, ‘अरे भाई, आपने ऐसा क्यों किया? क्यों अपने आप को कष्ट देते हो?’ दरसअल, कैथल के रामपाल कश्यप ने 14 साल पहले एक व्रत लिया था कि जब तक नरेंद्र मोदी प्रधानमंत्री नहीं बनेंगे और मैं उनसे नहीं मिलूंगा, तब तक मैं जूते नहीं पहनूंगा। नरेंद्र मोदी 2014 में PM बन गए, Rampal Kashyap की मुराद पूरी हो गई, लेकिन मिलना बाकी रहा। इसके बाद रामपाल कश्यप अपने संकल्प पर अड़े रहे।
PM Meets Rampal Kashyap: प्रधानमंत्री नरेंद्र मोदी ने सोमवार को संविधान निर्माता डॉ. भीम राव आंबेडकर जयंती Ambedkar Jayanti पर हरियाणा के हिसार में राज्य के पहले एयरपोर्ट यानी महाराजा अग्रसेन हवाई अड्डे से अयोध्या के लिए पहली वाणिज्यिक उड़ान को हरी झंडी दिखाई। इसके बाद उन्होंने इसी हवाई अड्डे पर एक नए टर्मिनल भवन की आधारशिला रखी। इस मौके पर पीएम ने अपने संबोधन में कहा कि आज हरियाणा से अयोध्या धाम के लिए फ्लाइट शुरू हुई है। अब श्रीकृष्ण जी की पावन भूमि हरियाणा, श्रीराम जी की भूमि से सीधे जुड़ गई है। इस जनसभा में उन्होंने कांग्रेस पर तीखा हमला करते हुए आरोप लगाया कि कांग्रेस आंबेडकर द्वारा बनाए गए संविधान को नष्ट करने वाली पार्टी बन गई है। उन्होंने कहा कि सत्ता में रहने के दौरान कांग्रेस ने अनुसूचित जातियों (SC), अनुसूचित जनजातियों (ST) और अन्य पिछड़ा वर्गों (OBC) को ‘दूसरे दर्जे का नागरिक’ बना दिया था। इसके बाद प्रधानमंत्री यमुना नगर पहुंचे, जहां उन्होंने रामपाल कश्यप नाम के एक शख्स को जूता पहनाकर सम्मानित किया।

14 साल बाद पूरी हुई मन्नत रामपाल कश्यप की

PM Meets Rampal Kashyap: रामपाल कश्यप हरियाणा के ही कैथल जिले खेड़ी गुलाम अली गांव के निवासी हैं। वे BJP के शक्ति केंद्र प्रमुख हैं और मण्डल अध्यक्ष भी रह चुके हैं। उन्होंने 14 साल पहले कसम खाई थी कि जब तक नरेंद्र Modi देश के प्रधानमंत्री नहीं बन जाते, और जब तक कश्यप खुद पीएम मोदी से नहीं मिल लेते, तब तक जूते नहीं पहनेंगे। आज प्रधानमंत्री मोदी ने उनसे मुलाकात की और उन्हें अपने हाथों से जूते पहनाए। इस प्रतिज्ञा के 14 साल बाद आज वही दिन था जब Rampal Kashyap PM Modi से मिले। जब वह पीएम मोदी से मिलने आए तब भी वे नंगे पांव ही आए। दिलचस्प बात यह है कि ठंड से लेकर गर्मी, यहां तक कि बारिश के मौसम में भी वह नंगे पांव ही चल रहे थे। इसके बाद भी वह अपने संकल्प पर अड़े रहे। आखिरकार 14 साल बाद उनका संकल्प पूरा हुआ। हालांकि, जब रामपाल को पीएम मोदी जूते पहना रहे थे, तब उन्होंने उनसे कहा कि भविष्य में कभी इस तरह का प्रण मत करना।”

