In FY 2023-24, Chhattisgarh received Rs. 422.73 crore in CSR funds from 353 companies with Raipur receiving the lion’s share of CSR funds (Rs 110.42 cr). The top five spenders in the state include Jindal Steel and Power Limited (Rs 47.53 cr), South Eastern Coalfields Limited (Rs 26.78 cr), NMDC Limited (Rs 26.16 cr), Godawari Power and Ispat Limited (Rs 26.15 cr) and HDFC Bank Limited (Rs 25.68 cr).

The top three areas of focus for CSR initiatives in the state include Education (Rs. 155.43 crore), Healthcare (Rs 130.03 crore) and Rural Development (Rs. 89.43 crore).

Top recipient districts in Chhattisgarh

The top three districts that were recipients of CSR funds in Chhattisgarh were Raipur, Raigarh and Bilaspur which received Rs. 110.42 cr, Rs 107.77 cr and Rs 46.4 cr respectively.

Top CSR projects in Chhattisgarh

ACC Limited supporting Rural Healthcare in Chhattisgarh with Mobile Units

ACC, in partnership with the Adani Foundation, is supporting rural healthcare through its Mobile Health Unit (MHU) initiative at the Chilhati site in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh. Covering 13 panchayats and 16 villages, the programme benefits over 7,400 residents, providing doorstep medical services across a 20 km radius. The MHU visits 2-3 villages daily, offering diagnosis for conditions such as high blood pressure (471 cases) and diabetes (290 cases), often missed by local primary health centres.

Additionally, the CSR team organised an eye care camp across five villages, in collaboration with HelpAge India, delivering free check-ups, glasses and treatment to 972 individuals. The camp also screened 168 primary school students for eye flu. These initiatives underscore ACC and Adani Foundation’s dedication to addressing critical health challenges and creating healthier communities, ensuring rural populations have access to vital healthcare services.

CSR Support to Rural Livelihoods around Jamul, Chhattisgarh

ACC is dedicated to creating sustainable livelihoods in the communities where it operates. In collaboration with the Adani Foundation, ACC is enhancing dairy farming in villages near ACC Jamul. Through the Livestock Development Project (LDP), farmers benefit from sex-sorted semen (SSS) artificial insemination, increasing the likelihood of female calf births from 50% to 90%. This technology has significantly boosted farmers’ incomes. Success stories like those of Heelendra Sahu and Sudarshan Yadav highlight the transformative impact of this initiative on rural livelihoods, empowering farmers.

CSR of South Eastern Coalfields Limited

South Eastern Coalfields Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited – one of the largest government-owned coal producers in the world. SECL is one of the highest coal producing companies of India. The coal mines of SECL are spread across two states namely Chhatisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. SECL was the second largest CSR spender in Chhattisgarh in FY24.

SECL has planted a staggering 1,46,675 saplings across its operational areas in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Plantation drive was conducted in 8 districts of Chhattisgarh and 3 districts in Madhya Pradesh, covering an area of over 56 hectares. Additionally, the company distributed 25,000 saplings to communities residing near its mining areas.

This initiative was part of a nationwide plantation drive, launched in July 2024 by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, encompassing all coal PSUs across the country. The initiative also aligns with the centre’s ongoing “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign (One tree in the name of mother).

SECL had announced in July 2023 that it will invest Rs 169 crore for tree plantation in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh where it operates. The company aims to plant over 26 lakh saplings in Chhattisgarh and 12 lakh in Madhya Pradesh between 2023-24 and 2027-28. The plantation will be carried out for a period of five years with its subsequent maintenance of 4 years for each consecutive year of plantation.

SECL announced on 7th October that the company is inviting applications for free residential coaching of SECL’s Sushrut to prepare for National Entrance cum Eligibility Test (NEET) 2025. SECL provides free residential medical coaching to students of Class 12th under its CSR initiative, SECL’s Sushrut. The company mentors and provide coaching to students to help them prepare for the exam. The move is aimed to benefit students from poor economic background, especially in villages in coal belt areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Under the programme coaching will is provided to students in partnership with a Bilaspur-based private coaching institute. The program is residential with regular national-level test series and also includes lodging and boarding facilities.

CSR of Steel Authority of India

One of the largest steel-making companies in India and one of the Maharatnas of the country’s Central Public Sector Enterprises, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) is working to eradicate hunger, poverty and malnutrition in Chhattisgarh. The company, which was the 3rd highest CSR spender in Chhattisgarh in FY 2022-23, is also promoting healthcare including preventive healthcare in the state.

Twenty one villages in the periphery of Bhilai have been identified for adoption as model steel villages where SAIL Bhilai Steel Plant’s CSR Department is engaging in a number of sustainable activities such as empowering the rural folk, specially the women under the Swyamsiddha or self-employment project, providing basic infrastructure facilities development as well as activities aimed at providing school children opportunities to express their talent.

In 2007 and 2011, the Plant established two Bhilai Ispat Vikas Vidyalayas to provide free education to children from BPL families. The SAIL Bhilai Steel Plant also set up Ispat Kalyan Chikitsalaya for the extending medical treatment to economically backward section of society in the township and its periphery. The Plant also adopts tribal children every year, providing free residential education, accommodation and meals.

Since 2009, BSP has been supporting the government’s mid-day meal scheme by providing financial support to Akshaya Patra Foundation for providing mid-day meals in 176 government schools in Bhilai-Durg area.

Bhilai Ispat Siyan Sadan, a senior citizens’ home has been running since April 2010. This initiative of SAIL-BSP has been recognised by the Govt of India with Vyomshreshta Samman in 2016.

Bhilai Steel Plant has also been conducting SAIL-KHEL Mela since 2007 in association with Ramkrishna Mission Ashram Narayanpur- a mega sports event covering school going children of Rowghat Mines area.

CSR of NTPC for Education

A total of 31 Naveen Swami Atmanand School buildings in Chhattisgarh are undergoing renovation with the support of CSR funds. The initiative has been supported by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) through their Corporate Social Responsibility efforts. Reportedly, Rs 15.72 crore has been donated for the cause.

The project, aimed at creating conducive learning environment for students, focuses on upgradation of the school infrastructure. Efforts are on to refurbish the classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and other essential facilities, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience for the students.

The renovation work, which includes repairing roofs, floors, and sanitation facilities, is nearing completion. An allocated amount of approximately Rs. 50 lakh has been directed towards each school, enabling the comprehensive transformation of educational spaces.

Apart from structural enhancements, the initiative also encompasses the procurement of modern equipment and a diverse collection of books, enriching the academic resources available to students. This holistic approach aims to create an environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and academic excellence.

CSR of Ambuja Cements for Rural Development

Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of Adani Group, through its CSR arm, is working to address the critical water shortage in Magarway village in Baloda Bazaar-Bhatapara district. The villagers face significant challenges due to the dependency on the pond as their primary water source. The limited capacity of the pond led to water scarcity issues, impacting daily life, agriculture, and livestock. The community, recognizing the importance of the pond, sought its deepening to ensure a more reliable and sustainable water supply.

Ambuja Cements in collaboration with local authorities has implemented a comprehensive water conservation initiative including deepening of the local pond, which is a lifeline for Magarway village.

The company in a statement announced that its efforts have substantially enhanced water availability for nearly 500 residents, positively impacting their daily lives by providing sustainable access to water. Now, the pond’s capacity has been expanded to an impressive 3,606 cubic meters, with a profound impact on groundwater levels, resulting in a water supply for 6 to 8 months annually.

CSR of Quick Heal for Cyber Security

Quick Heal Technologies Limited, through its CSR arm – Quick Heal Foundation, unveiled a transformative initiative, “Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha – Earn & Learn”, in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh in Novermber, 2023. In collaboration with the Cyber Youth Development Association (CYDA), this programme aims to aims to contribute to the region’s cyber resilience, reducing the risk of cyber threats, and fostering a safer online environment in Rajnandgaon, which has been identified as an aspirational district. It has been ranked second in the baseline assessment for India’s 101 aspirational districts by NITI Aayog, with a score of 47.96 percent.

The core objective of the programme is to bring aspirational district talent to the mainstream, providing them with the opportunity to excel while enhancing cybersecurity awareness among the youth and the community in Rajnandgaon. Under the initiative, 40 dedicated student volunteers have been shortlisted, with 30 selected from Government Digvijay College, Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh and Government Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar College, Dongargaon, Chhattisgarh, while 10 from the community. These volunteers are undergoing comprehensive training led by CYDA’s master trainers, who have received expert guidance from the Quick Heal Foundation. The training encompasses cyber awareness sessions, capacity-building workshops, and personality development programmes.

CSR of Bharat Aluminium Company (BALCO)

Leading aluminium producing company owned by Vedanta Limited and the Government of India, Bharat Aluminium Company Ltd. (BALCO) was the 7th highest CSR spender in Chhattisgarh in FY 2022-23.

Project Connect aims to enhance the learning environment in government schools near the company’s area of operation by fostering a supportive environment that improves student grades, offers career counselling, and encourages employee volunteering. The project is currently being run in partnership with Sarthak Jan Vikas Sansthan. In FY’23 BALCO claims to have supported 2500 students from grades 9th to 12th through Regular classes in 6 Government Schools and Remedial classes at 3 Resource centers in SEMA (Science, English, Maths & Accountancy) subjects.

Project Mor Jal Mor Maati has started to ensure sustainable livelihood through integrated water and farming system. The project has been focusing on improving the surface water management with existing resources, augmenting irrigation facilities, equipping farmers with the latest farming techniques, and promoting multi-cropping to reduce the dependence on rainfall. It is also bringing farmers into the fold of animal husbandry, horticulture and non-timber forest produce, ensuring income generation round the year. During FY’23, 2400 Farmers reportedly benefitted and cumulatively brought 1000 acres of land under secured irrigation in 32 villages. Farmers were supported in different activities like, promotion of modern farming techniques, crop & livelihood diversification, water security and FPO development.

Project Unnati was initiated with a focus to empower and mobilise women into Self Help Groups (SHGs) and develop their capacities and skills for entrepreneurship. During FY’23, 44 New SHGs (Self Help Groups) were formed taking the total to 504 SHGs, engaging 5389 women members, claims BALCO.

