On the occasion of International Literacy Day in September 2025, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu officially declared the state as “fully literate,” citing a remarkable literacy rate of 99.3%, surpassing the national benchmark of 95%. With this milestone, Himachal Pradesh has become the fourth state in India to achieve full literacy status under the Ullas (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) scheme, a central government initiative launched in 2022 to improve adult literacy for individuals above 15 years of age.

In FY 2023-24, Himachal Pradesh received CSR funds worth Rs. 148.59 Crore from 313 companies. From this amount, Rs. 49.22 Crores were spent on various initiatives related to education, Rs. 48.87 Crores were spent on health, eradicating hunger, poverty and malnutrition related initiatives, and Rs. 15.82 Crores were spent on environment and animal welfare-related initiatives, according to the National CSR Portal.

The district of Sirmaur received the highest share of CSR funds (Rs 27.48 crores) followed by Bilaspur (Rs 25.36 crores) and Solan (Rs 21.76 crores).

The top three contributors to the state include Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, NHPC Limited, SJVN Limited, HDFC Bank Limited and JSW Hydro Energy Limited which spent Rs. 19.7 Crores, Rs. 17.28 Crores, Rs. 13.57 Crores, Rs 12.91 and Rs 3.12 Crores respectively, from their CSR funds.

Let us look at the top CSR projects in the hilly state, contributing to its development.

Top Companies for CSR in Himachal Pradesh

Government School Reconstructed in Flood-Affected Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

The PwC India Foundation, in partnership with SEEDS reconstructed the Kuklah Government Primary School in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh which was impacted by the devastating flash floods of 2023.

“Our mission is deeply rooted in service of the nation. Reconstructing Kuklah Government Primary School is not just about rebuilding a structure, but about securing the future of young minds. Education is the cornerstone of resilience, and through this initiative, we aim to empower the next generation,” said Jaivir Singh, Vice Chairman, PwC India Foundation.

CSR to Bring Clear Vision to Remote Himalayan Communities

Government of Himachal Pradesh along with redBus and VisionSpring Foundation, are extending vision care services to underserved Himalayan communities, aiming to reach 5,000 people through eye screenings, eyeglasses dispensing, eye care referrals, and awareness campaigns in Himachal Pradesh, India.

This initiative is part of VisionSpring Foundation’s broader mission to address the 55-crore people across India who lack the eyeglasses they need to see clearly, including 30 lakh people in Himachal Pradesh with limited or no access to eye care. Eyeglasses are a proven, cost-effective solution, increasing earning potential by up to 33.4% and boosting productivity by up to 32%. Clear vision can also enhance learning outcomes for children in schools and make roads safer for drivers and transport workers.

CSR initiative “Care on Wheels” Launched in Himachal Pradesh

FUJIFILM India – a leader in healthcare imaging technology, has announced its latest CSR initiative “Care on Wheels” in Himachal Pradesh on the occasion of World Health Day. Inaugurated by Dr.(Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Honourable Minister of Health and Welfare, Government of Himachal Pradesh, this groundbreaking intervention features a dual approach with a static healthcare center complemented by a fully equipped mobile van that will deliver X-Ray and clinical chemistry tests combined with tele-radiology and tele-health services directly to people’s doorsteps.

Adani Foundation and ACC Gaggal support rural youth through industry-oriented training

ACC is enhancing the livelihood prospects of rural communities through targeted skill development interventions. In Gaggal, Himachal Pradesh, ACC and Adani Foundation are equipping young candidates with the skills needed to enter formal employment and support their families.

Born into a small farming family in a village in Himachal Pradesh, Girish Kumar grew up witnessing the financial stress his parents faced. Determined to improve his family’s fortunes and contribute, he sought opportunities that could provide him with a steady source of income and long-term stability.

His path to progress began when he enrolled in a three-month ” Retail Sales Associate” course at the Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC). This program provided him with practical experience in customer service, sales techniques, communication skills, and workplace behaviour—key requirements for roles in the retail industry. After completing his training, Girish secured a job at Reliance Retail Limited in Sundernagar, where he earns Rs 13,500 per month with incentives . This job has eased the family’s financial pressure and given them the confidence to build a better future.

CSR of Canara HSBC Life Insurance

Project Cheer – Urja, an environmental sustainability initiative of Canara HSBC Life Insurance, in collaboration with Ashray Foundation, has initiated production of green energy from pine needles in the form of briquettes – a biofuel. The production unit has been set up in Tepar village, Panarsa, Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, marking a significant milestone within the region’s efforts toward green energy solutions.

The inauguration of production plant was attended by members of the NGO partner, District Forest Officer, Canara Bank officials, the Gram Panchayat members, women from Self Help Groups, and local youth, highlighting the collaborative effort and diverse community involvement in the project. Project Cheer-Urja addresses multiple social and environmental challenges simultaneously by harnessing the potential of pine needles.

 At its heart, this project thrives on the strength of local community women and self-help groups, elevating them as pillars of sustainable change. Engaging and empowering through decision-making and eco-friendly product training, ‘Cheer-Urja’ is more than an initiative; it’s a promise for a greener, empowered future.

With technical support from IIT Mandi, the unit produces 4 tons of briquettes in 8 hours, positively impacting the environment. The project’s holistic approach includes capacity building for self-help groups, youth engagement, and financial awareness, making it a beacon of sustainable community development.

CSR of MakeMyTrip

In the wake of the unprecedented devastation in the states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, MakeMyTrip Foundation initiates the immediate deployment of INR 5 crores towards relief efforts, in July 2023. The Foundation will work with a network of on-ground partners, government bodies, experts, NGOs, and locals to help operationalize immediate relief efforts.

Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman, MakeMyTrip and Trustee, MakeMyTrip Foundation said, “There is an urgent need to send essential resources to aid the people of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand as they grapple with the extensive damages caused by the recent flooding. MakeMyTrip is a conduit for the discovery of the unparalleled beauty of these states. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to also help the local community in their time of need.”

“The current situation in these mountain states is trying, and requires a collective effort by each and every one of us. Small contributions will go a long way in aiding the emergency response action and enhance the quality of lives of the local communities who play host to us when we visit their home state,” added Deep.

CSR of Coal India

Coal India Limited (CIL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Himachal Pradesh for the construction of a prefabricated building for a Government Primary School at Kumarsain, Shimla, HP, as part of the company’s CSR initiative. The PSU will extend financial assistance of rupees one crore towards the construction of a prefabricated building built with Light Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF) technology for the Government Primary School at Kumarsain in Himachal Pradesh.

CSR of Jindal Steel Works (JSW)

Across India, STEM Learning is the implementation partner of Mini Science Centres (MSCs). Integrating STEM Learning in the education sector develops curiosity, inquisitiveness, critical thinking, problem-solving, imagining, innovating, questioning and exploring, designing and building, testing and modifying their solutions to complex problems among learners. This modern way of teaching not only helps students comprehend the concepts and their applications easily but also helps in implementing them for the progress of society as the students will be equipped with the required knowledge and skills for life.