PM Meets Rampal Kashyap: प्रधानमंत्री मोदी ने ख़ुद ट्वीट कर इसके बारे में जानकारी दी है। उन्होंने लिखा, “यमुनानगर में आज की जनसभा में कैथल के श्री रामपाल कश्यप जी से मेरी मुलाकात हुई। उन्होंने 14 साल पहले एक शपथ ली थी कि वे मेरे प्रधानमंत्री बनने और मुझसे मिलने के बाद ही जूते पहनेंगे। मैं रामपाल जी जैसे लोगों के प्रति नतमस्तक हूं और उनके स्नेह को भी स्वीकार करता हूं, लेकिन मैं ऐसे सभी लोगों से अनुरोध करना चाहता हूं, जो ऐसी शपथ लेते हैं – मैं आपके प्यार की कद्र करता हूं। कृपया किसी ऐसे काम पर ध्यान दें जो सामाजिक कार्य और राष्ट्र निर्माण से जुड़ा हो!”

कांग्रेस पर खूब बरसे PM Modi

PM Meets Rampal Kashyap: पीएम मोदी ने आरोप लगाया कि जब भी कांग्रेस की सरकार को खतरा हुआ, उसने संविधान को ‘कुचल दिया।’ उन्होंने अपने दावे की पुष्टि के लिए 1975-77 के आपातकाल का हवाला दिया। उन्होंने कहा, ‘‘संविधान की भावना समान नागरिक संहिता की है, जिसे मैं धर्मनिरपेक्ष नागरिक संहिता कहता हूं। लेकिन कांग्रेस ने इसे कभी लागू नहीं किया।” प्रधानमंत्री Modi ने ये भी कहा कि अगर कांग्रेस को वास्तव में मुसलमानों से हमदर्दी है तो उसे किसी मुसलमान को अपना अध्यक्ष बनाना चाहिए और चुनाव में समुदाय के लोगों को 50 प्रतिशत टिकट देने चाहिए। उन्होंने विपक्षी पार्टी पर तुष्टिकरण की नीति अपनाने का भी आरोप लगाया। प्रधानमंत्री ने यह भी कहा कि बाबा साहेब भीमराव आंबेडकर ने कहा था कि धर्म के आधार पर आरक्षण नहीं होना चाहिए और संविधान भी इसका निषेध करता है, लेकिन कर्नाटक की कांग्रेस सरकार ने अनुसूचित जातियों, अनुसूचित जनजातियों और अन्य पिछड़ा वर्गों के अधिकारों को छीनकर धर्म के आधार पर निविदाओं में आरक्षण दिया। PM Modi ने आरोप लगाया कि कांग्रेस ने तुष्टिकरण की नीति अपनाई, जिससे मुसलमानों में से केवल कुछ ‘कट्टरपंथी’ ही ‘खुश’ हुए, जबकि बाकी समुदाय उपेक्षित, अशिक्षित और गरीब बना रहा। PM Modi ने कहा कि कांग्रेस की इस नीति का सबसे बड़ा सबूत 2014 के आम चुनावों से ठीक पहले Waqf कानून में किए गए संशोधन हैं। मोदी ने कहा, ‘‘आजादी से लेकर 2013 तक Waqf कानून था। लेकिन चुनाव जीतने और तुष्टिकरण तथा वोट बैंक की राजनीति के लिए कांग्रेस ने 2013 के आखिर में जल्दबाजी में वक्फ कानून में संशोधन कर दिया ताकि उसे (कुछ महीने बाद 2014 में) चुनावों में वोट मिल सके।’’मोदी ने कहा कि कांग्रेस द्वारा किए गए बदलाव ‘बाबासाहेब का सबसे बड़ा अपमान’ है क्योंकि उन्होंने आंबेडकर द्वारा बनाए गए संविधान का उल्लंघन किया।

West Bengal: Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation to conduct Biodiversity Survey

By
Ujjal Roy
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West Bengal’s Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation has decided to conduct a biodiversity survey along its area to get an idea about its present scenario of animals as well as plants in this municipal area.