Project Arogya is a comprehensive health initiative providing quality Primary health care services through Rural Health Posts with special emphasis on Maternal & Child health, particularly targeting the malnutrition and also awareness campaigns on HIV. During the year, the programme reportedly reached out to over 30,000 people through curative and preventive healthcare services.

CSR of National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC)

National Mineral Development Corporation Limited (NMDC), a Navratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, Government of India is the single largest producer of iron ore in India. It owns and operates highly mechanized iron ore mines in Chhattisgarh and Karnataka. The company was the third highest spender for CSR in Chhattisgarh in FY 2021-22. NMDC Limited is working to eradicate hunger, poverty and malnutrition in Chhattisgarh and promoting healthcare.

NMDC Limited operates Balika Shiksha Yojana and scholarship scheme in Bastar district and has been conducting Smart Classes to provide quality education in Dantewada Block.

‘Prayas – A Pursuit to Education’ is a Literacy and Education-based initiative that is nearly two decades old. A significant percentage of children residing in communities around NMDC Projects were not even having access to primary education due to lack of quality educational infrastructure in the region. We also noticed a high dropout rate among school-going children and a lack of access to technical/ professional courses. The prevalence of this difficult situation was more marked among the female student population, who had very few facilities to pursue higher education.

To help these children realise their dream, the CSR division launched the Prayas programme. ‘Astha Gurukul’ is a Residential School for children belonging to SC, ST & orphans. ‘Saksham’ is a school for differently-abled children at Dantewada. ‘Choo Lo Aasman’ lends Tutorial Support along with regular schooling from class 9th to 12th for Tribal students aspiring to appear in Professional Competitive Exams like IIT/ PET/PMT etc. ‘Ujjar’ is a scheme to help 100 bright students to pursue higher education. NMDC provides financial assistance of upto Rs. 75,000 per student, per year, for 4 years. ‘Lakshya’ provides coaching to unemployed youth to appear for job oriented competitive exams.

The programme ‘Kaushal – Skilling people’ is aimed at the emancipation of the backward communities residing around NMDC Project sites. The goal is to provide opportunities for local tribal youth and women in order to gain meaningful employment and for livelihood generation through skill development.

CSR of HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank Parivartan, the flagship CSR programme of the bank, organized the first edition of its mega rural livelihood summit Titled ‘Chhattisgarh Rural Livelihood Summit 2023’ in Raipur, Chhattisgarh under the initiative STREE (Social & Transformative Rural Economic Empowerment) in August. The initiative aims to benefit over 120,000 women farmers across 6 states, including Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal and Assam. The Bank partnered with Grant Thornton Bharat LLP and Society for Development Alternatives for this initiative.

The summit provided a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge and experience in promoting rural livelihoods, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), government initiatives, and ecosystem development. The initiative would reach 27,000 beneficiaries, including 20 women led FPOs, 10,000 FPO members, and 17,000 non-FPO members in Chhattisgarh.

HDFC Bank Parivartan has five pillars: Rural Development, Promotion of Education, Skill Training & Livelihood Enhancement, Healthcare & Hygiene, and Financial Literacy & Inclusion. The Bank has spent Rs 820.89 crore in FY 23 on CSR initiatives, benefiting more than 9.93 crore beneficiaries across 27 states, as per an announcement.

Waste to Health CSR Programme by Vedanta

Vedanta Aluminium & Power Business is fostering hundreds of MSMEs in remote rural areas with its ‘waste to wealth’ programmes. Waste to wealth projects forms a key pillar of Vedanta’s sustainability agenda that is centred around ‘Zero Harm, Zero Waste and Zero Discharge’. In the Korba district of Chhattisgarh, the company is running a programme whereby it is fostering local micro-enterprises in fly-ash brick making.

The company supports over a hundred brick manufacturing MSMEs situated around and beyond its areas of operations with fly ash and transporting it free of cost to their doorsteps, amounting to nearly 5 lakh metric tonnes per annum. In addition, the company also provides the know-how and training on manufacturing these bricks in partnership with technical institutes, thus creating employment avenues as well as promoting a circular economy.

The beneficiaries of this project are underprivileged villagers who would otherwise depend on cattle rearing, subsistence agriculture or would migrate to other states to work as construction labourers for their livelihood.

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साउथ ईस्टर्न कोलफील्ड्स लिमिटेड (South Eastern Coalfields Limited – एसईसीएल) ने विशेष अभियान 5.0 के तहत स्वच्छता और पर्यावरण संरक्षण के क्षेत्र में शानदार काम किया है। कोल इंडिया लिमिटेड की यह कंपनी न सिर्फ कोयला उत्पादन में आगे है, बल्कि अब समाज और पर्यावरण की दिशा में भी नई मिसालें कायम कर रही है।

SECL CSR Initiatives: कचरे से कमाया धन पहल

एशिया की सबसे बड़ी कोयला खदान गेवरा में एसईसीएल ने अपशिष्ट से धन यानी Waste to Wealth नाम की पहल शुरू की है। यहां कचरे को वैज्ञानिक तरीके से अलग करके ठोस और द्रव संसाधन प्रबंधन केंद्र (एसएलआरएम) में उसका पुनः उपयोग किया जा रहा है। जैविक कचरे से खाद बनाई जाती है, जिससे मिट्टी की गुणवत्ता बेहतर होती है और कंपनी के वृक्षारोपण अभियान को मदद मिलती है। यह पहल सचमुच “कचरे को खजाने में बदलने” की सोच को हकीकत में बदल रही है।

कबाड़ से कलाकृति

गेवरा की केंद्रीय कार्यशाला में पुराने लोहे-लोहा और मशीन के बेकार हिस्सों से सुंदर कलाकृतियां बनाई जा रही हैं। इनमें रोबोट सैनिक, एस-400 मिसाइल, ब्रह्मोस मिसाइल मॉडल और कोयला खनिक की मूर्ति जैसी रचनाएं शामिल हैं। ये कलाकृतियां न सिर्फ देखने में सुंदर हैं, बल्कि यह संदेश भी देती हैं कि बेकार समझी जाने वाली चीज़ों से भी कला और स्थायित्व संभव है।

महिलाओं ने संभाली जिम्मेदारी

SECL ने कोरबा में पहली बार महिलाओं द्वारा संचालित स्पेयर पार्ट्स स्टोर यूनिट की शुरुआत की है। यह कदम महिला सशक्तिकरण की दिशा में एक बड़ा बदलाव माना जा रहा है। अब महिलाएं न सिर्फ प्रबंधन का काम संभाल रही हैं, बल्कि तकनीकी क्षेत्र में भी अपनी भूमिका निभा रही हैं।

आधुनिक सफाई व्यवस्था

एसईसीएल ने अपने नौ ऑपरेशनल क्षेत्रों में 20 मैकेनिकल रोड स्वीपिंग मशीनें लगाई हैं, जिससे सड़कों पर धूल कम हो और वातावरण स्वच्छ रहे। इसके साथ ही कॉलोनियों और कोयला परिवहन मार्गों की सफाई अब पूरी तरह आधुनिक मशीनों से की जा रही है।

स्वच्छता और स्वास्थ्य पर जोर

कंपनी ने अपने कर्मचारियों और आसपास के इलाकों में रहने वाले लोगों के लिए स्वास्थ्य जांच और कल्याण शिविर आयोजित किए। इसके अलावा “स्वच्छता ही सेवा” अभियान के तहत अरपा नदी किनारे और अन्य सामुदायिक जगहों पर सफाई अभियान भी चलाए गए। सफाई मित्रों को सम्मानित करके एसईसीएल ने यह संदेश दिया कि स्वच्छता में सबका योगदान जरूरी है। SECL की ये पहल दिखाती हैं कि अगर इच्छाशक्ति और योजना सही हो, तो उद्योग भी पर्यावरण संरक्षण, महिला सशक्तिकरण और सामाजिक विकास में बड़ा योगदान दे सकते हैं। ‘विशेष अभियान 5.0’ के तहत एसईसीएल ने साबित किया है कि कोयला कंपनी सिर्फ ऊर्जा का नहीं, बल्कि “सकारात्मक बदलाव” का भी स्रोत बन सकती है।

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In the Financial Year 2023, Madhya Pradesh received an impressive sum of Rs. 656.42 Crores in CSR funds from 717 companies. The top three areas of focus for CSR programs in Madhya Pradesh during FY 23 were Health, Education, and Rural Development, with expenditures of Rs. 253.01 Crores, Rs. 227.03 Crores, and Rs. 87.68 Crores, respectively.

The top spenders in the state include M.P. Agrotonics Limited (Rs. 112.37 Crores), Northern Coalfields Limited (Rs. 84.65 Crores), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (Rs. 44.43 Crores). These companies have shown their dedication to effecting positive change within Madhya Pradesh’s communities.

Top CSR Projects in Madhya Pradesh

55 Villages in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, get Solar and LED Lights through CSR

Signify has brightened up 55 villages in Chhatarpur District, Madhya Pradesh under its ‘Har Gaon Roshan’ Corporate Social Responsibility program. Impacting over 70,000 lives, this initiative, empowers women safety, promotes tourism, enhances security, and socio-economic development through sustainable lighting solutions. The project is executed in partnership with Haritika, NGO, which includes the installation of 2000 energy efficient LED streetlights, 700 solar home lighting system, and 100 solar streetlights across these tribal villages, ensuring the safety of the residents and tourists.

Mobile Medical Vans under Project Arogya – CSR of GAIL

In March this year, four Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) were flagged off at Satna, Madhya Pradesh under the CSR Project of GAIL (India) Ltd. The MMUs were flagged off in a ceremonial program held at Satna, Madhya Pradesh.

The MMUs have been flagged off as a part of Project Arogya – a Flagship CSR Project of GAIL (India) Ltd. Under this project, free primary healthcare services will be provided at the doorstep of the underprivileged communities in the area. Through the qualified medical team in the MMU, free medical services and medicines are provided to these communities who otherwise have limited access to the established Public Health Care system.

CSR in Madhya Pradesh Govt School to enhance digital learning

Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), in partnership with Y4D Foundation, installed two advanced digital smart boards at Government Kanya Higher Secondary School, Banda, Sagar District in October last year. The initiative was inaugurated by Shri Virendra Singh Lambardar, Member of Legislative Assembly, Banda, Sagar District, Madhya Pradesh.