JSW has extended its support to install MSCs in 5 schools of Himachal Pradesh. The MSCs have been installed in the remotest areas of the state, where students walk 2-3 km to reach their schools. Most of the students stopped coming to school as they had to walk a long distance. So the dilemma faced by the schools was to motivate students to regularly attend school. The chalk and board method doesn’t attract students nor peaks their interest. This is where MSCs played an active role.

Once installed MSCs become the property of the school and school authorities have added resources to use at their disposal. MSCs have 80 plugs and play models and each model is aligned to the syllabus of classes 5th to 10th which makes them a prerequisite to classroom learning. The exhibits are interactive and colourful which draws the attention of students and keep them engaged for a long period. While students are exploring these models they raise questions and learn in the process. Post-installation of the MSCs, through word of mouth the perks of the new interesting learning exhibits, got around. The students’ curiosity peaked and a rise in attendance was seen in schools.

348 students have experienced this educational transformation in Himachal Pradesh.

CSR of Hero MotoCorp

As part of its CSR initiatives towards the COVID-19 relief, Hero MotoCorp has donated four specially designed First Responder Vehicles (FRVs) based on the Xtreme 200R to the Department of Health and Family Welfare in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The company says that these unique and utilitarian vehicles will be useful for reaching out to patients and the needy in rural and remote areas. Moreover, these can comfortably move them to the nearest hospitals. The said FRVs come with a full stretcher along with a foldable hood mounted on the side, essential medical equipment like a detachable first-aid kit, oxygen cylinder, fire extinguisher and other safety features. These safety bits include LED Flasher Lights, foldable beacon light, emergency wireless public announcement system and siren.

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JSW has to spend the CSR amount within a year: NGT

The order, issued by the Western Bench of the NGT, has directed JSW to complete the CSR expenditure within one year. The company has been asked to submit detailed reports of the CSR activities undertaken to its Board of Directors. The CSR expenditure reports must also be published in the company’s Annual Report and updated on its website every six months until restoration measures are completed, as per the order.

Allegation against JSW Steel Works

In 2022, social activist Samita Patil and agriculturist Sunil Kothekar had filed a petition alleging large-scale environmental damage due to the unauthorized expansion of JSW’s steel plant, the construction of a coke oven facility, and conveyor belt infrastructure leading to its private jetty.

According to the complainants, these developments encroached on sensitive mangrove ecosystems near Dharamtar Creek, allegedly destroying 1.89 hectares of mangroves and disturbing natural water channels.

JSW denies allegations

JSW has denied the allegations of violating environmental norms. The company has stated that they had obtained all environmental and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearances necessary for the projects.

JSW violated Coastal Regulation Zone norms: NGT

The NGT has alleged that certain constructions — particularly the conveyor belt — were carried out within 50 meters of the mangroves, violating CRZ norms. Coastal Regulation Zone or CRZ norms in India govern development activities along the coastline, with the primary goal of protecting ecologically sensitive areas and ensuring sustainable development.

Received clearances from Environment Ministry: JSW

JSW, in its defence, has claimed that it has received multiple clearances by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). The company claims that no mangroves were present within 50 meters of their construction sites at the time of approval. JSW also argued that the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) and MoEF&CC had conducted inspections at regular intervals and had not found any violations until recently.

Regarding the damage to mangroves, the company, in its reply, has blamed the loss on waste dumped by nearby village panchayats around the conveyor gallery.

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Mysuru saw a drastic fall in the amount of CSR funds it received in FY 2023 as compared to the previous year. It received a total of Rs 62 lakh from only two companies in FY23, as against the Rs 50.2 crore from 125 companies in the previous year. The two companies that contributed CSR funds in Mysuru in FY23 are Bt E-Serv (India) Private Limited, and Bt Global Business Services Private Limited.

Top CSR projects in Mysore

Lake Rejuvenation by Infosys

The Hebbal Lake in Mysuru is spread over an area of 40 acres in the Hebbal Industrial Area and was once known as an important source of potable water. Over the years, the area around this once beautiful lake became heavily urbanised leading to untreated sewage being discarded in the lake and its surroundings.

Infosys as a part of its CSR activities joined hands with the Mysore administration – KIADB and MUDA to rejuvenate the lake and restore its past glory.

The project involved desilting and beautification, including creating a walking path and planting trees around it so that the community got involved and saw first-hand the effects of taking care of the lake. A sewage treatment plant (STP) is being constructed near the lake with a capacity to treat 8 million litres of sewage per day so that the lake and the surroundings are free of untreated sewage. They are using advanced membrane bioreactor technology in the treatment plant to ensure that only the highest quality of treated water is let out into the lake.

Infosys has seen that automation goes a long way in reducing human error and hence have implemented this technology in the STP to ensure high-quality treatment without much manual intervention.

This ongoing lake rejuvenation and conservation project aims to set a benchmark for similar projects that can be adopted by administrative bodies across the country. By involving the community, the company has made them the stakeholders ensuring the project continues under the leadership of the people from the Hebbal Lake area.

Safar by Asian Paints

Safar is a healthcare initiative directed towards improving health awareness and correcting lifestyle habits of truckers. They also get medical care facilities for that is both consultative and curative in nature. The project uses mass communication techniques like nukkad natak (street plays), games, interpersonal communication sessions and films to spread awareness on various health issues like ergonomic illnesses, skin diseases and gastritis, among others targeting truck drivers. The initiative is running across seven manufacturing locations in Kasna, Rohtak, Visakhapatnam, Mysuru, Patancheru, Khandala and Sriperumbudur. During the year, Safar covered the treatment of over 32,000 truckers.

Mission Against Malnutrition – JSW Group

There are several NGOs and Government initiated projects fighting malnutrition, but JSW’s Mission Against Malnutrition (MAM) CSR project blends action-research, evidence-based advocacy and administrative capabilities of bringing together multiple partners for a common cause: fighting child malnutrition among disadvantaged families. It is among the top CSR-funded nutrition programmes in India.

After a series of consultations with Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) at Mysuru, other experts in the field, and importantly studying the ground situation thoroughly between September 2013 and June 2014, JSW Foundation (the CSR wing of the company) identified micronutrient deficiency in the diet of the enrolled undernourished children. Therefore, it was planned that an additional dose of micronutrients in small doses can be added in the children’s diet. The CSR team finally zeroed in on Spirulina fortified sugar (SFS) as a solution and developed a simple, cost-effective, easy to replicate and scale up the plan.

Spirulina is a natural food well known for its nutritional qualities worldwide. It was basically chosen because while it can provide several important micronutrients required by children’s healthy growth and development, it can also be easily cultivated and processed locally by the local communities.

Mission Against Malnutrition brought together the Department of Women & Child Development, Government of Karnataka, CSRs like JSW Foundation and Supraja Foundation, NGOs like Spirulina Foundation, Bhoruka Charitable Trust, Pranati, Charitable Trust For Integrated Development, reputed research institutes like CFTRI, Mysuru, IHMR-Bengaluru, Vijayanagara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIIMS)-Ballari, Department of Social Studies, VSK University and management agency like IID, Bengaluru on board.