Why this survey

According to Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation officials, every year cyclone hits Kolkata, Bidhannagar and its adjacent areas. Because of this cyclones not only plants but also animal habitat faces many challenges. A senior official said, “because of urbanisation also plants size of the area decreased. We want to assess the exact situation so that, we can take necessary action in future to save the nature.

How the survey will be held

A senior official of Environment department of Bidhannagar municipality said, “we will do this survey in the two parts. In first part, we will do area of old Salt-Lake areas and then we will do this survey in Rajarhat-gopalpur area which is later included with Salt Lake municipality.”

He further added, “we will count big plant as well as small plant in the whole area of Bidhannagar. Also we will assess the presence of inland plants. Then we will count number of birds, variety of birds as well as reptiles.”

He also said, “We will not do this job successfully on our own. So, to fulfil this successfully we will take help of some voluntary organisations as well as some specialised organisation. After the whole work we will make a total report about the biodiversity of Bidhannagar municipal area.”

What next

Earlier Kolkata municipal Corporation did similar survey and accordingly the started taking action to preserve extinct animals and plants. Here in Bidhannagar also, administration we are trying to map the biodiversity through this survey. We are assuming because of every year cyclone, number of trees decreased in this area which also caused decreased in number of birds. Some common birds like crow also decreased from earlier. After getting proper data we will take necessary action to increase the numbers of plants and animals.

Modern Firefighter Training Centre to Be Set Up in Kandivali

By
Akanksha Yadav
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A significant move towards enhancing the capabilities of the Mumbai Fire Brigade has been set up by the BMC. A modern training centre for firefighters will soon be established in Kandivali, Mumbai. The announcement was made by Dr. Amit Saini, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs).

The announcement was made during a solemn ceremony held on the occasion of National Fire Service Day. The ceremony was held at the Mumbai Fire Brigade Headquarters in Byculla, Mumbai.

Dr. Saini’s statement

BMC’s new facility aims to provide advanced, technology-driven training to firefighters. These training centres will equip them with modern firefighting techniques and self-protection skills. Dr. Saini emphasized that while the safety of citizens is the Mumbai Fire Brigade’s top priority.

He also stated that the safety of its own personnel is equally critical. “The new centre will help ensure that our firefighters are well-prepared to deal with a wide range of emergencies,” he said.

National Fire Service Day

Meanwhile, the commemorative event marked the 81st anniversary of the 1944 Bombay Dock Explosion. 66 firefighters lost their lives battling a massive blaze on the cargo ship SS Fort Stikine.

Paying tribute to these martyrs, dignitaries laid wreaths at the Veer Smriti Stambh (Martyrs’ Memorial). A recorded homage was played in memory of all firefighters who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

High-Rise Fires Calls for Advanced Training

Furthermore, Santosh Warik, Director of Maharashtra Fire Services, highlighted the growing challenges faced by Mumbai’s fire personnel. This includes high-rise fires, floods during monsoons, and structural collapses in congested areas. He further stressed the importance of providing diversified and up-to-date training to handle such situations effectively.

First-of-its-Kind Centre in the Country

Prashant Gaikwad, Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Finance), stated that the Kandivali training facility will be the first of its kind in India, offering a wide range of modern equipment and technology-based training systems. “The inclusion of cutting-edge tools in our firefighting arsenal is essential for faster response and greater efficiency,” he noted.

Fire Safety Week Launched

Meanwhile, the event also marked the beginning of Fire Safety Week. During this event awareness campaigns, community engagement activities, and safety demonstrations will be conducted across Mumbai. Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar delivered the opening remarks.

During the opening he provided an overview of the Fire Brigade’s initiatives and outreach programs.

Telangana Becomes First State to Implement SC Sub-Categorisation

By
Saniya Patel
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Telangana has only become the first Indian state to implement the Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservation) Act, 2025 which introduces sub-categorisation into the SC reservation quota. Through this legal framework, Telangana wants to achieve fair representation for its 59 Scheduled Caste communities.