This initiative is part of HCCB’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, focused on enhancing the educational experience for students in the Sagar district. By integrating technology into the classroom, the smart boards aim to foster an interactive, engaging, and dynamic learning environment. The digital smart boards will serve as an essential tool in modernising the classroom experience, enabling teachers to offer more interactive lessons and enhancing students’ ability to grasp complex concepts through visual and digital aids.

NCL’s Community Health CSR initiative in Singrauli

Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL), the Singrauli-based wholly owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited has launched a CSR initiative named ‘Charak’ in December. The Community Health initiative is aimed to benefit residents of coal mine areas of NCL’s headquarter Singrauli, serving as a ray of hope for people suffering from life threatening ailments. Residents of MP’s Singrauli and Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra districts having annual family income below Rs. 8 Lakhs from all sources will be eligible for benefit under this scheme.

Under the ‘Charak’ scheme, free treatment will be provided for include Malignancy, TB and related complications, HIV and related complications, Cardiovascular diseases, Organ Transplant, Burns with contractures leading to permanent disability, Liver disorders, Sudden hearing loss, Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), Acute Surgical Emergencies, Neurological Disorders, Neurovascular disorders, Accidental trauma, Serious handicap, Multisystem disorders, Connective Tissue disorders, and Sudden vision loss etc.

CSR of NMDC in Khandwa district

Under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, NMDC, India’s largest iron ore producer has extended remarkable support to the tribal communities in the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, addressing critical infrastructure and welfare needs. NMDC has recently handed over essential resources to the district administration, including an air-conditioned mortuary vehicle for Khalwa Vikashkhand and two Vessel Banks, complete with utensils and kitchenware, for community use in Khalwa and Harsud Vikashkhand. The vessel banks, equipped with high-quality utensils and kitchenware are aimed at supporting large-scale community events and ceremonies.

Axis Bank Foundation’s rural livelihood project in Madhya Pradesh

In October 2024, Axis Bank Foundation and Action for Social Advancement announced the launch of the Sustainable Livelihood Programme in Madhya Pradesh with an aim to enhance livelihood of 60,000 rural households, predominantly small landholders who belong to tribal and marginalized groups. The programme will span over 350 villages across Jhabua, Alirajpur, Badwani, Shahdol, Anuppur, and Umaria districts. This 5-year long initiative aims to empower the rural communities in the region with comprehensive livelihood enhancement strategies focused on agriculture, natural resource development, and community institution building.

Key highlights of the programme include –
– Enhancing income generating opportunities for 60,000 rural households through improved agriculture practices, development of natural resources (land, water, trees), and promotion of horticulture

– Building strong agricultural value chains by expanding farmers’ collectives and developing market intelligence for sustainable and organic products such as cotton, with enhanced technology-based traceability systems

– Strengthening community institutions, including SHGs, Producers’ Groups, and Gram Panchayats, to ensure sustainable practices and governance

– Facilitating convergence with government schemes for financial resources and technical support to drive long-term rural development

Flipkart’s CSR to support women entrepreneurs in Madhya Pradesh

Homegrown e-commerce platform Flipkart partnered with National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and Policy Watch India Foundation (PWIF, a Delhi-based think tank) in September to transform the lives of women entrepreneurs of self-help groups (SHG) in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh.

As part of this initiative, a workshop to promote women’s livelihoods was organised. Women of self-help groups from different areas of Dhar received training at the workshop. Some also narrated their success stories, inspiring everyone in attendance.

Flipkart, through its Samarth program in partnership with NRLM, is training women of SHGs to leverage online platforms to sell handmade products so that they can widen their network and reach marketplaces beyond their immediate localities. The partnership between NRLM and Flipkart is a mission to bring change in the lives of rural communities. It is driven by the belief that e-commerce can bring positive change in rural India while preserving traditions and empowering women.

CSR of SECL for Tree plantation

In July 2023, South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited announced that will invest a whopping Rs. 169 crore for tree plantation Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, the states in which it operates. The plantation will be carried out over a period of five years from FY 2023-24 to 2027-28 with its subsequent maintenance of 4 years for each consecutive year of plantation.

For execution of the project, the company has signed Memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Chhattisgarh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam and Madhya Pradesh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam. As per the MoU, SECL will spend Rs. 131.52 crore in Chhattisgarh and Rs. 38.11 crore in Madhya Pradesh for enhancing greenery in the central Indian states.

Six to twelve months old (polypot) plants will be used for the plantation work. Among the saplings that will be planted are different species including fruit bearing trees like Jamun, Imli, Bel, Mango, Sitaphal etc., and medicinal/ herbal plants like Neem, Amla, Karanj etc.

In addition to these, trees with high timber value such as Teak, Sal, Bamboo, Babool, Sissoo, Safed Sirus and ornamental or avenue plants like Gulmohar, Kachnar, Amaltas, Peepal, Jharul etc. will also be planted. Keeping in view the needs of the local communities, species of plants will be selected while paying heed to suggestions from local villagers.

CSR for Education – SECL ke Sushrut

SECL provides free residential medical coaching to students of Class 12th under its CSR initiative, “SECL ke Sushrut” or “SECL’s Sushrut”. The company mentors and provide coaching to students to help them prepare for the national medical entrance exam – NEET. The move aims to benefit students from poor economic background, especially in villages in coal belt areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Under the programme coaching is provided in partnership with a Bilaspur-based private coaching institute. The program is residential equipped with food and boarding facilities for students who have to sit for regular national-level test series.

Currently, children from Coal mining areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are getting free residential NEET coaching in Bilaspur under the SECL’s Sushrut CSR programme.

Rural Electrification – CSR of Tata Power

In the remote corners of Madhya Pradesh, where darkness once shrouded homes and villages after sunset, Tata Power’s CSR project is illuminating lives and igniting possibilities. Focusing on rural electrification, this initiative brings the gift of light and power to places where electricity was a distant dream.

Tata Power recognizes that access to electricity is not just about convenience; it’s a catalyst for economic growth and improved quality of life. The project involves the extension of electricity infrastructure to remote villages, enabling households and businesses to access reliable and affordable power.

The impact of rural electrification extends far and wide. It enhances the quality of life by providing better lighting, reducing indoor air pollution from traditional lamps, and enabling the use of electronic appliances. For businesses, it opens doors to new opportunities, whether it’s extending working hours, setting up small enterprises, or accessing digital technology.

In rural Madhya Pradesh, where agriculture is a significant livelihood, electricity plays a vital role in irrigation and farm operations. It boosts agricultural productivity, contributing to food security and rural economic development.

Tata Power’s commitment to rural electrification is more than just a CSR project; it’s a beacon of progress in the lives of Madhya Pradesh’s rural residents. It’s about bringing the benefits of modernity and opportunity to those who were once in the shadows.

Skill Development for Youth – Larsen & Toubro (L&T)

For the youth of Madhya Pradesh, L&T’s CSR project is a beacon of hope and opportunity. Focused on skill development, this initiative equips young individuals with the job-ready skills needed to secure gainful employment and pursue fulfilling careers.

L&T has established vocational training centers and skill development programs across the state. These centers offer training in various fields, from technical skills like welding and electrical work to soft skills like communication and teamwork. By providing comprehensive training, L&T ensures that the youth are not only job-ready but also equipped to excel in their chosen fields.

What sets this project apart is its emphasis on employability. L&T doesn’t just provide training; it actively collaborates with local industries and businesses to create a bridge between trained individuals and job opportunities. This approach fosters a direct path to employment, reducing the gap between skills acquisition and securing a livelihood.

The impact of L&T’s skill development project extends beyond individual success stories. It contributes to the overall economic growth of Madhya Pradesh by equipping its youth with the skills needed to participate in the workforce actively. By empowering the youth, L&T is not just investing in their futures but also in the prosperity of the state.

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SECL operates 67 coal mines, of which 41 coal mines lies in Chhatisgarh, while the rest are situated in Madhya Pradesh. Among these 67 coal mines, 46 mines are worked by underground method of mining while the rest are opencast mines. For effective administrative control and operation, the coal mines at SECL have been divided into three groups viz Central India coalfields (CIC), Korba coalfields and Mand Raigarh Coalfields.

CSR Spending in FY 2023-24

Chhattisgarh-based Coal India subsidiary SECL has spent more than Rs 300 crores via CSR on various sectors in the state of Chhattisgarh between 2018-19 and 2023-24.

The company has undertaken CSR initiatives in a wide range of areas to create greater impact in the lives of people. In the past 5 years, the company has utilised its CSR funds mostly focusing on environmental sustainability, education, healthcare, rural development projects, sanitation and providing support to flagship government programs like Swachh Vidyalaya Abhiyan, Swachh Bharat Mission and Clean Ganga Mission among others.

In the FY 2023-24, SECL spent Rs 53.07 crore towards CSR activities mainly focused around the areas of its operation in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Launch of the SECL CSR App

In July 2023, SECL launched a CSR app for better implementation of various social welfare programs and activities carried out under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and to make the same accessible to the public. The CSR App can be accessed through the link available on the SECL website.

The App was launched by Gajanan Deorao Asole, Part Time Non-Official Director and Chairman, CSR Committee, at the 338th SECL Board Meeting held on Friday, July 14 at New Delhi. The launch of this CSR app is expected to add more fairness and transparency in the CSR efforts of the company through digitization.

Through the app, people will be able to get information related to the annual expenditure incurred by SECL on CSR activities, total number of activities carried out, last year’s performance, photo-videos of activities etc. Along with this, the facility of giving suggestions and feedback has also been provided in the app.

Going Net Zero

South Eastern Coalfields Ltd has announced that it will be developing rooftop and ground mounted solar power projects of 600 MW capacity in the coming years as part of its strategy to expand and diversify its business and achieve the “Net Zero Energy” goal. The strategy is in line with the larger goal of “Panchamrit” announced by India’s Prime Minster Narendra Modi at CoP-26 to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2070. SECL, the Miniratna PSU, is planning to develop the above projects at a cost of more than Rs.1000 crores.

Solar power projects of more than 180 MW are already in various phases of development in the operational areas of SECL spread over Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The Indian coal major has recently commissioned rooftop solar projects of 580 kWp capacity in Johilla, Jamuna-Kotma and Kusmunda Areas. At Johilla Area, the commissioned capacity is about 280 kWp. Solar panels have been installed at Administrative Building GM office, SECL-run Kendriya Vidyalaya, Regional Hospital and at Area’s Guesthouse. The project will generate about 4,20,000 units of electricity saving about Rs 21 lakh annually in power expenditure.

