The CSC CSR Conclave 2025 hosted in Delhi highlighted India’s journey toward inclusive growth and rural empowerment, and the role being played by technology in social transformation. The theme of the conclave was leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for a sustainable tomorrow through rural empowerment and inclusive growth. The event underscored the powerful role played by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in bridging the urban-rural divide through Common Services Centres (CSCs).
The event featured a series of expert-led discussions that explored the intersection of CSR, environmental sustainability, and community development. Key topics included education, skilling, digital literacy, financial inclusion, women empowerment, and healthcare.
The conclave, organised by CSC Academy and the Indian ESG Network, saw participation from leaders from government, corporate, and development sectors who shared their views on how CSR can drive environmental sustainability, community development, and transformative change in rural India.
Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide through Technology
The conclave was inaugurated by Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
“CSC represents a radical idea bridging the urban-rural divide through technology,” said Atul Kumar Tiwari at the inauguration. He also cited the visionary role of Common Services Centres (CSCs) in strengthening India’s social capital.
He acknowledged the vital role of CSC Academy in advancing CSR initiatives, especially in vocational training and digital empowerment for rural populations, and praised CSC’s alignment with national goals, particularly through government schemes such as the PM Vishwakarma Yojana.
CSCs as catalysts for change
Sanjay Kumar Rakesh, Chairman and Secretary of CSC Academy, expanded on the transformative impact of the Common Services Centres (CSCs) across the country. He described CSCs not just as digital access points but as catalysts for change, operated by Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) who empower their communities.
“CSR is not just a statutory requirement but a strategic driver for inclusive progress,” said Rakesh, emphasizing the Academy’s focus on scalable and measurable CSR programs aimed at reaching underserved rural populations.
Dr. Biswajit Saha, Director (Training & Skill Education) at CBSE, also highlighted the role of CSC Academy in preparing the next generation for future challenges, particularly in fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, and Healthcare.
The Conclave concluded with a commitment to utilising CSR to drive rural transformation, with CSC Academy reaffirming its mission to empower rural India through digital inclusion, skill- based education, and public-private partnerships. The event underscored the importance of collaboration across sectors to create a sustainable and inclusive future for all.
