Andhra Pradesh, India: Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), one of India’s leading FMCG companies, has strengthened its commitment to community development initiatives in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh under its comprehensive CSR program: Project SHINE. These efforts include, installation of water filtration units, installing solar streetlights, Water Access, Sanitation, & Hygiene (WASH) programs, and implementation of sales and marketing training for youth. The initiatives were inaugurated by Smt. Gouthu Sireesha, Hon’ble MLA, Palasa Assembly constituency and Shri. Gondu Shankar Rao, Hon’ble MLA, Srikakulam Assembly constituency, at different events held in Srikakulam in the presence of local officials, community members and beneficiaries.
As part of its commitment to improving sanitation and hygiene, HCCB has installed water filtration units at Zilla Parishad High School (ZPHS), Brahmanatarla, ZPHS School, Yerramukkam, ZPHS School, Isakalapalem, Government Girls Jr Degree College, Arasavalli, ZPHS School, Govinda Puram, Girls Degree College, Harsha Valli temple side, Srikakulam, District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) College, Vomaravalli, ZPHS School, Nadumuru, Santha Bommali High School, and ZPHS School, Narasannapeta. Additionally, two more water filtration units have been installed at the Government General Hospital in Balaga, further expanding access to clean drinking water in the region. The company is also conducting WASH sessions in schools and communities covering essential topics such as personal hygiene, proper handwashing techniques, good sanitation practices, adolescence, and the prevention of communicable diseases.
Speaking on the initiative, Smt. Gouthu Sireesha, Hon’ble MLA, Palasa Assembly constituency said, “Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental necessity for good health and well-being. The installation of the RO water filtration unit at Srikakulam, will greatly benefit students, teachers and residents, ensuring they have access to safe and hygienic drinking water. HCCB’s commitment to social welfare and sustainability is commendable, and I look forward to more such collaborations for community upliftment.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to clean energy and sustainable infrastructure, HCCB has installed 60 solar-powered streetlights in Bethalapuram, Kotharevu, and Kunduvanipeta near Srikakulam town. The solar streetlights and panels provide nighttime visibility, contributing to a safer and more secure environment for the communities.
HCCB is also investing in Srikakulam’s future, bridging the skill gap by providing youth with sales and marketing training to improve employability and career prospects. These programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs and proficiency levels of young people from various backgrounds, ensuring active and practical learning.
Commenting on the project, Shri. Gondu Shankar Rao, Hon’ble MLA, Srikakulam Assembly constituency said, “The installation of solar-powered streetlights in Kunduvanipeta village is a significant step towards improving the quality of life for our communities. Reliable and sustainable infrastructure like this enhances safety and supports local livelihoods. We appreciate HCCB’s proactive approach in bringing such impactful initiatives to the region.”
Himanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Officer, HCCB, added, “At HCCB, we are deeply committed to uplifting communities by focusing on sustainable solutions that improve health, and economic empowerment. The installation of water filtration units and solar lights, along with our ongoing skill development programs for youth, reflects our continued dedication to making a meaningful impact in Srikakulam.”
Project SHINE is centred on five core thematic areas: Sustainable Solutions for Environment & Disaster Management, Health & Hygiene through WASH Initiatives, Inclusive Growth via Women Empowerment & Livelihood, Nurturing Potential with Education & Skill Building, and Empowering Communities for a Better Future. Through Project SHINE, HCCB consistently engages in various CSR initiatives including water rejuvenation and skill development training for women and youth in Andhra Pradesh. To date, HCCB’s efforts have positively influenced the lives of approximately 2 lakh individuals across Andhra Pradesh. Furthermore, HCCB has provided Digital & Financial literacy training to more than 4,000 women and has implemented several CSR projects, including the installation of water ATMs, digital Smartboards, and solar streetlights.
HCCB has also collaborated with the Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC) to provide sales and marketing training to 5,000 young professionals and have trained over 7,650 individuals so far. This partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), spans seven districts in Andhra Pradesh: Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, Anantapur, Kurnool, Kadapa, Guntur, and Chittoor.