The largest two solar projects under implementation are of 40 MW capacity each. A 40 MW ground mounted, grid connected solar PV plant is being developed on company’s own land in Bhatgaon and Bishrampur areas located in Chattisgarh’s Surajpur district. Plans are on to install another 40 MW ground mounted solar PV plant in Johilla area in Madhya Pradesh.

Coal India Ltd has set an ambitious target of achieving net-zero status by installing 3000 MW capacity renewable energy projects by 2026 as part of a broader plan to reduce the company’s carbon footprint and ensure sustainability. SECL contributed around one-fourth of CIL’s total coal production in FY 2022-23. It is promoting renewable energy to reduce the carbon footprint of coal mining and move towards the goal of net zero carbon emissions.

CSR initiatives of SECL

Healthcare

SECL’s area of operation being Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the PSU focuses on providing healthcare facilities to the underprivileged population through CSR. SECL has provided CT scan and MRI Machines to Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences, Bilaspur, and a CT scan machine to Government Medical College, Ambikapur.

SECL through its CSR allocated Rs 4.88 Crore to enhance medical infrastructure in 15 districts of Madhya Pradesh, which made a profound impact during the intense second wave of COVID-19. The installation of digital X-ray machines and portable units significantly improved diagnostic capabilities, enabling prompt treatment initiation and curbing virus spread. This initiative benefited the rural and tribal folks of the respective districts. By providing these machines for the remote tribal and rural district hospitals, the SECL has ensured better access to diagnostic services. Additionally, the establishment of PSA Oxygen Plants addressed critical oxygen needs, reducing mortality rates.

SECL Ki Dhadkan

South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of heart surgeries for 20 children suffering from congenital heart disease (CHD) in October 2024. This effort is part of “SECL Ki Dhadkan,” a vital initiative aimed at providing affordable, life-saving cardiac care to economically disadvantaged families in SECL’s operational coalfield areas across Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.

SECL Ki Dhadkan, an extension of Coal India’s overarching CSR initiative ‘Nanha Sa Dil’, focuses on ensuring that children from SECL’s project-affected regions can access the necessary medical interventions for CHD. The project supports early diagnosis, screening, and treatment of CHD in communities that often lack resources for specialized healthcare.

The initiative primarily benefits children from SECL’s operational areas, which include the districts of Raigarh, Korba, Bilaspur, Korea, Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Surajpur, Balrampur, and Sarguja in Chhattisgarh, and Anuppur, Shahdol, and Umaria in Madhya Pradesh.

As part of this initiative, SECL has collaborated with the Shri Satya Sai Health & Education Trust in Raipur, with all surgeries performed at the Shri Satya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital, Raipur. The initiative is particularly beneficial for families in tribal and rural areas who face severe economic constraints, removing financial barriers to critical treatment.

With this initiative, SECL demonstrates its commitment to uplifting marginalized communities by offering life-saving interventions that ensure equal access to essential healthcare. ‘SECL Ki Dhadkan’ stands as a testament to SECL’s mission to foster sustainable development and address healthcare inequities in its operational regions.

Tree plantation

SECL recently announced that it has planted a staggering 1,46,675 saplings across its operational areas in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Plantation drive was conducted in 8 districts of Chhattisgarh and 3 districts in Madhya Pradesh, covering an area of over 56 hectares. Additionally, the company distributed 25,000 saplings to communities residing near its mining areas.

This initiative was part of a nationwide plantation drive, launched in July 2024 by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, encompassing all coal PSUs across the country. The initiative also aligns with the centre’s ongoing “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign (One tree in the name of mother).

In July 2023, SECL announced that it has decided to invest a whopping Rs. 169 crores for tree plantation Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, the states in which it operates. The plantation will be carried out for a period of five years from FY 2023-24 to 2027-28 with its subsequent maintenance of 4 years for each consecutive year of plantation.

For execution of the project, the company has signed Memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Chhattisgarh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam and Madhya Pradesh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam. As per the MoU, SECL will spend Rs. 131.52 crore in Chhattisgarh and Rs. 38.11 crore in Madhya Pradesh for enhancing greenery in the central Indian states.

Six to twelve months old (polypot) plants will be used for the plantation work. Among the saplings that will be planted are different species including fruit bearing trees like Jamun, Imli, Bel, Mango, Sitaphal etc., and medicinal/ herbal plants like Neem, Amla, Karanj etc.

In addition to these, trees with high timber value such as Teak, Sal, Bamboo, Babool, Sissoo, Safed Sirus and ornamental or avenue plants like Gulmohar, Kachnar, Amaltas, Peepal, Jharul etc. will also be planted. Keeping in view the needs of the local communities, species of plants will be selected while paying heed to suggestions from local villagers.

Education

The company has taken initiatives to develop education infrastructure in government schools in Chhattisgarh by renovating and rebuilding schools, building hostels, developing smart-classes and providing desk and benches for the students.

Smart-classes in Government schools of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

SECL implemented smart class-room solutions for improving learning outcomes and education quality through all-in-device, in First Phase schools i.e. 86 Govt. Schools located within 25 Kms from SECL establishments of Madhya Pradesh’s Umaria District under CSR Activities of SECL Johilla Area. The purpose is to enhance opportunities for education and community development.

With SECL’s CSR support, smart classes have been set-up in 500 government schools of Chhattisgarh’s Korba district at an expenditure of about Rs 9 crore through the District Collector of Korba. The beneficiaries are mainly children belonging to tribal areas and underprivileged background. At least 113 smart classes have been developed through the district administration Raigarh in government schools built within 25 km radius of SECL’s office in Raigarh district.

Apart from this, 113 smart-class facilities have been developed in schools in Raigarh, Dharamjaigarh, and Kharsia tehsils of Raigarh district.

SECL ke Sushrut – Free residential coaching for NEET

In October this year, SECL announced on social media that they are inviting applications for free residential coaching of SECL’s Sushrut 2024 to prepare for National Entrance cum Eligibility Test (NEET) 2025.

SECL provides free residential medical coaching to students of Class 12th under its CSR initiative, “SECL ke Sushrut”. The company will mentor and provide coaching to students to help them prepare for the national medical entrance exam – NEET.

The move aims to benefit students from poor economic background, especially in villages in coal belt areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Under the programme coaching is provided to a batch of students in partnership with a Bilaspur-based private coaching institute. The program is residential with regular national-level test series and mentoring. This also includes lodging and boarding facilities.

Empowering the specially abled and youths

For empowering the specially abled or Divyangjans, the company has built a Skill Development Training Centre with a 100-bed hostel in Bilaspur.

With a focus on skill development and making India’s youth job ready, the coal major has undertaken training programmes for around 1000 youths though Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology (CIPET) Korba.

Rural development

The company is taking up projects to develop rural areas in Chhattisgarh through CSR. It has built roads for faster communication, pipelines to supply water from the mines to adjacent villages which face water scarcity, and constructed toilets. SECL has also implemented and supported projects in the areas of Drinking water, Livelihood enhancement projects etc for villages.

The post SECL CSR Report FY 24: South Eastern Coalfields Limited focuses on heart health, NEET coaching and tree plantation appeared first on The CSR Journal.

“With its inclusion in the DBT portal, ‘SECL Ke Sushrut’ is set to ensure greater efficiency, transparency, and accessibility, allowing eligible students to avail themselves of coaching support with ease. This development aligns with SECL’s ongoing efforts to enhance its social impact while reinforcing its commitment to the educational aspirations of youth in and around its operational areas,” reads an announcement by the Ministry of Coal.

What is Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) portal

The DBT initiative, launched by the Government of India, aims to reform the delivery of benefits and subsidies by directly transferring funds to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, minimizing leakages, and ensuring effective utilization of resources. At present, the DBT portal features approximately 325 schemes from 55 ministries, covering diverse sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and social welfare.

What is SECL Ke Sushrut

Started in 2023, ‘SECL Ke Sushrut’ is a flagship educational initiative under SECL’s CSR programmes, designed to provide free medical coaching to 40 students preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). The scheme aims to support meritorious and underprivileged students from the coal belt regions of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, equipping them with the necessary resources and guidance to pursue careers in the medical field.

In the first batch of the programme, 39 out of 40 students successfully qualified for NEET 2024. Among them, 11 students secured admission in MBBS course, 2 gained admission in BDS, 2 were admitted to BAMS, 2 got admission in BPTH and 2 were selected for Veterinary courses in Government Colleges across Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.

South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL)

SECL is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited. It is one of the largest government-owned coal producers in the world. SECL is one of the highest coal producing companies of India. The coal mines of SECL are spread across the central Indian states of Chhatisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, hence the company’s CSR activities focus on the underprivileged people residing in these states.

SECL operates 67 coal mines, of which 41 coal mines lies in Chhatisgarh, while the rest are situated in Madhya Pradesh. Among these 67 coal mines, 46 mines are worked by underground method of mining while the rest are opencast mines. For effective administrative control and operation, the coal mines at SECL have been divided into three groups viz Central India coalfields (CIC), Korba coalfields and Mand Raigarh Coalfields.

SECL’s CSR Spending in FY 2023-24

Chhattisgarh-based Coal India subsidiary SECL has spent more than Rs 300 crores via CSR on various sectors in the state of Chhattisgarh between 2018-19 and 2023-24. The company has undertaken CSR initiatives in a wide range of areas to create greater impact in the lives of people. In the past 5 years, the company has utilised its CSR funds mostly focusing on environmental sustainability, education, healthcare, rural development projects, sanitation and providing support to flagship government programs like Swachh Vidyalaya Abhiyan, Swachh Bharat Mission and Clean Ganga Mission among others.

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CMD Dashboard: A Unified Platform for Task Monitoring and Collaboration

SECL’s CMD Dashboard is a comprehensive online platform designed to monitor various tasks and projects across SECL’s headquarters and operational areas. The dashboard enables users to raise requirements with any department and track their requests in real-time. It provides an overview of new, in-progress, and delayed tasks, fostering greater transparency, collaboration, and efficiency across SECL’s inter-company operations.

Digital Land Acquisition Process with LAMS

SECL has also digitalized its land acquisition process through the Land Acquisition Management System (LAMS), which simplifies and expedites the traditionally complex land acquisition procedures. Notably, Khodri village, under the Kusmunda megaproject, has become one of the first villages to complete an end-to-end digital land acquisition using LAMS.

