India’s largest iron ore producer NMDC Limited is ensuring the development of Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The PSU has invested Rs 298 lakh to develop the scenic river confluence at Shankini-Dankini, to boost tourism and drive sustainable livelihoods for tribal communities.
NMDC Limited has developed a picturesque ghat and pitching area at the sacred confluence of the Shankini and Dankini rivers. Executed under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, the project is aimed at boosting tourism, fostering sustainable livelihoods, and aligning with national campaigns like Dekho Apna Desh and Swadesh Darshan.
Talking about the CSR initiative, Rajvijay Tandon, Executive Engineer, Rural Engineering Service Division, Dantewada said, “The construction of the retaining wall and ghats in Dantewada, supported by NMDC’s CSR initiative, has transformed the area into a center for religious and social activities. Furthermore, the construction of the retaining wall ensures that there will be no adverse impact on the river in the future.”
Dantewada features one of the 52 Shakti Peethas
Dantewada, home to the revered Danteshwari Temple, one of the 52 Shakti Peethas has long drawn pilgrims during Chaitra Navratri, Sharadiya Navratri, Fagun Mela, and the grand Dussehra celebrations. Yet, despite its cultural and natural significance, the region remained largely untapped as a tourist destination. The newly constructed ghat is not only enhancing access to the river’s serene beauty but also acting as a catalyst for economic and social revitalization.
Tribal Welfare through CSR
The CSR initiative has also transformed the lives of local tribal communities. For generations, these less-privileged families, residing deep within forested villages, relied heavily on forest resources for survival and never imagined that the natural water bodies surrounding them could become the focal point of a thriving tourism economy.
Today, the rise in tourist footfall is translating into real, tangible benefits. The tribal families are becoming self-sufficient, engaging in eco-tourism, showcasing local crafts and offering visitor services that generate steady income. Their reduced dependency on forest exploitation is also leading to more sustainable and environmentally responsible livelihoods.
NMDC skilling the youth of Dantewada and Bastar through CSR
NMDC, under its CSR programme, recently partnered with the Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET) to provide free skill development training courses for 500 youth from Dantewada and Bastar districts of Chhattisgarh. The programme is designed to generate employment opportunities in the region by equipping young individuals with industry-relevant skills. NMDC will be fully funding the course fees of all 500 students to ensure that students can participate in the skill development course.
Courses Offered
The courses offered under this initiative cover multiple levels of qualification. For 8th pass students, courses include Machine Operator – Plastics Processing, Injection Molding, Blow Molding, Plastic Extrusion, Plastic Recycling, FRP Operator, and more, with a total of 400 seats available. Similarly, 10th pass students can enroll in Diploma in Plastic Technology (DPT) and Diploma in Plastic Mold Technology (DPMT), with 80 seats in total. For graduates in science, a PG Diploma in Plastics Processing & Testing (PGD-PPT) is available, offering 20 seats.
After completing these courses, students will have the opportunity to earn between Rs 15,000 – Rs 25,000 per month, as CIPET guarantees 70% placement for successful candidates.
By providing free skill-based education, NMDC is not only ensuring employment for local youth but also strengthening the region’s economy. As more skilled workers enter the job market, it will lead to increased industrial growth, higher income levels, and economic self-sufficiency for families. The programme is aimed at encouraging local entrepreneurship, reducing migration in search of jobs and creating a sustainable workforce within Dantewada and Bastar.