With 30,716 malnourished children (between the age group of 6 months to 6 years) and another 15,000 anaemic pregnant women, lactating mothers and adolescent girls being supplemented with Spirulina during a pilot Mission phase of three years, this was the single largest ‘mission’ against malnutrition conducted globally. A dramatic reduction in the levels of malnutrition was observed; up to a 42% reduction in the number of malnourished children during 2014-16 and a 45.3% reduction in 2016-17 trials.

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According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2023, India ranked 140th out of 156 countries in terms of gender parity, with a score of 0.621. This indicates a wide gap between men and women in terms of economic participation, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. To address this gap, many corporate entities in India have taken up the mantle of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and initiated various projects and programs to empower women and girls in rural and urban areas.

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we present a list of the top 10 companies in India that have excelled in CSR and women empowerment in 2023. These companies have implemented innovative and impactful projects that have enhanced the income, skills, confidence, and well-being of millions of women in India. These companies have also received recognition and awards for their CSR efforts and have set an example for other businesses to follow.

The top 10 companies for CSR and women empowerment in India in 2023 are:

Reliance Industries

Reliance’s women empowerment programmes are a set of initiatives that aim to enhance the leadership, economic, and social opportunities for women in India. Some of the programmes are:

– The WomenLead India Fellowship, powered by Reliance Foundation and Vital Voices, is a 10-month long fellowship that strengthens the leadership capacity of 50 inspirational Indian women leaders who are addressing urgent economic and social issues across the key areas of Rural Transformation, Education, Sports for Development, and Arts, Culture and Heritage. The fellowship provides mentoring, peer-to-peer engagement, and visibility to the fellows, as well as training in leadership skills, such as strategic planning, communication, advocacy, and fundraising. The fellowship also connects the fellows with a global network of women leaders and experts from various fields.

– The WomenConnect Challenge India, a partnership between Reliance Foundation and USAID, is a challenge that identifies and supports innovative solutions from not-for-profit organisations that empower women through access to and the use of digital technology to drive positive education and livelihood outcomes for themselves and their families. The challenge awards grants to the selected organisations, as well as provides technical assistance, mentoring, and networking opportunities. The challenge focuses on solutions that address the barriers that prevent women from accessing and using digital technology, such as affordability, accessibility, relevance, and social norms.

– The Women Empowerment Programme, which works with rural communities across India to enable women-inclusive development planning and decision-making, strengthen entrepreneurial and livelihood capabilities for women, and enhance access to basic entitlements for social security. The programme covers various interventions, such as increasing women’s participation in households, institutions, and community decision-making; supporting sustainable agriculture practices and climate resilience for food and nutrition security of women and children; enabling better quality of life with improved access to drinking water; increasing access to knowledge, livelihood skills, productive assets, markets, finance, and technologies; promoting women entrepreneurship on diverse livelihood options both farm and non-farm and increasing participation of women in various value chains; and supporting access to information, skills, and resources securing basic entitlements and social security schemes.

State Bank of India

The State Bank of India is committed to empowering women in India by providing them with financial and non-financial support. Through the SBI Women Empowerment Scheme, the company offers loans of up to Rs 2 lakh to women entrepreneurs who want to start or expand their businesses in various sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and services. The loans are given at a concessional interest rate of 7.5% and have a flexible repayment period of up to 5 years.

The company also supports the SBI Foundation, a public trust that works for the benefit of the society at large. The SBI Foundation runs various programmes for women empowerment, such as the SBI Youth for India Fellowship, which enables India’s bright young minds to join hands with rural communities; the SBI Gram Seva, which empowers the villages of India through integrated development initiatives; and the SBI Skill Development Initiative, which provides vocational training and placement assistance to rural women. Through these initiatives, the company aims to create a positive impact on the lives of millions of women across the country.

ITC Limited

ITC Limited is committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR), with a focus on generating livelihoods and environmental capital for rural communities and enhancing societal sustainability. One of the key areas of ITC’s CSR engagement is women empowerment, which aims to provide opportunities for rural women to earn independent incomes, improve their socio-economic status and contribute to their families and communities. ITC’s Women Empowerment Programme has four main strategies and interventions:

Overcoming financial inadequacy through micro-credit, seed money, loans and other forms of financial support

ITC helps women to form self-help groups (SHGs), where they can pool their savings, access credit and finance their self-employment, small businesses and micro-enterprises. ITC also provides seed money for women to start and run income-generating enterprises, such as sanitation, waste management and agarbatti (incense stick) production.

Promoting co-operative action and collective enterprises

ITC supports women to establish and manage women-managed agri-enterprises, such as dairy, poultry, vermicomposting and food processing. These enterprises enable women to earn regular, higher incomes, leverage economies of scale and benefit from collective bargaining power. They also give women confidence and a sense of solidarity from working together.

Expanding skills and know-how for better opportunities

ITC provides appropriate training for all programme participants, such as entrepreneurial, managerial, technical and vocational skills. For example, micro-credit SHG members learn to create and manage common funds, handle bank accounts, maintain documentation, etc. Waste management SHG members learn to communicate the benefits of source segregation, reduce-reuse-recycle, etc. Agri-enterprise members learn to improve the quality and productivity of their products, adopt best practices and comply with standards and regulations.

Creating capabilities for tomorrow by supporting primary education, health and sanitation, and solid waste management

ITC believes that investing in the human and social capital of rural women and their children is vital for their future well-being and empowerment. ITC supports primary education for rural children, especially girls, through its Mission Sunehra Kal programme, which aims to improve the quality and access of education in rural schools. ITC also supports health and sanitation initiatives, such as building toilets, promoting hygiene awareness and providing health check-ups and camps for rural women and children. ITC also supports solid waste management initiatives, such as creating awareness, providing infrastructure and facilitating collection and disposal of waste in rural areas.

ITC’s Women Empowerment Programme has reached over 60,000 women across 17 states in India, creating supplementary incomes, enhancing their decision-making power and improving their quality of life. The programme has also contributed to the social and environmental sustainability of rural communities, by promoting education, health, sanitation and waste management.

Hero MotoCorp

The Hero Women’s Empowerment Programme is a CSR initiative by Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters. The programme aims to provide women with opportunities to earn independent incomes, helping to strengthen their position as decision-makers in their families and in their communities. The programme has two main components:

– The Centre of Excellence for Women

This is a training centre set up at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Women, at Ambala in Haryana, in association with the Skill Development and Industrial Training Department, Government of Haryana and United Nations Development Program (UNDP). The centre offers industrial training to women in modern automotive technologies, such as repair and maintenance of two-wheelers, as well as two-wheeler riding training.

– The Hero Vired Scholarship

This is a special scholarship initiative launched ahead of International Women’s Day, which offers a 25% scholarship to women learners across all the programmes offered by Hero Vired, a LearnTech start-up by the Hero Group. The programmes cover various domains, such as data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, full-stack development, and finance and business management.

The Hero Women’s Empowerment Programme is part of Hero MotoCorp’s vision to promote gender diversity and women empowerment in the automotive industry and beyond. The programme has benefited thousands of women from rural and semi-urban areas, who have gained skills, confidence, and mobility through the programme.