Abhimanyu E-Learning Platform: Fostering a Culture of Knowledge and Skill Development

Following the successful launch of the Abhimanyu E-magazine last year, which promoted knowledge sharing among SECL employees, SECL is now introducing the Abhimanyu E-learning Platform. This platform offers employees an online space for collective learning, knowledge-sharing and skill development enhancing their professional development.

Online Grievance Redressal: Enhancing Citizen-Centric Services

In line with Special Campaign 4.0’s focus on citizen-centric practices, SECL is proactively advancing its online grievance redressal systems. With no pending grievances over 30 days, the company has streamlined its complaint resolution process, ensuring quicker redressal.

Driving Digital Transformation with In-House Web Apps

SECL has also developed various in-house web applications to drive its digital transformation. Key apps include CSR app, which tracks corporate social responsibility initiatives; Chirayu app, which facilitates seamless medical referrals and the Vidhik app, which provides an overview of legal matters. These platforms reflect SECL’s commitment to creating tailor-made, efficient digital solutions that meet the unique needs of its workforce and operations.

Through these initiatives, SECL is advancing its digital push, contributing to the overall vision of a digitally empowered Coal India. Special Campaign 4.0 has been a catalyst in SECL’s journey toward greater innovation, transparency, and operational excellence.

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

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This initiative was part of a nationwide plantation drive, launched in July 2024 by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, encompassing all coal PSUs across the country. The initiative also aligns with the centre’s ongoing “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign (One tree in the name of mother).

Meanwhile SECL on Monday announced on social media that they are inviting applications for free residential coaching of SECL’s Sushrut 2024 to prepare for NEET 2025.

SECL to invest Rs 169 crore for tree plantation

SECL had announced in July last year that it will invest Rs 169 crore for tree plantation in the states of in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh where it operates. The company aims to plant over 26 lakh saplings in Chhattisgarh and 12 lakh in Madhya Pradesh between 2023-24 and 2027-28. The plantation will be carried out for a period of five years with its subsequent maintenance of 4 years for each consecutive year of plantation.

For execution of the project, Memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between SECL and Chhattisgarh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam (CGRVVN) and between SECL and Madhya Pradesh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam (MPRVVN). As per the MoU, SECL will spend Rs. 131.52 crore in Chhattisgarh and Rs. 38.11 crore in Madhya Pradesh for enhancing greenery in the central Indian states.

As part of its ongoing afforestation efforts, SECL has also adopted the Japanese Miyawaki technique, which promotes rapid green cover development. A pilot project has already been launched using this method over two hectares near the Gevra coal mine area. Since its inception, SECL has planted over 3 crore saplings across its operational coal belts.

SECL invites applications for NEET coaching

SECL on Monday announced on social media that they are inviting applications for free residential coaching of SECL’s Sushrut 2024 to prepare for National Entrance cum Eligibility Test (NEET) 2025. SECL provides free residential medical coaching to students of Class 12th under its CSR initiative, SECL’s Sushrut. The company mentors and provide coaching to students to help them prepare for the exam. The move is aimed to benefit students from poor economic background, especially in villages in coal belt areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Under the programme coaching will is provided to students in partnership with a Bilaspur-based private coaching institute. The program is residential with regular national-level test series and also includes lodging and boarding facilities.

Eligibility

Students must clear the cutoff of the test to be conducted for entrance.

Student must obtain minimum 60 % marks in the 12th Board examination (CBSE/CG Board/MP Board/ICSE) and eligible for appearing in NEET as per the eligibility criteria of NEET-2025.

Student must be domicile of Chhattisgarh or Madhya Pradesh.

Student should be a resident of Project Affected Villages & Nearby Villages (Other than SECL employees) located within 25 KM radius of SECL Establishment or the students should have appeared or passed 12th Class exam from the School, which is located within 25 KM radius of SECL Establishment in the Operating Districts of Korba, Raigarh, Koriya, Surguja, Surajpur, Balrampur & Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur Districts of Chhattisgarh & Umaria, Annuppur & Shahdol Districts of Madhya Pradesh.

The Gross Income of the Parents/Guardians should not be more than ₹ 8,00,000/- (Rupees Eight lakhs per Annum).

The wards & dependent of SECL Employees are not eligible under this scheme.

For more details visit SECL.

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South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited. It is one of the largest government-owned coal producers in the world and one of the highest coal producing companies of India. The coal mines of SECL are spread across the central Indian states of Chhatisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, hence the company’s CSR activities focus on the underprivileged people residing in these states. The above initiative is an attempt by thwe PSU to promote sustainable development and the educational needs of less privileged communities.

Recently, SECL’s Independent Director Dr. Shyam Agarwal visited the area to inspect the under construction schools and hostel in Dindori district. He was accompanied by SECL’s Director (Finance) G. Srinivasan and other representatives from the organisation.

“Expressing gratitude for the schools and hostel being created by SECL, officials at the Tribal Welfare Center appreciated this significant CSR activity and highlighted the positive impact that will have on the tribal community in the region,” the coal PSU announced on social media.

CSR of SECL for Education

Popular CSR initiatives by SECL aimed at improving education include the following:

SECL ke Sushrut – Free residential coaching for NEET

SECL provides free residential medical coaching to students of Class 12th under its CSR initiative, “SECL ke Sushrut” or “SECL’s Sushrut”. The company mentors and provide coaching to students to help them prepare for the national medical entrance exam – NEET. The move aims to benefit students from poor economic background, especially in villages in coal belt areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Under the programme coaching is provided in partnership with a Bilaspur-based private coaching institute. The program is residential equipped with food and boarding facilities for students who have to sit for regular national-level test series.

Currently, 40 children from Coal mining areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are getting free residential NEET coaching in Bilaspur under the SECL’s Sushrut CSR programme.

Smart-classes in Government schools of Chhattisgarh

With SECL’s CSR support, smart classes have been set-up in 500 government schools of Korba district at an expenditure of about Rs 9 crore through the District Collector of Korba. The beneficiaries are mainly children belonging to tribal areas and underprivileged background. At least 113 smart classes have been developed through the district administration Raigarh in government schools built within 25 km radius of SECL’s office in Raigarh district. Apart from this, 83 smart-class facilities have been developed in schools in Raigarh, Dharamjaigarh, and Kharsia tehsils of Raigarh district.

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According to UNICEF, High levels of malnutrition (38.4% children are stunted), poor learning outcomes (only 42.5% children in grade three can read a grade one text), vaccine preventable diseases and child labour persist.

India has the largest adolescent population in the world, 253 million, and every fifth person is between 10 to 19 years. India stands to benefit socially, politically and economically if this large number of adolescents are safe, healthy, educated and equipped with information and life skills to support the country’s continued development.

Government bodies and CSR of private companies and PSUs could turn things around with targeted and strategic interventions. On Children’s Day 2023, we present the top CSR projects that are aimed at improving the lives of children in rural areas and urban slums, and in effect, the future of our nation and the world. These include supporting healthcare, education, nutrition and other needs of underprivileged children in different parts of India.

Coal India Limited’s Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana

Fortis Healthcare has joined hands with Coal India Limited (CIL) to treat underprivileged children suffering from thalassemia, under CIL’s flagship CSR Initiative ‘Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana’. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for this partnership was signed on July 28th 2023 at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, in the presence of Renu Chaturvedi, General Manager (CSR), Coal India, Shobha Tuli, Secretary, Thalassemics India, Anil Vinayak, Group COO, Fortis Healthcare, Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Fortis Gurugram and other senior dignitaries from Fortis.
In 2017, Coal India had launched ‘Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana’ to support the treatment of underprivileged children affected by Thalassemia. Later in 2020 Aplastic Anemia was also added under the programme.

As per the MoU, financial assistance of up to Rs. 10 lakhs will be provided by Coal India Limited to eligible patients for bone marrow transplants and the treatment can be done at Fortis Hospital, Gurugram. Fortis Memorial Research Institute, has one of the largest and most comprehensive BMT centres in the country with an experienced team of nearly 20 doctors, who have expertise in treatment of all kinds of blood disorders and also perform complicated Bone Marrow Transplants.

Gland Pharma’s Free Breakfast Programme in Telangana

In November 2019, Gland Pharma launched a first-of-its-kind ‘Free Breakfast Scheme’ for nearly 9100 children of 66 government-run schools around our manufacturing facilities in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam. These children begin their day with a nutritious breakfast prepared hygienically and supplied by Akshaya Patra Foundation.

This programme was started on 14th November 2019 (Chidlren’s Day). It began with feeding about 7000 children and now they are serving more than 16,000 children from 83 government schools along with 350 beneficiaries of 10 Anganwadi centres in Hyderabad. Of these, 43 schools are in Hyderabad, 40 are in Vishakhapatnam. In these Anganwadi centres, 3-6 year-old pre-school children, pregnant and lactating mothers are the beneficiaries.

Akshaya Patra Foundation, who is the implementing partner for this project, has huge community kitchens in Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam. They have specialised vehicles to convey these meals in hot and hygienic condition to all the beneficiaries.

CSR of Bharat Petroleum

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, a leading ‘Maharatna’ and Fortune Global 500 Company, announced its support for a significant healthcare initiative aimed at profoundly deaf children in Maharashtra in July this year. As part of its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), BPCL has partnered with the Indorewala Memorial Educational & Medical Institute & Research Centre (IMEMIRC) to provide cochlear implantation surgeries for 30 underprivileged children in the state.

Cochlear implantation is a procedure that enhances hearing for individuals who have experienced inner-ear damage and are unable to benefit from external hearing aids. The programme led by IMEMIRC is dedicated to offering early intervention and prevention of hearing loss among economically disadvantaged children who are born deaf.

In February this year, BPCL announced partnership with Sri Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospitals and enabled free of cost child heart surgeries for needy children with Congenital Heart Disease. BPCL, under their CSR initiatives, carried out this annual campaign on Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day.

Over 4100+ children have benefited from the project and they are expected to treat 9000-12000 children by next year. BPCL has provided all critical medical equipment for the hospital in Mumbai and now pledged to treat 150 underprivileged children who would be treated totally free at Sai Sanjeevani Hospitals in Haryana and Chhattisgarh.

