In the heart of India lies a state rich in cultural heritage, where history echoes through magnificent forts, ancient temples, and vibrant traditions. Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the “Heart of India,” is a land where tales of valour and splendour intertwine with the natural beauty of its dense forests and meandering rivers. But beyond its cultural riches and natural wonders, Madhya Pradesh has also been carving a unique identity for itself on the corporate social responsibility (CSR) map.
In the financial year 2022, Madhya Pradesh received an impressive sum of Rs. 424.99 Crores in CSR funds from 572 companies. The top three areas of focus for CSR programs in Madhya Pradesh during FY22 were health, education, and rural development, with expenditures of Rs. 149.38 Crores, Rs. 136.17 Crores, and Rs. 73.19 Crores, respectively. The top spenders in the state include Northern Coalfields Limited (Rs. 85.41 Crores), HDFC Bank Limited (Rs. 37.48 Crores), NHDC Limited (Rs. 13.58 Crores), and South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL) (Rs 10.93 cr). These companies have shown their dedication to effecting positive change within Madhya Pradesh’s communities.
Top CSR Projects in Madhya Pradesh
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.
CSR of NMDC
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 of SECL for Education
A school building with seating capacity for 1200 students and a 100 seater girls’ hostel is being constructed in Madhya Pradesh’s Dindori district. This is a CSR initiative of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL). The school and hostel is being constructed at Narmadanchal Vidyapeeth, Tribal Welfare Center Mahakoshal, Bargaon, Dindori.
“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.
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.
In the state of Madhya Pradesh, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has embarked on a transformative journey known as Project “Saksham.” This initiative is not just about providing assistance but nurturing empowerment among the women in rural Madhya Pradesh. HUL recognizes that when women thrive, families and communities prosper.
Project “Saksham” centers on equipping women with the skills and knowledge they need to not only earn a living but also become confident entrepreneurs. HUL has established training centers and workshops in rural areas, where women are taught various vocational skills. These skills encompass a wide range of activities, from tailoring and stitching to soap making and agricultural techniques. By imparting practical skills, HUL is laying the foundation for economic independence.
However, Project “Saksham” doesn’t stop at skill development; it goes a step further by nurturing entrepreneurial acumen. Women are not just trained to work for others; they are encouraged to start their small businesses. HUL provides mentorship and guidance to help these budding entrepreneurs set up their ventures.
The impact of Project “Saksham” extends beyond financial gains. It instills a sense of confidence and self-worth in the women of rural Madhya Pradesh. These women are no longer just homemakers; they are active contributors to their families’ incomes and decision-making processes. As financially independent individuals, they play a crucial role in shaping their communities’ future.
Clean Water for All – Coca-Cola India Foundation
The Coca-Cola India Foundation’s commitment to Madhya Pradesh revolves around a fundamental necessity: access to clean and safe drinking water. In a state where water sources can be scarce and contaminated, this project is a lifeline for underserved communities.
The foundation has implemented an extensive program that centers on the installation of water purification units across rural Madhya Pradesh. These units employ advanced technologies to remove impurities and ensure that the water is not just potable but safe for consumption. In doing so, the foundation addresses a critical aspect of public health, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases and improving overall well-being.
However, the impact of the Coca-Cola India Foundation’s project goes beyond hardware. Community engagement is a cornerstone of their approach. They collaborate with local residents, involving them in the maintenance and management of the water purification units. This sense of ownership fosters a sustainable water ecosystem, ensuring that clean water continues to flow long after the project’s implementation.
By providing clean water, the Coca-Cola India Foundation not only quenches thirst but also nourishes health, empowers communities, and enhances the quality of life in Madhya Pradesh. This project embodies the foundation’s commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen, making a tangible difference where it’s needed most.
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.