JSW Steel Ltd

JSW Steel Limited is a leading steel company in India that has undertaken various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the field of women empowerment. Some of the key CSR initiatives are:

– JSW Shakti

This is a flagship program that aims to empower rural women entrepreneurs through rural BPOs, self-help groups, skill development, and financial inclusion. JSW Shakti has impacted over 10,000 women across 10 states in India.

– Maternal and child health care

JSW Steel provides efficient and quality health care services to pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under five years of age. The company also promotes institutional deliveries, immunization, nutrition, and family planning. JSW Steel has reached out to more than 2 lakh beneficiaries through its health care interventions.

– Education

JSW Steel supports the education of girls from marginalized communities by providing scholarships, infrastructure, teacher training, and digital learning. The company also facilitates early childhood education and pre-primary education for children in rural areas. JSW Steel has supported over 1.5 lakh students through its education initiatives.

– Livelihoods

JSW Steel enables women to enhance their income and livelihood opportunities by providing them with vocational skills, market linkages, and entrepreneurship development. The company also promotes agribusiness and organic farming among women farmers. JSW Steel has created over 50,000 livelihood opportunities for women through its livelihood initiatives.

– Water, sanitation, and hygiene

JSW Steel helps communities to access safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene awareness. The company also contributes to water conservation and environmental protection by implementing rainwater harvesting, watershed development, and afforestation projects. JSW Steel has improved the water and sanitation conditions of over 15 lakh people through its water and environment initiatives.

JSW Steel is committed to creating a value-based and empowered society through its CSR initiatives in women empowerment. The company believes in inclusive growth and social development for all.

Godrej Consumer Products

Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL) is a multinational FMCG company that has a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and women empowerment. Some of the CSR initiatives that GCPL has undertaken to support women are: Salon-i: This is a skill training program that provides beauty and hair care training to young people from underprivileged backgrounds, especially women. The program aims to enhance their employability and entrepreneurship skills, and has trained over 15,000 youth till date.

Beautypreneurs

This is an initiative that helps women entrepreneurs in the beauty and wellness sector to scale up their businesses and increase their income. The program provides mentoring, networking, and financial support to selected women who have completed the Salon-i training. The program has created over 1,500 beautypreneurs across India.

Nari Shakti

This is a project that provides training to women in various skills such as tailoring, embroidery, handicrafts, etc. The project also helps them to form self-help groups and access credit and market linkages. The project has benefited over 10,000 women across India.

Swavalamban

This is a project that provides financial assistance to women entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas or existing businesses that need capital infusion. The project also provides guidance and mentoring to the women to help them grow their ventures. The project has supported over 500 women entrepreneurs across India.

These are some of the CSR initiatives that GCPL has taken to empower women and improve their livelihoods. GCPL believes that women are the key drivers of social and economic development, and strives to create a positive impact on their lives through its CSR strategy.

Dabur

Dabur is a leading Indian consumer goods company that has a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and women empowerment. Some of the CSR initiatives that Dabur has undertaken to empower women are:

Vocational Skills Training

Dabur runs Skill Development Centres in rural areas of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Assam, where it provides training to young girls on various income-generating skills such as cutting-tailoring, beauty care, handicraft making, etc. These skills help them find employment in the service sector or start their own small businesses. Dabur also provides entrepreneurship development and financial education to these women, and helps them form Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) to access credit and savings facilities.

Livelihood Programmes

Dabur also promotes agro-based livelihood programmes, such as bee-keeping, food processing and preservation, vermicomposting, etc., to help rural women earn more and improve their living conditions. Dabur works with small farmers and rural communities in Uttar Pradesh and Assam to build their capacities and capabilities, and facilitate linkages to public services and schemes. Dabur also supports women in setting up piggery and goat-rearing businesses, and provides them with scientific management training.

Dabur’s CSR initiatives have helped thousands of women in the hinterland to become self-reliant, confident and empowered. Dabur believes that skill development is a powerful agent of social transformation, and that women are the key drivers of change in rural India.

Hindustan Zinc

Hindustan Zinc is a leading mining company in India that has been implementing various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to empower women in rural and tribal communities.

One of its flagship programs is Sakhi, which aims to mobilize women into self-help groups (SHGs) and provide them with vocational training, financial assistance, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Sakhi has been positively transforming the lives of over 27,000 women across 209 villages in Rajasthan.

Some of the achievements of Sakhi are:

– It has fostered 1,211 small and nano enterprises and 7 collective enterprises where women are part of the production, processing, and marketing departments.

– It has set up Sakhi Utpadan Samiti, a federation of 250+ women who run 11 micro businesses such as garment making, papad making, spice making, etc.

– It has helped disburse loans of ₹62.16 crore to its members, which are used for the development of agriculture, livestock, micro-enterprises, as well as for members’ household and social needs.

– It has won the ‘Leaders for Social Change’ Award from the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs for its impact on women empowerment.

Sakhi is an example of how Hindustan Zinc is bringing socio-economic empowerment to women and contributing to the nation’s development.

Tata Consultancy Services

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is a leading global IT services, consulting and business solutions organization, and a part of the Tata group, one of the largest conglomerates in India. TCS has a long history of corporate social responsibility (CSR), and it has many initiatives that aim to empower women in various ways.

One of the initiatives of TCS is the ‘Skill Development for Women’ program in India, which provides training to women in a variety of skills, such as tailoring, beauty care, computer literacy, and entrepreneurship. The program aims to enhance the income-generating potential of women, especially those from rural and marginalized communities, and to enable them to become self-reliant and independent. The program also creates awareness among women about their rights, health, and hygiene. The program has reached over 10,000 women across 15 states in India.

TCS also supports the ‘Water for All’ initiative of the Tata group, which provides clean water to rural communities, and has a special focus on women. The initiative installs water purification systems, rainwater harvesting structures, and piped water supply systems in villages, and also educates the villagers about water conservation and management. The initiative has a positive impact on the health, education, and livelihood of women, as they no longer have to spend hours fetching water from distant sources, and can use the saved time for productive activities or leisure.

TCS also participates in the ‘MPowered’ initiative of Tata Communications, which emerged as the winner in the Women Empowerment and Child Welfare category at The CSR Journal Excellence Awards 2023. The initiative is a beacon of empowerment for ultra-poor women, living on less than $1.90 per day, and provides them with access to digital tools, such as smartphones, tablets, and internet connectivity, to enhance their learning, earning, and social inclusion. The initiative also provides them with mentoring, coaching, and peer support, to help them overcome their challenges and achieve their aspirations. The initiative has reached over 1,000 women across India, Bangladesh, and Indonesia.

These are some of the examples of how TCS is committed to creating opportunities for women in technology and beyond, and dismantling gender stereotypes that exist in the industry. TCS follows the Tata group’s philosophy of sharing and serving the society, and its CSR initiatives are aligned with the globally-agreed sustainable development principles and the needs of the communities it serves.

HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank is one of the leading private sector banks in India that has been actively involved in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities under the umbrella brand of ‘Parivartan’. One of the key focus areas of HDFC Bank’s CSR is women empowerment, which aims to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities, financial inclusion, skill development, and social security to rural women.

Some of the CSR initiatives in women empowerment by HDFC Bank in India are:

– Sustainable Livelihood Initiative (SLI)

This initiative is a holistic model that mobilises rural women into self-help groups (SHGs) and provides them with financial and non-financial services, such as vocational training, financial literacy, insurance, and access to credit facilities. Through SLI, women have availed credit for themselves and utilised it for improving their occupations, such as tailoring, designing artificial jewellery, setting up grocery shops, livestock rearing, handicrafts, etc. Financial literacy and credit counselling educates the women on financial acumen and enables them to actively participate in household financial management.

– Parivartan Rural Development Programme

This programme aims to create sustainable communities by addressing the issues of water conservation, renewable energy, sanitation, health, education, and environment. Under this programme, HDFC Bank has developed over 10,500 water conservation structures and installed over 41,810 solar lights in rural India. The programme has also planted over 17.69 lakh trees, which has helped increase groundwater levels. Additionally, the programme has trained over 8.08 lakh women entrepreneurs and over 8,470 SHGs in rural India with the goal of empowering women.

– Parivartan Education Programme

This programme supports the education of underprivileged children, especially girls, by providing scholarships, infrastructure, digital literacy, teacher training, and career guidance. The programme has reached out to over 3.5 lakh children across 1,000 schools in India. The programme also supports the education of rural women by providing them with digital literacy and skill development courses.

– Parivartan Health Programme

This programme aims to improve the health and hygiene of rural communities, especially women and children, by providing preventive and curative healthcare services, such as health camps, mobile clinics, telemedicine, awareness campaigns, and sanitation facilities. The programme has benefited over 2.7 lakh people across 1,200 villages in India. The programme also supports the health of rural women by providing them with maternal and child health services, reproductive health services, and menstrual hygiene products.

HDFC Bank’s CSR initiatives in women empowerment have made a positive impact on the lives of millions of rural women in India by enhancing their income, skills, confidence, and well-being. The bank has also received recognition for its CSR efforts, such as the AA rating in the MSCI ESG ratings assessment and the Golden Peacock Award for Corporate Social Responsibility. HDFC Bank is committed to continue its CSR journey and contribute towards the economic and social development of the country by sustainably empowering its communities.

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In FY22, a total of 2018 companies contributed to Mumbai City’s thriving CSR landscape, collectively disbursing Rs. 2,890.8 Crores towards a diverse range of social and developmental projects. Among the various focus areas, health, education, and rural development took the forefront, with a substantial expenditure of Rs. 1,724.4 Crores, Rs. 730.13 Crores, and Rs. 184.01 Crores, respectively. These investments have played a pivotal role in addressing critical societal issues and enhancing the quality of life for the city’s residents.

Leading the charge in this philanthropic endeavour were some of India’s corporate giants. Tata Consultancy Services Limited (TCS) emerged as the top contributor, dedicating a commendable sum of Rs. 693.84 Crores to CSR initiatives within the city. HDFC Bank Limited followed closely, with an allocation of Rs. 280.15 Crores, while Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) showcased its commitment to social responsibility by disbursing Rs. 115.94 Crores towards various welfare projects.

As we delve deeper into the realm of CSR initiatives in Mumbai, we will explore the impactful projects, innovative strategies, and positive transformations brought about by corporate entities in this dynamic city.

Top CSR Initiatives in Mumbai

Reliance Foundation and Akshaya Chaitanya Tackling Hunger

One of the standout CSR initiatives making a profound impact on the social landscape of Mumbai is the collaboration between Akshaya Chaitanya and Reliance Foundation. Together, they have embarked on a mission to combat hunger and vulnerability in the city, focusing on two key areas: providing nutritious meals to children in municipal schools and extending support to families of patients in public hospitals.

This transformative initiative addresses a critical issue facing underprivileged children in Mumbai – the lack of adequate nutrition during their formative years. By offering wholesome meals, it not only nourishes the bodies but also nurtures the aspirations of these young minds, breaking down the barriers to education and brighter futures.

Moreover, the initiative extends its reach to the families of patients from vulnerable sections of society who often struggle to access hygienically prepared food in government hospitals. By making these meals readily available, it eases the burdens carried by these families during times of distress.

Jagannatha Kumar, CEO of Reliance Foundation, has emphasised the overarching goal of this initiative: “By serving food to people who cannot access it easily, we want to ensure the well-being of all.” The foundation’s extensive network of partners was instrumental in providing food aid during the pandemic, and this partnership with Akshaya Chaitanya continues that commitment significantly.

The impact of this collaboration is already tangible, with meals now being served across 19 government hospitals and 102 municipal schools in Mumbai. Among the countless beneficiaries of this initiative, is an 8-year-old Rukaiya, a resident of Daarukhana’s slums and a student in a municipal school in Byculla. With dreams of becoming a doctor, Rukaiya’s future was jeopardized due to the lack of proper nutrition. Orphaned at a young age and cared for by her grandmother, her story is emblematic of the vulnerable children whose lives are being positively impacted by this endeavour.

Akshaya Chaitanya’s ambitious vision for 2025 is to serve 1 lakh vulnerable adults and children, just like Rukaiya, every day in Mumbai. As this partnership between Akshaya Chaitanya and Reliance Foundation continues to flourish, it stands as a shining example of how corporate social responsibility can create meaningful change in the lives of Mumbai’s residents.

PNB Housing Finance’s Mobile Medical Units

Another standout CSR project in Mumbai is spearheaded by PNB Housing Finance, a prominent player in India’s housing finance sector, in collaboration with their CSR arm, Pehel Foundation. This noteworthy endeavour is none other than the ‘Mobile Medical Units’ initiative, implemented in partnership with the Wockhardt Foundation. The mission is to bring accessible primary healthcare services to the doorsteps of those who often go underserved – construction labourers and their families in bustling metropolises like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.

PNB Housing Finance and Pehel Foundation share a steadfast commitment to uplifting society through a multitude of initiatives spanning healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, and environmental conservation. However, it is the ‘Mobile Medical Units’ program that has emerged as a beacon of hope for the unsung heroes of the real estate industry – the construction workers. Despite being the backbone of the construction sector, these labourers frequently face insurmountable challenges in accessing essential medical facilities.

Mr. Girish Kousgi, the MD & CEO of PNB Housing Finance, articulated the significance of this initiative by stating, “Provision of healthcare services to underserved communities is a major challenge in our country, primarily due to limited access and insufficient economic resources.” He further added, “As an organization that goes beyond the realm of financial inclusion, we believe that this project will foster healthy individuals who contribute to the progressive growth of the country.” In essence, this initiative bridges the healthcare divide, providing free primary healthcare services to construction workers and their families residing in underprivileged localities.