More than 24,000 children from the economically backward families have been treated by the hospitals, since they started, the company announced.

HCL Foundation and Tamil Nadu Police’s partnership for children in urban slums

HCL Foundation, which delivers the corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda of HCL Tech in India, and Tamil Nadu Police announced in August this year that they have extended their partnership to empower children living in urban slums. The collaborative effort, which began in 2011, has been extended till 2026. The initiative seeks to bring about a positive impact in children residing in urban slums across the Avadi, Chennai and Tambaram Commissionerates through the Police Boys & Girls Club, addressing critical societal challenges and fostering sustainable development for marginalised communities.

The project will be implemented across 29 slum communities, benefiting 25,000 children residing in the North and South Chennai areas. This initiative aims to offer a holistic platform for disadvantaged children, providing them with a nurturing environment. The initiative’s key focus areas include after-school and digital education, support services, sports, health, environment, scouts and guides and advocacy for child rights.
Children inhabiting these urban enclaves encounter unique psychosocial challenges, compounded by the intrinsic hurdles of childhood and adolescence. Research shows that concentrated poverty within neighbourhoods substantially restricts opportunities for social interaction, access to positive role models and essential resources such as quality education, healthcare facilities, parks and playgrounds – all crucial components for fostering robust child development.

CSR of SBI General for children with pediatric cancer

SBI General, one of India’s leading General Insurance companies announced in February this year that it has joined hands with Cuddles Foundation to support pediatric cancer patients. SBI General Insurance supports the Food Heals Program by Cuddles Foundation in Meenakshi Mission Hospital and Research Centre for pediatric patients in Madurai.

The programme aims to provide counselling, diet planning, caregiver support, nutritional meals and supplements to 250 pediatric cancer patients for a duration of 3 months. The programme focuses on providing counselling and diet planning where nutritionists assess a child’s grade of malnourishment, plan diets and monitors progress. Basis this they are then aided with food and supplements like nutritional supplements, hot meals, in-meal supplements.

This programme also provides caregiver support to patient families with the knowledge to make healthier food choices by organising parent support group meetings, videos, educational talks and more.

CSR of SECL for students in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

SECL’s area of operation being Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the PSU company has taken initiatives to develop education infrastructure in government schools in Chhattisgarh by renovating and rebuilding schools, building hostels, developing smart-classes and providing desk and benches for the students.
With SECL’s CSR support, smart classes have been set-up in 500 government schools of Korba district at an expenditure of about Rs 9 crore through the District Collector of Korba.

The beneficiaries are mainly children belonging to tribal areas and underprivileged background. At least 113 smart classes have been developed through the district administration Raigarh in government schools built within 25 km radius of SECL’s office in Raigarh district. Apart from this, 83 smart-class facilities have been developed in schools in Raigarh, Dharamjaigarh, and Kharsia tehsils of Raigarh district.

SECL has recently announced that it will provide free residential medical coaching to students of Class 12th under its CSR initiative, “SECL ke Sushrut”. The company will mentor and provide coaching to students to help them prepare for the national medical entrance exam – NEET.

The move is expected to benefit students from poor economic background, especially in villages in coal belt areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Under the programme, coaching will be provided to a total batch of 35 students in partnership with a Bilaspur-based private coaching institute. The programme will be residential with regular national-level test series and mentoring and will include lodging and boarding facilities.

CSR of Philips India for free medical assistance to kids

Philips India announced partnership with Rotary Bangalore Indiranagar in July this year for providing free medical assistance, surgery, and post-surgical care to 300 underprivileged children in the age group of 2-12 years by the end of 2023.

The collaboration seeks to address the critical need for quality healthcare and ensure access to essential cardiac care services for children from low-income families. Philips and Rotary Bangalore Indiranagar are already in partnership with Jayadeva Hospital, Manipal Hospitals, and Fortis Hospitals in Bengaluru to conduct these surgeries at a subsidized cost.

In India, the estimated number of children born with congenital heart defects (CHD) is over 200,000 per year. Over 70,000 are diagnosed with critical CHD and need specialised medical intervention even before they are one year old. This inherited heart muscle problem can result in sudden death or progressive heart failure. Awareness amongst the underprivileged about genetic cardiomyopathy is also low.

Xiaomi India’s scholarship programme for sports and academics

Xiaomi India, leading smartphone and smart TV brand announced its partnership with the Virender Sehwag Foundation (VSF) for a scholarship programme in September, this year. The programme aims to provide financial aid to underprivileged children for access to quality education in sports and academics. With a special emphasis on sports, the partnership is dedicated to identifying and nurturing sporting talent among underprivileged children. The scholarship programme will support children by providing access to adequate sporting infrastructure and equipment, allowing them to hone their skills and talent. By providing the necessary financial assistance and infrastructure, the programme aims to create opportunities for young athletes to excel in their chosen sports and potentially represent the nation at various levels of competition.

The scholarship will also cover expenses related to school fees, books, pens, uniforms, as well as. To avoid dropouts, the scholarship would be paid at the beginning of the academic year itself..

RR Kabel’s Star Scholarship Programme for children of electricians

RR Kabel Limited, one of the leading wire and cable manufacturer and electrical solutions company in India, announced its latest edition of the RR Kabel Star Scholarship Programme in June this year. The programme, that was rolled out in 2022 is aimed at empowering and helping the children of electricians in India. The company claims that more than 1,000 students were awarded scholarships of more than Rs.1 crore across India in the last one year.

The RR Kabel Star Scholarship Programme is for those electricians’ children who have passed their 10th grade exams this year and are pursuing their higher secondary education. The criteria for applying for this scholarship is that the students must have cleared their exams in the first attempt and their parent should be registered as an electrician on the RR Connect app. Top 1,000 students amongst the applicants will be selected and given a scholarship of Rs. 10,000 each. The applications for this year will go live in June 2023.

CSR of CapitaLand Group for school children in Karnataka

CapitaLand Hope Foundation (CHF), the philanthropic arm of CapitaLand Group (CapitaLand), is collaborating with Pratham Education Foundation to pilot the latter’s holistic learning programme “Hamara Gaon” in 12 more underserved communities in Karnataka state where the children of the two schools supported under the CapitaLand Hope School Programme are from. CHF has committed to kick-start the programme with a donation of S$108,000 (INR 6.5 million) to support the first year’s funding. The funding will also support the ongoing programme in 50 communities located across Devanahalli and Kolar districts, they announced.

Over three days from 28 to 30 October 2023, more than 50 CapitaLand staff volunteers from six countries – India, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, United Kingdom and Vietnam – decorated the school classrooms and common areas with hand-painted wall murals, enhanced the play area with a sandpit, and added more shelves and books in the reading room. They also organised CapitaLand’s “Little Architect Programme” workshops to broaden the students’ knowledge and interest in architecture, sparking their imagination and creativity.

Government Kannada and English Medium Higher Primary School is one of three schools in India under the CapitaLand Hope School Programme. The other two are Government Hi-Tech Kannada and English Medium Higher Primary School, also in Bangalore, and Government Marathi Medium Higher Primary School, in Pune.

CSR of Sami-Sabinsa Group for mid-day meal in Bengaluru

Sami-Sabinsa Group, the multi-national health science company headquartered in Bengaluru, through its philanthropic arm, the Dr. Majeed Foundation, donated Rs. 50 lakhs to The Akshaya Patra Foundation. The contribution will help support and provide mid-day meals to the less fortunate school children in and around Bengaluru.
To commemorate the activity, Dr. Anju Majeed, Director, Sami-Sabinsa Group, along with Mr. Anant Arora, Chief Sustainability and Communication Officer, Akshaya Patra, flagged off the meal distribution vehicle in October in Bengaluru, Karnataka. From their kitchen at Rajaji Nagar, Akshaya Patra feeds about 75,000 schoolchildren, covering 477 schools.

Larsen & Toubro’s Vidya

Without causing any break in the education of rural underprivileged kids during the pandemic, Larsen & Toubro Public Charitable Trust (LTPCT) has taken education at the doorsteps of underprivileged children in rural areas across multiple states through its flagship CSR programme ‘Vidya’.

As the pandemic has forced India’s schooling system into a digital divide, Larsen & Toubro’s charitable trust has collaborated with SAP’s CODE Unnati – a corporate-to-citizen, digital literacy and IT skills development initiative by SAP India through community and parental engagement model. NGOs Pratham Education Foundation and Agastya Foundation, joined hands in conducting digital educational activities and science education programmes.

Project Vidya conducted online summer camps, special radio programmes for tribal students in the hinterlands of Talasari, a tribal block in Palghar district of Maharashtra. It also conducted online classes for class 10th students in Gujarat and engaged in innovative science education in Talasari, Ahmednagar, Talegaon in Maharashtra, Kharel, Navsari, Hazira, Surat, Vadodara in Gujarat, Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Faridabad in Haryana as well as Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu.

Vidya leveraged on the parental engagement in Talasari. This model involves appointing ‘Cluster Resource Persons’ (CRP) and Sancharaks, who are either mothers or young graduates from the same community, trained in early childhood content, parenting, counseling and digital education. They are assigned families in the area to whom they provide support through calls and home visits. The CRPs, Sancharaks connected with the students and local community through WhatsApp groups and conducted digital summer camps.

ITC’s Primary Education Programme

Working among the lower income communities around its operations across India, ITC’s Primary Education Programme with versatile teaching approaches of playing and learning is encouraging children to come to school, thereby stemming dropout rates and improving learning outcomes.

To create an atmosphere conducive to learning, the CSR programme provides infrastructural support to government primary schools – desks and chairs, lights and fans, classrooms and other structural improvements, textbooks and notebooks, sports kits, etc. Sanitation infrastructure is a top priority – separate toilets for boys and girls, drinking water and handwashing stations, etc – are backed by a proactive approach to developing hygienic habits among children.

To make learning more stimulating, ITC’s Primary Education Programme partners with education providers to introduce modern teaching and assessment methods that help children to achieve higher learning levels and better results. For example, Read India Plus in partnership with the NGO Pratham focuses on enhancing reading and mathematical ability among 6-14 year olds. Supplementary Learning Centres in villages provide coaching to help weak students keep up in school and drop-outs to return to the school system.