The state government released a gazette on Monday to implement the Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservation) Act 2025 during Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary year. The Cabinet sub-committee delivered the first notification copy to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy who designated this move as a “historic tribute” to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision for equality.

SC Quota Split into Three Groups Based on Socio-Economic Disparities

The categorisation, based on recommendations from a commission led by retired High Court judge Justice Shameem Akther, divides the SC reservation of 15% into three groups. Group-I, identified as the most socially and economically marginalised, will receive 1% of the total quota. Group-II, consisting of moderately benefited communities, is allotted 9%, while the remaining 5% goes to Group-III, which includes relatively better-placed sub-castes.

The process of recruitment and admissions in Telangana will follow this new standard framework according to Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy who led the sub-committee. Future posts will stay unaffected though new recruitment announcements will step in line with this framework.

26 SC Sub-Castes Reclassified After Field Study

Of the 59 sub-castes, 33 have remained in the same category as before, while 26 have been reassigned following detailed analysis of their educational, economic, and social status. The reclassification is based on field data and extensive consultation with stakeholders.

The Supreme Court, in a judgment delivered in August 2024, had upheld the legality of SC and ST sub-categorisation, paving the way for states to act. Telangana is now the first to translate that ruling into action.

The government has also indicated that the reservation distribution could be revised post the 2026 census, depending on shifts in the SC population. Leaders have encouraged SC youth to make full use of this new opportunity.

CSR News: Har Gaon Roshan CSR project illuminates over 300 forest villages in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh 

By
The CSR Journal
-

Uttar Pradesh, India: Har Gaon Roshan CSR project aims to enhancing safety in forest regions affected by human-wildlife conflict using the power of light. Bahraich is recognized as one of India’s aspirational districts, with a focus on improving health, education, and infrastructure. The installation of energy-efficient lights has reduced human-wildlife conflict, allowing villagers to move freely and securely after dark, has also extended opportunities for livelihood activities and improved access to education, particularly for children studying in the evenings. By empowering communities with sustainable lighting solutions, this initiative has paved the way for a brighter future, where safety, opportunity, and progress shine brightly in the heart of rural Uttar Pradesh.

The project executed in partnership with FINISH Society encompasses the installation of over 5000 high-quality LED and solar streetlights across a vast network of 300 forest villages. The recent inauguration event was attended by Mr B. Shiv Shankar, Divisional Forest officer(DFO) of Katarniaghat Wildlife Division, Bahraich. In addition, a calendar featuring slogans on forest and wildlife conservation was also launched at this event.

Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Govt. Affairs & CSR – Signify, Greater India, shared his thoughts on this project, “At Signify, we believe in the transformative power of light to uplift lives. Through this initiative, we are creating safer and more secure environments in some of the most remote villages. This initiative reflects our dedication to leveraging lighting technology for social impact, and we are honoured to collaborate with the forest department and FINISH Society in supporting the recovery of these resilient communities.”

This collaborative effort has been carried out with active support from the Forest Department and the local communities, bringing together various stakeholders to realize a shared goal of rural empowerment through lighting.

 

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

CSR News: Six Social Ventures Secure Rs 57 Lakh of Support Funds at SBI Youth for India Conclave 2025 to Drive Positive Impact at Grassroots

By
The CSR Journal
-

Guwahati, Assam: SBI Foundation, the CSR arm of the State Bank of India, successfully hosted the SBI Youth for India (YFI) Conclave 2025 in Guwahati, bringing together social entrepreneurs, development sector experts, academicians, and SBI YFI Alumni to discuss scalable solutions for rural transformation. The Conclave was graced by Padmashri Ms. Bertha Dkhar, Executive Director, Bethany Society, Shillong. Mr. Sanjay Prakash, MD & CEO, SBI Foundation, Mr Jagannath Sahoo, President & COO, SBI Foundation and other distinguished dignitaries who shared valuable insights on youth-driven social innovation and rural development.