Ajhay R Somvanshi, the Chief Operating Officer of Wockhardt Foundation, expressed gratitude towards PNB Housing Finance for their invaluable support in launching the ‘Mobile Medical Units.’ “Through this partnership,” he stated, “we will be able to extend our reach to urban slums, ensuring that those in need have access to free primary healthcare at their doorsteps.” The collaboration aims to make a positive difference in the lives of millions of people who may otherwise struggle to receive proper medical care.

Each Mobile Medical Unit is a self-contained healthcare facility, equipped with essential medical equipment and staffed by a dedicated team comprising a registered doctor, trained pharmacist, and licensed van driver. These units serve as a lifeline to beneficiaries, offering immediate treatment for a range of ailments, from common colds and skin infections to more serious conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Furthermore, patients requiring specialized treatment are referred to hospitals for advanced care. In addition to providing medical aid, the initiative also focuses on educating and sensitizing individuals on crucial aspects of health, hygiene, and sanitation.

In a city as bustling and diverse as Mumbai, initiatives like the ‘Mobile Medical Units’ program exemplify the transformative power of CSR endeavours. By delivering healthcare directly to those in need, not only alleviates suffering but also serves as a testament to the profound impact that corporate entities can have on the well-being of the communities they serve.

Suvidha centres by HUL and JSW

Another significant CSR initiative that has emerged in Mumbai is through the partnership of Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) and JSW Foundation. Their strategic collaboration aims to establish ten new ‘Suvidha’ centres across the city, building upon HUL’s pioneering public-private partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and HSBC India which has already made a profound impact on the lives of 300,000 people annually since its launch in 2016.

The expanded network of Suvidha centres, facilitated by the JSW Foundation, is set to provide a safe and dignified sanitation experience for an additional 200,000 individuals residing in low-income communities in Mumbai. These centres offer a comprehensive solution to hygiene and sanitation needs, encompassing safe toilets, purified drinking water, showers, and even laundry services – all under one roof.

One of the key highlights of this initiative is affordability, with drinking water priced at just Rs. 1 per litre and a family monthly pass available for a mere Rs. 150, ensuring access to essential services for those who need it most. Furthermore, these Suvidha centres are designed to be environmentally conscious, incorporating rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems, thus contributing to the conservation of over 300 million litres of fresh water over a decade. Additionally, these centres will be powered by solar energy, furthering their commitment to sustainability.

But these centres are more than just physical infrastructure – they prioritise the safety and well-being of women and children through inclusive design, ample lighting, CCTV cameras, and an emergency panic button. Moreover, to create a sense of ownership and pride within the communities they serve, the centres will employ staff from nearby areas.

Beyond the physical facilities, HUL and JSW Foundation are committed to driving a positive change in health and nutrition behaviours within the surrounding communities through extensive home-to-home visits. This holistic approach to community well-being exemplifies the power of CSR initiatives to foster lasting change and empower local communities.

Mrs. Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of JSW Foundation, expressed the significance of this partnership, stating, “Our partnership with HUL and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to establish 10 state-of-the-art Suvidha centres in Mumbai reiterates our commitment to empower local communities and pave the way for a brighter future, particularly for women and children.” Mr. Sanjiv Mehta, CEO and Managing Director of Hindustan Unilever, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing urban sanitation challenges.

Dr. Iqbal Chahal, Commissioner & Administrator of BMC, underscored the commitment to expanding access to quality sanitation and hygiene facilities, particularly focusing on the safety and well-being of women and children. This public-private partnership represents a significant stride toward creating a safe, inclusive, and healthy city for all Mumbai residents, exemplifying the remarkable impact that CSR initiatives can have on the communities they serve.

Kotak Junior Scholarship Program by Kotak Mahindra Bank

The Kotak Education Foundation (KEF), the CSR implementing agency of Kotak Mahindra Group, has introduced a transformative initiative known as the Kotak Junior Scholarship program. This program is designed to provide vital support for the further education of meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, specifically targeting Class 11 and beyond.

KEF’s vision for this program extends beyond financial aid; it seeks to establish a robust support system at the grassroots level, nurturing the overall education and development of the future youth of the country. Over an initial term of 2 years, this program caters to Class 11+ students from various boards, including SSC, CBSE, and ICSE.

What sets this initiative apart is its holistic approach to student development. Beyond offering financial support, it includes one-to-one mentoring, career guidance sessions, assistance with entrance exam preparation, exposure visits, and even home visits. This comprehensive engagement strategy aims to empower students not just academically but also in terms of their overall personal and professional growth.

KEF’s scholarship program has a rich history of supporting students for over a decade, benefiting over 3600 scholars to date. Remarkably, more than 800 alumni of the program have transitioned into successful white-collar professionals, contributing to leading companies and esteemed institutions.

Jayasree Ramesh, Executive Committee Member at KEF, emphasized the organization’s enduring commitment to empowerment through education, stating, “With the Kotak Junior Scholarship, we are focused towards a concrete student engagement plan to develop strong and qualified professionals, thereby helping their families rise above poverty.” This initiative not only opens doors to higher education but also paves the way for a brighter future for these deserving students and their families.

The eligibility criteria for the Kotak Junior Scholarship are stringent, ensuring that it reaches those who need it the most. To qualify, students must have scored more than 85% in their SSC/CBSE/ICSE Examination, secured admission for Class 11 in colleges within Mumbai, come from families with an annual income of less than Rs. 3,20,000, and reside within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Kotak Karma, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) identity of Kotak Mahindra Group, underlines the organization’s commitment to creating a positive and lasting impact on society. Through initiatives like the Kotak Junior Scholarship, KEF exemplifies how CSR can be a catalyst for transformative change, enabling bright young minds to overcome barriers and pursue their dreams in education.

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Mangroves are vital salt-tolerant forest ecosystems found in tropical and subtropical inter-tidal regions worldwide. Renowned for their rich biodiversity, these ecosystems play a crucial role as reservoirs of various plant and animal species. Mangroves act as a natural shield between the terrestrial and the marine ecosystems providing a protective barrier against coastal calamities such as storms and tsunamis. Dominated by mangrove trees and shrubs, these habitats offer numerous economic resources to coastal communities and provide an array of benefits to nearby residents.

Since 2016, JSW Foundation has been working to nurture this bio-shield between the water body and the adjoining land that would:

Prevent erosion of land and deterioration of soil quality thereby arresting the loss of fertility.
Promote development of habitat for various species of fauna including those of fish, prawns, molluscs, crabs, reptiles and birds.

One of the most unique aspects of this program is the integration of a ‘Livelihoods’ approach to restore the mangroves. The project has generated alternate livelihoods for nearby coastal communities through composite farming, pisciculture, home-based poultry farming, plantation of mangrove saplings and its transportation to nurseries and creation of environmentally friendly products such as jute bags.

From seed collection to jute bag preparation, nursery management and field plantation, more than 2000 women from 200+ Self Help Groups have not only earned income through project activities but have also developed a deep understanding of the importance of mangroves in their surroundings, collectively earning close to INR 5 Crores in the process. Women were also offered training on tailoring and other value added products to enhance their livelihood, many yielded benefits too.