IIFL Group upgrading Maa Baadi centres

IIFL Foundation, the CSR arm of diversified financial conglomerate IIFL Group, is collaborating with the Government of Rajasthan for transforming Maa Baadi centres as a ‘Child Friendly Model Maa Baadi Centres’ for over 1500 children.

Maa Baadi centres governed by SWACH Project are an undertaking of Tribal Area Development Dept. (TAD), Government of Rajasthan. In its first phase, IIFL Foundation is redeveloping Maa Baadi centres located Udaipur (Sarada Block) and Pali (Bali block). The foundation is also conducting repair of the structure, improving sanitation facility, and building play area for students.

The CSR initiative aims to enhance the academic learning of the students through introduction of ‘Digital Tools’ (Multimedia based teaching over TV & Android Tablet), access to healthy sanitation facility, development of play area and upgrading Maa Baadi as a ‘Green Structure’ through installation of solar panels. On occasion of Gandhi Jayanti 2021, the ‘Model Maa Baadi’ centre developed at Kharbar panchayat, at Sarada block of Udaipur was handed over to the department upon upgradation.

Vedanta Nand Ghar

Nand Ghars are a transformative leap dedicated to benefit rural children and women in India. A measure undertaken by Vedanta under the Anil Agarwal Foundation Initiative, together with the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), the project aims to ensure that rural India is not left behind in India’s march towards progress.

The infrastructure is being utilized in the morning for children’s education and nutrition and in the afternoon for skill development of women. Today there are more than 2300 Nand Ghars are running across 11 states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Odisha.

Tata Motors addresses malnutrition

A unique partnership and convergence model was developed to address undernourishment, by improving health and nutrition, among children in these villages around Sanand (Gujarat) by focusing on their health and nutrition, and educating mothers on nutrition and hygiene. The project was planned and executed by Tata Motors under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme of the Government. Its implementing partner, Manav Seva Trust was given the primary responsibility of building a rapport with the mothers of malnourished children.

Representatives made home visits during cooking hours when information was shared on healthy and nutritious food practices. The focused approach of the intervention ensured that children attended aganwadis during the day where they were fed five nutritious meals a week, which brought about a quick recovery in their health status. Mothers now have better understanding of the components of a nutritious meal, besides having acquired new cooking skills and knowledge on hygiene.

The post Children’s Day 2023 – Top CSR Projects for children in rural areas and urban slums appeared first on The CSR Journal.

Government bodies and CSR of private companies and PSUs could turn things around with targeted and strategic interventions. On Children’s Day 2024, we present the top CSR projects that are aimed at improving the lives of children, and in effect, the future of our nation and the world. These include supporting healthcare, education, nutrition and other needs of underprivileged children in different parts of India.

Coal India Limited’s Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana

Fortis Healthcare has joined hands with Coal India Limited (CIL) to treat underprivileged children suffering from thalassemia, under CIL’s flagship CSR Initiative ‘Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana’. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for this partnership was signed on July 28th 2023 at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, in the presence of Renu Chaturvedi, General Manager (CSR), Coal India, Shobha Tuli, Secretary, Thalassemics India, Anil Vinayak, Group COO, Fortis Healthcare, Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Fortis Gurugram and other senior dignitaries from Fortis.
In 2017, Coal India had launched ‘Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana’ to support the treatment of underprivileged children affected by Thalassemia. Later in 2020 Aplastic Anemia was also added under the programme.

As per the MoU, financial assistance of up to Rs. 10 lakhs will be provided by Coal India Limited to eligible patients for bone marrow transplants and the treatment can be done at Fortis Hospital, Gurugram. Fortis Memorial Research Institute, has one of the largest and most comprehensive BMT centres in the country with an experienced team of nearly 20 doctors, who have expertise in treatment of all kinds of blood disorders and also perform complicated Bone Marrow Transplants.

Gland Pharma’s Free Breakfast Programme in Telangana

In November 2019, Gland Pharma launched a first-of-its-kind ‘Free Breakfast Scheme’ for nearly 9100 children of 66 government-run schools around our manufacturing facilities in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam. These children begin their day with a nutritious breakfast prepared hygienically and supplied by Akshaya Patra Foundation.

This programme was started on 14th November 2019 (Chidlren’s Day). It began with feeding about 7000 children and now they are serving more than 16,000 children from 83 government schools along with 350 beneficiaries of 10 Anganwadi centres in Hyderabad. Of these, 43 schools are in Hyderabad, 40 are in Vishakhapatnam. In these Anganwadi centres, 3-6 year-old pre-school children, pregnant and lactating mothers are the beneficiaries.

Akshaya Patra Foundation, who is the implementing partner for this project, has huge community kitchens in Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam. They have specialised vehicles to convey these meals in hot and hygienic condition to all the beneficiaries.

CSR of Bharat Petroleum

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, a leading ‘Maharatna’ and Fortune Global 500 Company, announced its support for a significant healthcare initiative aimed at profoundly deaf children in Maharashtra in July this year. As part of its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), BPCL has partnered with the Indorewala Memorial Educational & Medical Institute & Research Centre (IMEMIRC) to provide cochlear implantation surgeries for 30 underprivileged children in the state.

Cochlear implantation is a procedure that enhances hearing for individuals who have experienced inner-ear damage and are unable to benefit from external hearing aids. The programme led by IMEMIRC is dedicated to offering early intervention and prevention of hearing loss among economically disadvantaged children who are born deaf.

In February this year, BPCL announced partnership with Sri Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Hospitals and enabled free of cost child heart surgeries for needy children with Congenital Heart Disease. BPCL, under their CSR initiatives, carried out this annual campaign on Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day.

Over 4100+ children have benefited from the project and they are expected to treat 9000-12000 children by next year. BPCL has provided all critical medical equipment for the hospital in Mumbai and now pledged to treat 150 underprivileged children who would be treated totally free at Sai Sanjeevani Hospitals in Haryana and Chhattisgarh.

More than 24,000 children from the economically backward families have been treated by the hospitals, since they started, the company announced.

HCL Foundation and Tamil Nadu Police’s partnership for children in urban slums

HCL Foundation, which delivers the corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda of HCL Tech in India, and Tamil Nadu Police announced in August this year that they have extended their partnership to empower children living in urban slums. The collaborative effort, which began in 2011, has been extended till 2026. The initiative seeks to bring about a positive impact in children residing in urban slums across the Avadi, Chennai and Tambaram Commissionerates through the Police Boys & Girls Club, addressing critical societal challenges and fostering sustainable development for marginalised communities.

The project will be implemented across 29 slum communities, benefiting 25,000 children residing in the North and South Chennai areas. This initiative aims to offer a holistic platform for disadvantaged children, providing them with a nurturing environment. The initiative’s key focus areas include after-school and digital education, support services, sports, health, environment, scouts and guides and advocacy for child rights.
Children inhabiting these urban enclaves encounter unique psychosocial challenges, compounded by the intrinsic hurdles of childhood and adolescence. Research shows that concentrated poverty within neighbourhoods substantially restricts opportunities for social interaction, access to positive role models and essential resources such as quality education, healthcare facilities, parks and playgrounds – all crucial components for fostering robust child development.

CSR of SBI General for children with pediatric cancer

SBI General, one of India’s leading General Insurance companies announced in February this year that it has joined hands with Cuddles Foundation to support pediatric cancer patients. SBI General Insurance supports the Food Heals Program by Cuddles Foundation in Meenakshi Mission Hospital and Research Centre for pediatric patients in Madurai.

The programme aims to provide counselling, diet planning, caregiver support, nutritional meals and supplements to 250 pediatric cancer patients for a duration of 3 months. The programme focuses on providing counselling and diet planning where nutritionists assess a child’s grade of malnourishment, plan diets and monitors progress. Basis this they are then aided with food and supplements like nutritional supplements, hot meals, in-meal supplements.

This programme also provides caregiver support to patient families with the knowledge to make healthier food choices by organising parent support group meetings, videos, educational talks and more.

CSR of SECL for students in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

SECL’s area of operation being Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the PSU company has taken initiatives to develop education infrastructure in government schools in Chhattisgarh by renovating and rebuilding schools, building hostels, developing smart-classes and providing desk and benches for the students.
With SECL’s CSR support, smart classes have been set-up in 500 government schools of Korba district at an expenditure of about Rs 9 crore through the District Collector of Korba.

The beneficiaries are mainly children belonging to tribal areas and underprivileged background. At least 113 smart classes have been developed through the district administration Raigarh in government schools built within 25 km radius of SECL’s office in Raigarh district. Apart from this, 83 smart-class facilities have been developed in schools in Raigarh, Dharamjaigarh, and Kharsia tehsils of Raigarh district.

SECL has recently announced that it will provide free residential medical coaching to students of Class 12th under its CSR initiative, “SECL ke Sushrut”. The company will mentor and provide coaching to students to help them prepare for the national medical entrance exam – NEET.

The move is expected to benefit students from poor economic background, especially in villages in coal belt areas of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Under the programme, coaching will be provided to a total batch of 35 students in partnership with a Bilaspur-based private coaching institute. The programme will be residential with regular national-level test series and mentoring and will include lodging and boarding facilities.

CSR of Philips India for free medical assistance to kids

Philips India announced partnership with Rotary Bangalore Indiranagar in July this year for providing free medical assistance, surgery, and post-surgical care to 300 underprivileged children in the age group of 2-12 years by the end of 2023.

The collaboration seeks to address the critical need for quality healthcare and ensure access to essential cardiac care services for children from low-income families. Philips and Rotary Bangalore Indiranagar are already in partnership with Jayadeva Hospital, Manipal Hospitals, and Fortis Hospitals in Bengaluru to conduct these surgeries at a subsidized cost.

In India, the estimated number of children born with congenital heart defects (CHD) is over 200,000 per year. Over 70,000 are diagnosed with critical CHD and need specialised medical intervention even before they are one year old. This inherited heart muscle problem can result in sudden death or progressive heart failure. Awareness amongst the underprivileged about genetic cardiomyopathy is also low.

Xiaomi India’s scholarship programme for sports and academics

Xiaomi India, leading smartphone and smart TV brand announced its partnership with the Virender Sehwag Foundation (VSF) for a scholarship programme in September, this year. The programme aims to provide financial aid to underprivileged children for access to quality education in sports and academics. With a special emphasis on sports, the partnership is dedicated to identifying and nurturing sporting talent among underprivileged children. The scholarship programme will support children by providing access to adequate sporting infrastructure and equipment, allowing them to hone their skills and talent. By providing the necessary financial assistance and infrastructure, the programme aims to create opportunities for young athletes to excel in their chosen sports and potentially represent the nation at various levels of competition.