Over the years, motivated Fellows of SBI YFI have initiated transformative projects across thematic areas like education, alternate energy, women’s empowerment, traditional craft, environmental sustainability, rural livelihood, water, health, etc. This year’s YFI Conclave saw deliberations and impact stories of many such youth-led projects and enterprises that are driving impact at the grassroots.

A key highlight of the event was SBI YFI Sahyog – The Pitch Fest, where ten social enterprises presented their impact-driven ideas, competing for seed funding and mentorship. In a power-packed Shark Tank-like round, the winners of this year’s Pitch Fest were chosen by an esteemed panel of jury that included Anupam Joshi and Swapnil Sinha and will receive funding along with strategic mentorship from SBI Foundation and industry leaders. In the last 4 years, SBI YFI Sahyog has supported 24 social ventures with a total funding of ₹1.06 crore, enabling them to scale and sustain their initiatives. The details of the winners this year are:

S.no
Name of the Alumni
Full name of the venture
Description
Amount received (Rs)
1
Pratibha Krishnaiah and Anvi Mehta
Himalayan Blooms
Himalayan Blooms is a women-led, not-for-profit initiative based in Uttarakhand, empowering local women through crochet and knitting. By training rural artisans and
connecting them to wider markets, it creates sustainable livelihoods while preserving traditional craft. Each handcrafted product tells a story of resilience, skill, and nature.
11 Lakh
2
Ruchinilo Kemp
Kenono Foundation
The Kenono Foundation, based in Nagaland, India, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving forest biodiversity and supporting forest-dependent communities. Our holistic
approach includes funding conservation efforts through community-based enterprises, as well as fostering holistic rural livelihoods for sustainable development. By integrating environmental conservation with community empowerment, we aim to achieve sustainable development and preserve the natural landscapes of our region.
11 Lakh
3
Teja Sanjay
Ghorpade
Be-ecoliteracy Pollinator
Conservation And
Research Foundation
(BEPCoR)
BEPCoR (Be-Ecoliteracy Pollinator Conservation and Research Foundation) is a social enterprise committed to empowering rural and tribal women through sustainable beekeeping, pollinator conservation, and honey-based micro entrepreneurship. We set up decentralized honey processing units, deliver practical training on scientific beekeeping,
and facilitate market access for premium, traceable, and ethically sourced honey. Our
model not only boosts rural household incomes and fosters women-led enterprises, but also promotes biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture through community-based pollinator conservation efforts.
11 Lakh
4
Krishna Thiruvengadam Rajagopal
dVerse Technologies Pvt Ltd
dVerse is building an immersive edtech ecosystem for visually impaired students, combining bilingual bite-sized lessons with interactive tactile graphics. Powered by a
gamified AI tutor app and smart accessibility devices, CuriO makes STEM education engaging and inclusive. We’re closing the learning gap and empowering blind students to learn, explore, and thrive like never before
8 Lakh
5
T Sai Krishna
Fishy Farmers Pvt Ltd
Fishy Farmers Private Limited is a for-profit venture founded in 2018 to simplify and scale
sustainable aquaculture in India. Its patented Auto Pneumatic Bead Filter offers a zero maintenance,
energy-efficient solution that improves water quality and reduces mortality in fish farming. With over 70 lakh liters of installed capacity across India, the company supports farmers end-to-end through design, equipment, inputs, and technical services.
8 Lakh
6
Sachin Korla
UdyamWell
UdyamWell is a tech-enabled platform that serves as a one-stop solution for rural and grassroots enterprises, offering end-to-end support for market linkage, e-commerce
readiness, and business growth. By leveraging the ONDC network, UdyamWell enables these enterprises to access wider markets, build digital capabilities, and grow sustainably. The platform also provides personalized handholding, ensuring that SHGs, FPOs, Artisans
etc receive continuous guidance and support throughout their digital commerce journey.
8 Lakh

 

Speaking at the event, Mr. Sanjay Prakash, Managing Director & CEO, SBI Foundation, emphasized the need for young changemakers to lead India’s rural development efforts. He said, “For over 14 years, the SBI Youth for India Fellowship has been a catalyst for social change, empowering 640 dedicated individuals to co-create sustainable solutions at the grassroots. Through our focus on key thematic areas, including education, healthcare, women empowerment, and rural livelihoods, our Fellows have made a lasting impact across 21 States, and Union Territories, transforming the lives of over 1,50,000 people.

