Punjab, a land steeped in culture and known for its agriculture, has become a preferred destination for corporations aiming to make a positive impact on society through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects. In the financial year 2023-24, Punjab received a significant influx of CSR funds, totalling Rs. 351.89 Crores, contributed by 573 companies dedicated to making a difference in the region.
The primary focus of these CSR initiatives in Punjab has been on education, health, and the environment. With notable allocations of Rs. 159.05 Crores, Rs. 102.73 Crores, and Rs. 42.08 Crores, respectively, these sectors have seen substantial investments that promise to positively impact the state.
Furthermore, Punjab has witnessed significant contributions from leading corporate entities. HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited emerged as the top contributor, allocating Rs. 26.47 Crores to Punjab’s welfare. Close behind, Indus Towers Limited and HDFC Bank Limited allocated amounts of Rs. 24 Crores and Rs. 20.13 Crores, respectively, reaffirming their commitment to fostering positive change in the region.
Punjab Floods 2025
Punjab has witnessed one of its worst spells of monsoon flooding in recent years, submerging crops, damaging homes, and displacing thousands. In late August and early September 2025, Punjab experienced its worst flooding in decades, impacting all 23 districts of the state. The severe flooding was caused by a combination of factors, including extreme rainfall in upstream areas of neighboring Himachal Pradesh and the subsequent release of water from major dams.
Nearly 20 lakh people were affected across 2,050 villages as of early September.
Over 3.8 lakh people were displaced from their homes. The official death toll was reported to be as high as 48, with some sources mentioning even higher numbers.
More than 1.76 lakh hectares of farmland were submerged, with crops like paddy, maize, and cotton destroyed. Livestock and poultry were severely impacted due to waterlogging and fodder shortages.
Medical infrastructure valued at ₹780 crore was damaged, including hospitals, equipment, and medicines. Hundreds of homes were fully or partially damaged.
In cities like Ludhiana, sewage systems overflowed, adding to the health crisis.
While government and civil society groups are working round the clock to provide food, medical aid, and shelter, the availability of light after sunset remains a less-discussed but pressing challenge.
Rescue and relief operations were initiated by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Army, and other state agencies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the flood-affected regions and announced financial assistance of Rs 1,600 crore for Punjab.
Top CSR Initiatives in flood-affected Punjab
Following the devastating 2025 floods in Punjab, numerous corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives have been launched by large corporations, smaller companies, and foundations. These efforts focus on both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation for the worst-affected communities.
CSR of Reliance Industries
The Reliance family of companies, including the Reliance Foundation, Reliance Retail, Jio, and Vantara, has launched a large-scale, ten-point humanitarian response. These include:
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Nutrition and essentials: Provided dry ration kits to 10,000 families and distributed sanitation and hygiene kits.
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Monetary aid: Distributed cash vouchers of ₹5,000 to 1,000 of the most vulnerable households, such as those led by single women or the elderly.
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Infrastructure and connectivity: Deployed portable water filters to ensure safe drinking water and restored communication networks in affected areas via Jio.
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Livestock support: Set up veterinary camps with the Animal Husbandry Department to treat distressed livestock and distributed silage bundles for cattle.
Flood relief for Punjab from Shah Rukh Khan’s Meer Foundation
Working in collaboration with the Roundglass Foundation, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s Meer Foundation has provided relief materials and support to over 1,500 families in areas including Fazilka, Ferozpur, Amritsar, and Gurdaspur. The relief focuses on essential supplies for displaced families.
CSR of Hartek Foundation
Hartek Foundation, the CSR arm of the Hartek Group has focused on a less-discussed but critical need: lighting. They donated 500 solar-powered lights to households experiencing power outages in districts like Ajanala, Fazilka, and Ramdas. The distribution was carried out in partnership with Global Sikhs, a non-governmental organization.
“In a crisis like this, light is not just about visibility—it’s about dignity, safety, and reassurance,” said Ms. Harkirat Kaur, CEO, Hartek Foundation. “We want families to feel a sense of normalcy, even if the situation around them is uncertain.”
For many villagers, the solar lights are the first source of light since the floods disrupted electricity connections. Solar Lights are particularly crucial for women, children, and the elderly, who face the greatest risks when night falls in flooded areas.
CSR of Vardhman Special Steels Limited (VSSL)
On behalf of Vardhman Special Steels Limited (VSSL), Vice-Chairman Sachit Jain presented a cheque of ₹10 lakh to the Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner for relief efforts. The company and other local industries have also routed funds through the Red Cross Society.