Native fishermen communities too have been empowered through the utilization of community ponds as sources of livelihood. These ponds have been developed for fish farming, and the fishermen have actively participated in cleaning and deepening activities, enhancing both the ecological and economic aspects of their lives. Soil extracted from the excavation of community ponds has been effectively used to construct embankments and enrich adjoining fields. The nutrient-rich soil has proven beneficial for agricultural purposes, supporting sustainable farming practices.

The project has also promoted livelihood diversification through various initiatives such as pisciculture, crab-fattening, home-based poultry farming, and composite farming. These efforts have not only generated additional income streams but have also empowered local communities to explore sustainable economic opportunities.

The successful implementation of this restoration project underscores the importance of community engagement and sustainable livelihoods in environmental conservation. The collective efforts of all stakeholders involved have not only enhanced the mangrove ecosystem but have also improved the lives of local communities.

Commenting on this initiative Mr. Ashwini Saxena, CEO of JSW Foundation, “The ongoing mangroves restoration & conservation project at Dolvi, Taluka Pen in Raigad district of Maharashtra state is a reiteration of our commitment to the environment and people. The impact of the mangrove restoration project has been very encouraging for us. Environment management needs to be closely linked to the immediate as well as long-term needs of the communities around for sustenance and the traditional symbiosis that needs to be upheld.”

To further amplify the awareness on Mangroves, the Foundation actively commemorates World Mangroves’ Day on the 26th of July each year. Sensitization sessions, drawing competitions in schools, internal communications on mangrove importance, and sessions with representatives from the Mangroves’ Cell have been key activities conducted over the past five years to raise awareness and promote the sustainable management and conservation of mangroves. These interventions collectively aim to restore mangrove ecosystems, empower local communities, and promote the sustainable management and conservation of mangrove resources.

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

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In FY2021-22, the state received CSR expenditure of Rs. 108.1 Crore from over 157 companies. Of this amount, Rs. 41.71 Crores were spent on various initiatives related to healthcare and sanitation, Rs. 36.82 Crores were spent on education related initiatives, and Rs. 11.28 Crores were spent on heritage art and culture related initiatives. Rural development and environment conservation causes received Rs. 7.02 Crores and Rs. 4.98 Crores respectively in the state. According to National CSR Portal.

The top three contributors to the state include SJVN Limited, NHPC Limited and Wipro Limited who spent Rs. 31.55 Crores, Rs. 11.16 Crores, and Rs. 7.8 Crores respectively, under from their CSR funds.

Let us look at the top CSR projects in the hilly state, contributing to its development.

Top Companies for CSR in Himachal Pradesh

MakeMyTrip

In the wake of the unprecedented devastation in the states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, MakeMyTrip Foundation initiates the immediate deployment of INR 5 crores towards relief efforts, in July 2023. The Foundation will work with a network of on-ground partners, government bodies, experts, NGOs, and locals to help operationalize immediate relief efforts.

Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman, MakeMyTrip and Trustee, MakeMyTrip Foundation said, “There is an urgent need to send essential resources to aid the people of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand as they grapple with the extensive damages caused by the recent flooding. MakeMyTrip is a conduit for the discovery of the unparalleled beauty of these states. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to also help the local community in their time of need.”

“The current situation in these mountain states is trying, and requires a collective effort by each and every one of us. Small contributions will go a long way in aiding the emergency response action and enhance the quality of lives of the local communities who play host to us when we visit their home state,” added Deep.

Coal India

Coal India Limited (CIL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Himachal Pradesh for the construction of a prefabricated building for a Government Primary School at Kumarsain, Shimla, HP, as part of the company’s CSR initiative. The PSU will extend financial assistance of rupees one crore towards the construction of a prefabricated building built with Light Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF) technology for the Government Primary School at Kumarsain in Himachal Pradesh.

Jindal Steel Works (JSW)

Across India, STEM Learning is the implementation partner of Mini Science Centres (MSCs). Integrating STEM Learning in the education sector develops curiosity, inquisitiveness, critical thinking, problem-solving, imagining, innovating, questioning and exploring, designing and building, testing and modifying their solutions to complex problems among learners. This modern way of teaching not only helps students comprehend the concepts and their applications easily but also helps in implementing them for the progress of society as the students will be equipped with the required knowledge and skills for life.

JSW has extended its support to install MSCs in 5 schools of Himachal Pradesh. The MSCs have been installed in the remotest areas of the state, where students walk 2-3 km to reach their schools. Most of the students stopped coming to school as they had to walk a long distance. So the dilemma faced by the schools was to motivate students to regularly attend school. The chalk and board method doesn’t attract students nor peaks their interest. This is where MSCs played an active role.

Once installed MSCs become the property of the school and school authorities have added resources to use at their disposal. MSCs have 80 plugs and play models and each model is aligned to the syllabus of classes 5th to 10th which makes them a prerequisite to classroom learning. The exhibits are interactive and colourful which draws the attention of students and keep them engaged for a long period. While students are exploring these models they raise questions and learn in the process. Post-installation of the MSCs, through word of mouth the perks of the new interesting learning exhibits, got around. The students’ curiosity peaked and a rise in attendance was seen in schools.

348 students have experienced this educational transformation in Himachal Pradesh.

Hero MotoCorp

As part of its CSR initiatives towards the COVID-19 relief, Hero MotoCorp has donated four specially designed First Responder Vehicles (FRVs) based on the Xtreme 200R to the Department of Health and Family Welfare in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The company says that these unique and utilitarian vehicles will be useful for reaching out to patients and the needy in rural and remote areas. Moreover, these can comfortably move them to the nearest hospitals. The said FRVs come with a full stretcher along with a foldable hood mounted on the side, essential medical equipment like a detachable first-aid kit, oxygen cylinder, fire extinguisher and other safety features. These safety bits include LED Flasher Lights, foldable beacon light, emergency wireless public announcement system and siren.

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Established in 1964, Sidherameswara Padavi Purva School currently caters to children from eleven villages. The school has over 472 students of which 179 are girls from classes 1 to 10. Unfortunately, the students had been using one common shed as a toilet compromising the overall hygiene and health conditions at the school. It was also very inconvenient, especially for the girls to use a shared facility with so many other students. With the new toilet block, the children will now have separate washrooms. The new sanitation facility is expected to significantly improve the convenience and overall hygiene conditions for all students attending the school. The school expects to see more girls to enroll for admissions because of the new facilities and amenities provided by the JSW Group.

Commenting on this initiative Mr Ashwini Saxena, CEO of JSW Foundation said, “Our aim was to ensure better amenities for school children at a grassroot level. Lack of sanitary washrooms have led to an increase in the dropout rate of female students. By making basic amenities available to them we want to ensure more children attend school and complete their education. The construction of this toilet block at Sidherameswara Padavi Purva School bolsters our commitment of ensuring a brighter and healthier future for these children.”

Mr Nilesh Narwekar, CEO of JSW Cement said, “We are elated to be a part of an initiative that ensures a better future for the children and community of Ramanagara. We believe it will create a safer ecosystem for these children.”