This journey is a testament to the power of collective action and innovation in addressing critical social challenges. By fostering a network of socially conscious leaders, we are not only driving immediate change but also building a strong foundation for long-term rural development. As we look ahead, SBI Foundation remains committed to expanding this impact, supporting social entrepreneurs, and strengthening community-driven initiatives. Our goal is to continue bridging gaps, empowering communities, and enabling sustainable progress through collaboration and innovation.”

 

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

 

Uttar Pradesh: Muslim Woman Stripped off Hijab in Muzaffarnagar, 6 Arrested

By
Akanksha Yadav
-

A very shocking and disturbing incident has triggered widespread outrage in Uttar Pradesh. A Muslim woman wearing a burqa was physically assaulted in Muzaffarnagar. As if it weren’t enough the mob forcibly removed her hijab in the Khalapar area.

However, the disturbing incident was captured on a mobile phone by an eyewitness. The video was widely shared on various social media platforms. The video shows a group of men harassing the woman and beating the Hindu man accompanying her. The incident came to light as the video went viral on social media. Following this the police promptly arrested six individuals in connection to the case.

Victims Targeted While Returning from Work Errand

The alleged incident in question took place on April 12, between 4 and 4:30 PM. A 20-year-old woman, Farheen, a resident of Khalapar was returning after some work. She was accompanied by her colleague Sachin, who was returning from Sujdu. Both were going back after collecting a loan installment on behalf of Utkarsh Small Finance Bank.

According to reports both Farheen and her friend work in Utkarsh Small Finance Bank. The authorities stated that the duo was stopped in a narrow lane known as Darzi Wali Gali by a mob. The group of 8-10 individuals then verbally abused and physically assaulted both of them.

Eyewitnesses present at the scene captured the brutal incident on mobile phones. The footage quickly went viral online, prompting swift police intervention and arrest of 6 individuals.

Viral Video Sparks Outcry

The video which went viral on social media shows one of the men can be seen forcibly pulling off the woman’s hijab. Meanwhile, others present were recording and hurling abuses at them.


The mob did not stop here, the further went on assaulting the Hindu male companion, leaving both victims shocked and traumatized. In the video the woman can be seen struggling to defend herself amid the mob.

As the video was circulated on social media it sparked massive outrage. The netizens are demanding strict action against the perpetrators. The police responded promptly, rushed to the spot, dispersed the crowd, and escorted the victims safely to the police station.

Police Action and Arrests

Muzaffarnagar City Circle Officer (CO) Raju Kumar Sao stated, “On April 12, between approximately 4 and 4:30 PM, a Hindu man from Bhavan area and a Muslim woman from Khalapar, both associated with Utkarsh Small Finance Bank, were returning from Sujdu after collecting a loan installment. They were stopped and assaulted by some locals in Darzi Wali Gali”.

Conspiracy Theory Fuels Targeted Attacks

The assault is being linked to the controversial ‘Bhagwa Love Trap’ conspiracy theory. According to reports, this theory alleges that Hindu men are systematically targeting Muslim women in interfaith relationships. However the theory is widely debunked, it still continues to circulate among extremist groups, often fueling such mob attacks.

Public Demands Justice

Meanwhile, the brutality and severe nature of the Muzaffarnagar incident have led to nationwide condemnation. People have called for justice for the humiliation faced by the woman in public.

Several activists and citizens alike are urging law enforcement agencies to not only punish the attackers but also take steps to curb rising incidents of communal vigilantism from occurring in future.

The authorities have stated that a thorough investigation is ongoing. They also assured that further arrests will be made if additional suspects are identified.

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