The scholarship will also cover expenses related to school fees, books, pens, uniforms, as well as. To avoid dropouts, the scholarship would be paid at the beginning of the academic year itself..

RR Kabel’s Star Scholarship Programme for children of electricians

RR Kabel Limited, one of the leading wire and cable manufacturer and electrical solutions company in India, announced its latest edition of the RR Kabel Star Scholarship Programme in June this year. The programme, that was rolled out in 2022 is aimed at empowering and helping the children of electricians in India. The company claims that more than 1,000 students were awarded scholarships of more than Rs.1 crore across India in the last one year.

The RR Kabel Star Scholarship Programme is for those electricians’ children who have passed their 10th grade exams this year and are pursuing their higher secondary education. The criteria for applying for this scholarship is that the students must have cleared their exams in the first attempt and their parent should be registered as an electrician on the RR Connect app. Top 1,000 students amongst the applicants will be selected and given a scholarship of Rs. 10,000 each. The applications for this year will go live in June 2023.

CSR of CapitaLand Group for school children in Karnataka

CapitaLand Hope Foundation (CHF), the philanthropic arm of CapitaLand Group (CapitaLand), is collaborating with Pratham Education Foundation to pilot the latter’s holistic learning programme “Hamara Gaon” in 12 more underserved communities in Karnataka state where the children of the two schools supported under the CapitaLand Hope School Programme are from. CHF has committed to kick-start the programme with a donation of S$108,000 (INR 6.5 million) to support the first year’s funding. The funding will also support the ongoing programme in 50 communities located across Devanahalli and Kolar districts, they announced.

Over three days from 28 to 30 October 2023, more than 50 CapitaLand staff volunteers from six countries – India, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, United Kingdom and Vietnam – decorated the school classrooms and common areas with hand-painted wall murals, enhanced the play area with a sandpit, and added more shelves and books in the reading room. They also organised CapitaLand’s “Little Architect Programme” workshops to broaden the students’ knowledge and interest in architecture, sparking their imagination and creativity.

Government Kannada and English Medium Higher Primary School is one of three schools in India under the CapitaLand Hope School Programme. The other two are Government Hi-Tech Kannada and English Medium Higher Primary School, also in Bangalore, and Government Marathi Medium Higher Primary School, in Pune.

CSR of Sami-Sabinsa Group for mid-day meal in Bengaluru

Sami-Sabinsa Group, the multi-national health science company headquartered in Bengaluru, through its philanthropic arm, the Dr. Majeed Foundation, donated Rs. 50 lakhs to The Akshaya Patra Foundation. The contribution will help support and provide mid-day meals to the less fortunate school children in and around Bengaluru.
To commemorate the activity, Dr. Anju Majeed, Director, Sami-Sabinsa Group, along with Mr. Anant Arora, Chief Sustainability and Communication Officer, Akshaya Patra, flagged off the meal distribution vehicle in October in Bengaluru, Karnataka. From their kitchen at Rajaji Nagar, Akshaya Patra feeds about 75,000 schoolchildren, covering 477 schools.

Larsen & Toubro’s Vidya

Without causing any break in the education of rural underprivileged kids during the pandemic, Larsen & Toubro Public Charitable Trust (LTPCT) has taken education at the doorsteps of underprivileged children in rural areas across multiple states through its flagship CSR programme ‘Vidya’.

As the pandemic has forced India’s schooling system into a digital divide, Larsen & Toubro’s charitable trust has collaborated with SAP’s CODE Unnati – a corporate-to-citizen, digital literacy and IT skills development initiative by SAP India through community and parental engagement model. NGOs Pratham Education Foundation and Agastya Foundation, joined hands in conducting digital educational activities and science education programmes.

Project Vidya conducted online summer camps, special radio programmes for tribal students in the hinterlands of Talasari, a tribal block in Palghar district of Maharashtra. It also conducted online classes for class 10th students in Gujarat and engaged in innovative science education in Talasari, Ahmednagar, Talegaon in Maharashtra, Kharel, Navsari, Hazira, Surat, Vadodara in Gujarat, Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Faridabad in Haryana as well as Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu.

Vidya leveraged on the parental engagement in Talasari. This model involves appointing ‘Cluster Resource Persons’ (CRP) and Sancharaks, who are either mothers or young graduates from the same community, trained in early childhood content, parenting, counseling and digital education. They are assigned families in the area to whom they provide support through calls and home visits. The CRPs, Sancharaks connected with the students and local community through WhatsApp groups and conducted digital summer camps.

ITC’s Primary Education Programme

Working among the lower income communities around its operations across India, ITC’s Primary Education Programme with versatile teaching approaches of playing and learning is encouraging children to come to school, thereby stemming dropout rates and improving learning outcomes.

To create an atmosphere conducive to learning, the CSR programme provides infrastructural support to government primary schools – desks and chairs, lights and fans, classrooms and other structural improvements, textbooks and notebooks, sports kits, etc. Sanitation infrastructure is a top priority – separate toilets for boys and girls, drinking water and handwashing stations, etc – are backed by a proactive approach to developing hygienic habits among children.

To make learning more stimulating, ITC’s Primary Education Programme partners with education providers to introduce modern teaching and assessment methods that help children to achieve higher learning levels and better results. For example, Read India Plus in partnership with the NGO Pratham focuses on enhancing reading and mathematical ability among 6-14 year olds. Supplementary Learning Centres in villages provide coaching to help weak students keep up in school and drop-outs to return to the school system.

IIFL Group upgrading Maa Baadi centres

IIFL Foundation, the CSR arm of diversified financial conglomerate IIFL Group, is collaborating with the Government of Rajasthan for transforming Maa Baadi centres as a ‘Child Friendly Model Maa Baadi Centres’ for over 1500 children.

Maa Baadi centres governed by SWACH Project are an undertaking of Tribal Area Development Dept. (TAD), Government of Rajasthan. In its first phase, IIFL Foundation is redeveloping Maa Baadi centres located Udaipur (Sarada Block) and Pali (Bali block). The foundation is also conducting repair of the structure, improving sanitation facility, and building play area for students.

The CSR initiative aims to enhance the academic learning of the students through introduction of ‘Digital Tools’ (Multimedia based teaching over TV & Android Tablet), access to healthy sanitation facility, development of play area and upgrading Maa Baadi as a ‘Green Structure’ through installation of solar panels. On occasion of Gandhi Jayanti 2021, the ‘Model Maa Baadi’ centre developed at Kharbar panchayat, at Sarada block of Udaipur was handed over to the department upon upgradation.

Vedanta Nand Ghar

Nand Ghars are a transformative leap dedicated to benefit rural children and women in India. A measure undertaken by Vedanta under the Anil Agarwal Foundation Initiative, together with the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD), the project aims to ensure that rural India is not left behind in India’s march towards progress.

The infrastructure is being utilized in the morning for children’s education and nutrition and in the afternoon for skill development of women. Today there are more than 2300 Nand Ghars are running across 11 states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Odisha.

Tata Motors addresses malnutrition

A unique partnership and convergence model was developed to address undernourishment, by improving health and nutrition, among children in these villages around Sanand (Gujarat) by focusing on their health and nutrition, and educating mothers on nutrition and hygiene. The project was planned and executed by Tata Motors under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme of the Government. Its implementing partner, Manav Seva Trust was given the primary responsibility of building a rapport with the mothers of malnourished children.

Representatives made home visits during cooking hours when information was shared on healthy and nutritious food practices. The focused approach of the intervention ensured that children attended aganwadis during the day where they were fed five nutritious meals a week, which brought about a quick recovery in their health status. Mothers now have better understanding of the components of a nutritious meal, besides having acquired new cooking skills and knowledge on hygiene.

Yes Securities Providing Financial Literacy to Students

YES SECURITIES, a leading financial services firm, is thrilled to announce the launch of The Wize Whispers Quiz, an interactive online quiz designed to reinforce financial literacy among children. This quiz marks the celebration of the first anniversary of The Wize Whispers, a monthly comic book series that simplifies complex financial concepts for young minds.

YES SECURITIES, through the adventures of Mr. Turt, the wise and knowledgeable turtle, The Wize Whispers has captivated young readers with its engaging stories and insightful explanations. Children have learned about a wide range of financial topics, including compounding, inflation, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, derivatives, banking, loans, and more.

Financial literacy is a crucial skill for individuals of all ages. By understanding basic financial concepts, children can develop healthy financial habits early on. Studies have shown that financially literate individuals are more likely to save, invest, and make sound financial decisions. For instance, a recent study by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) found that countries with higher levels of financial literacy tend to have stronger economic growth.

Anshul Azrare, MD & CEO of YES SECURITIES, said, “We are thrilled to celebrate the first anniversary of The Wize Whispers and launch our interactive quiz. Our goal is to inspire young minds and empower them with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions. By combining education with entertainment, we hope to make a lasting impact on the future generation. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of financial education initiatives targeting young people. As the financial landscape becomes increasingly complex, it is essential to equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Many schools and organizations are now incorporating financial education into their curricula, recognizing the importance of these skills for future success.”

The Wize Whispers Quiz features a variety of question formats, including multiple-choice, crossword puzzles, match the columns, and visual puzzles.

Ek Muthi Chawal initiative by SMFG India Credit

SMFG India Credit (SMICC), a leading non-banking financial company initiated its employee centric initiative, ‘Ek Muthi Chawal’. The initiative allows employees of SMFG India Credit an opportunity to spread festive cheers by donating rice, wheat and pulses which will help feed children and elderly in old age homes for a month. Donations received during this initiative go directly to a partner NGO and are utilised to benefit children and elderly people.

The company has set an ambitious target for the 5^th edition of Ek Muthi Chawal with the aim to donate 60,000 kg of rice, grains & pulses by over 12,000+ employees across 21 states. The contribution is expected to benefit around 20,000 children providing them essential nutrition for a month.

Over the past four editions, the company has managed to widen the reach of the initiative with consistent growth in participation from the employees and impact year after year. Collectively over the past 4 editions, we have provided essential nutrition to over 50,000+ children for a month with employee participation rising from 5,000 employees to over 10,500 employees.

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