Mr AS Sundaresan, CEO of JSW Paints added, “We are pleased to be a part of this initiative that makes the school safe and hygienic for children.”

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The key highlights of sanitation services provided at these Suvidha centres include:

1. New Suvidha centres to benefit additional 200,000 people through access to safe toilets, purified drinking water, showers, and laundry services.

2. All amenities will be available at affordable rates including drinking water at Rs. 1 per litre and a monthly pass at Rs. 150 for a family.

3. New centres will save 300 million litres of water over a decade and will run on solar energy. 

Suvidha centres serve as a comprehensive solution for the hygiene and sanitation needs of low-income communities, all under one roof. The Centres are conceived keeping in mind the safety and well-being of women and children through inclusive design, adequate lighting, CCTV cameras and a panic button for emergencies.

Moreover, the partners will undertake an extensive behaviour change program on health and nutrition through home-to-home visits in the communities around the centre. The centres will also be run by staff hired from the nearby communities, thereby building a sense of ownership and pride.

In addition to promoting hygiene, the Suvidha centres are also designed to be environmentally conscious and sustainable. Through the implementation of rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling methods, they will save over 300 million litres of fresh water in a decade. Additionally, HUL and JSW Foundation will work closely on further improving the community and environmental impact of the Suvidha Centres.

According to Mrs Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of JSW Foundation, “Our partnership with HUL and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to establish 10 state-of-the-art Suvidha centers in Mumbai reiterates our commitment to empower local communities and pave the way for a brighter future, particularly for women and children. Through this partnership with HUL, we are fostering a collective social action to further expand the network of Suvidha centers in the city with the aim to provide fresh drinking water and other sanitation services to low income communities residing in Mumbai city.”

Mr. Sanjiv Mehta, CEO and Managing Director, Hindustan Unilever, said, “Our Suvidha Centres exemplify how innovation and collective action by the public and private sectors can help address urban sanitation challenges. Launched as a small pilot with the invaluable support of BMC in 2016, Suvidha now impacts more than 300,000 people every year. We’re delighted to have JSW Foundation join our mission to enable access to safe sanitation for all. This partnership is evidence that Suvidha continues to be a path breaking model in the field of community well-being”.

Dr. Iqbal Chahal, Commissioner & Administrator, BMC, said, ‘’BMC and HUL are delighted to announce the partnership with JSW to further our mission of providing safe and dignified sanitation through the Suvidha Centres. Together, through this public-private partnership (PPP) we are committed to expanding access to quality sanitation for an additional 200,000 people residing in urban slums, with a particular focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of women and children. With 12 Suvidha Centres already operational, we are committed to replicate and scale this model making quality sanitation and hygiene facilities a reality for a larger population in Mumbai. This partnership represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to create a safe, inclusive, and healthy city for all.

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

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Mysuru was the fifth-largest recipient district of CSR funds in FY 2020-21. The district received a total of Rs. 20.51 Cr. in CSR funds from 86 companies in the given financial year. The top three contributors in the district include M K Agrotech Private Limited (3.29 Cr.), Arisglobal Software Private Limited (1.28 Cr.), Rga Software Systems Private Limited (1.15 Cr.). The top three areas of focus of the CSR projects in FY 2020-21 in Mysuru were Education, Health and Gender Equality.

Top CSR projects in Mysore

Lake Rejuvenation by Infosys

The Hebbal Lake in Mysuru is spread over an area of 40 acres in the Hebbal Industrial Area and was once known as an important source of potable water. Over the years, the area around this once beautiful lake became heavily urbanised leading to untreated sewage being discarded in the lake and its surroundings.

Infosys as a part of its CSR activities joined hands with the Mysore administration – KIADB and MUDA to rejuvenate the lake and restore its past glory.

The project involved desilting and beautification, including creating a walking path and planting trees around it so that the community got involved and saw first-hand the effects of taking care of the lake. A sewage treatment plant (STP) is being constructed near the lake with a capacity to treat 8 million litres of sewage per day so that the lake and the surroundings are free of untreated sewage. They are using advanced membrane bioreactor technology in the treatment plant to ensure that only the highest quality of treated water is let out into the lake.

Infosys has seen that automation goes a long way in reducing human error and hence have implemented this technology in the STP to ensure high-quality treatment without much manual intervention.

This ongoing lake rejuvenation and conservation project aims to set a benchmark for similar projects that can be adopted by administrative bodies across the country. By involving the community, the company has made them the stakeholders ensuring the project continues under the leadership of the people from the Hebbal Lake area.

Safar by Asian Paints

Safar is a healthcare initiative directed towards improving health awareness and correcting lifestyle habits of truckers. They also get medical care facilities for that is both consultative and curative in nature. The project uses mass communication techniques like nukkad natak (street plays), games, interpersonal communication sessions and films to spread awareness on various health issues like ergonomic illnesses, skin diseases and gastritis, among others targeting truck drivers. The initiative is running across seven manufacturing locations in Kasna, Rohtak, Visakhapatnam, Mysuru, Patancheru, Khandala and Sriperumbudur. During the year, Safar covered the treatment of over 32,000 truckers.

Mission Against Malnutrition – JSW Group

There are several NGOs and Government initiated projects fighting malnutrition, but JSW’s Mission Against Malnutrition (MAM) CSR project blends action-research, evidence-based advocacy and administrative capabilities of bringing together multiple partners for a common cause: fighting child malnutrition among disadvantaged families. It is among the top CSR-funded nutrition programmes in India.

After a series of consultations with Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) at Mysuru, other experts in the field, and importantly studying the ground situation thoroughly between September 2013 and June 2014, JSW Foundation (the CSR wing of the company) identified micronutrient deficiency in the diet of the enrolled undernourished children. Therefore, it was planned that an additional dose of micronutrients in small doses can be added in the children’s diet. The CSR team finally zeroed in on Spirulina fortified sugar (SFS) as a solution and developed a simple, cost-effective, easy to replicate and scale up the plan.

Spirulina is a natural food well known for its nutritional qualities worldwide. It was basically chosen because while it can provide several important micronutrients required by children’s healthy growth and development, it can also be easily cultivated and processed locally by the local communities.

Mission Against Malnutrition brought together the Department of Women & Child Development, Government of Karnataka, CSRs like JSW Foundation and Supraja Foundation, NGOs like Spirulina Foundation, Bhoruka Charitable Trust, Pranati, Charitable Trust For Integrated Development, reputed research institutes like CFTRI, Mysuru, IHMR-Bengaluru, Vijayanagara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIIMS)-Ballari, Department of Social Studies, VSK University and management agency like IID, Bengaluru on board.

With 30,716 malnourished children (between the age group of 6 months to 6 years) and another 15,000 anaemic pregnant women, lactating mothers and adolescent girls being supplemented with Spirulina during a pilot Mission phase of three years, this was the single largest ‘mission’ against malnutrition conducted globally. A dramatic reduction in the levels of malnutrition was observed; up to a 42% reduction in the number of malnourished children during 2014-16 and a 45.3% reduction in 2016-17 trials.

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