Support to Punjab from residents and organisations of Pune
Hadiya Social Foundation, Islamia Education Trust, Akhil Nagari Ekta Manch, and Jagruti Foundation have collected relief material for flood-hit Punjab. They set up a stall to gather donations of clothing and non-perishable food items. Collected funds were sent to Punjab via a QR code linked to the Gurdwara Guru Singh Sabha’s account for flood relief aid.
CSR of Hanspal Traders
Hanspal Traders, which supplies parts to the Rail Coach Factory, fabricated and deployed relief boats. They built a special boat design with a 20-tonne capacity (“Berra”) to help farmers transport cattle and agricultural equipment. The company made its boat design and techniques public to encourage others to build them.
Other CSR initiatives in Punjab
Quality Healthcare Access for All – Apollo Hospitals
Apollo Hospitals, a renowned name in healthcare, has taken up the noble mission of ensuring quality healthcare access for all, particularly in underserved communities across Punjab. Under their CSR initiative, Apollo Hospitals has initiated a multifaceted approach to address healthcare disparities and improve the overall well-being of the region’s residents.
One of the cornerstones of this initiative is the establishment of mobile medical clinics that traverse remote and marginalised areas of Punjab. These mobile clinics serve as lifelines, bringing healthcare services to the doorstep of those who would otherwise struggle to access medical care. Highly skilled medical professionals aboard these mobile units conduct health check-ups, provide essential medical advice, and offer diagnostics, ensuring early detection and treatment of ailments.
Furthermore, Apollo Hospitals conducts health awareness camps that educate communities about preventive healthcare measures, nutrition, and hygiene. These camps empower individuals with knowledge to take charge of their health and well-being.
Perhaps most significantly, Apollo Hospitals extends its benevolence by offering free medical consultations and treatments to individuals who are unable to afford medical care. This compassionate approach ensures that no one in Punjab is left behind when it comes to healthcare access.
Through these concerted efforts, Apollo Hospitals not only delivers healthcare services but also fosters a culture of health consciousness and community well-being in Punjab, exemplifying the true spirit of corporate social responsibility.
Empowering Rural Education – Ambuja Cement Foundation
The Ambuja Cement Foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of education in rural Punjab. Recognising that education is the cornerstone of empowerment and progress, their CSR project has a laser focus on improving the educational landscape in remote villages.
One of the key aspects of their initiative is the enhancement of school infrastructure. Ambuja Cement Foundation invests in building and renovating schools, creating conducive learning environments for students. Modern classrooms, libraries, and sanitation facilities are part of their contribution, ensuring that children have access to the basics necessary for quality education.
To complement infrastructure development, the foundation provides educational resources such as books, stationery, and learning aids to schools in rural areas. This initiative bridges the resource gap and ensures that students have access to the tools they need to excel in their studies.
Moreover, Ambuja Cement Foundation organises teacher training programs, elevating the quality of teaching in these remote villages. Well-trained educators are better equipped to nurture young minds, fostering a love for learning and critical thinking skills among students.
Through their concerted efforts, Ambuja Cement Foundation is empowering rural communities in Punjab by providing children with the opportunity to receive a quality education, paving the way for a brighter future.
Green Punjab, Clean Punjab – Tata Motors
Tata Motors is firmly committed to environmental sustainability in Punjab, aligning its CSR efforts with the state’s goals for a “Green Punjab” and “Clean Punjab.” Recognising the critical need to protect the environment for current and future generations, Tata Motors has launched a comprehensive CSR initiative that encompasses various eco-friendly endeavours.
One of their flagship initiatives is tree plantation drives. Tata Motors actively engages with communities to plant trees and create green belts in urban and rural areas. These efforts not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of Punjab but also contribute to improved air quality and ecological balance.
Additionally, the company is deeply involved in waste management initiatives. They promote waste segregation, recycling, and responsible disposal practices. By raising awareness about waste management, Tata Motors helps reduce the burden of waste on the environment and encourages sustainable practices.
To promote eco-friendly habits among the public, Tata Motors conducts campaigns that educate people about the importance of reducing their carbon footprint. These campaigns emphasise the significance of sustainable transportation, energy conservation, and responsible resource consumption.
Tata Motors’ commitment to a “Green Punjab, Clean Punjab” exemplifies its dedication to environmental stewardship and its proactive role in preserving the natural beauty of the state while safeguarding its ecological balance.
Skills Development for Youth – Reliance Industries Limited
Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has embarked on a CSR program designed to empower the youth of Punjab through skill development initiatives. Recognising that skills and employability are essential for economic growth and social progress, RIL’s CSR endeavours are geared towards providing young adults with the tools they need to secure gainful employment.
One of the key components of this initiative is vocational training. RIL partners with vocational training institutes and conducts skill development programs that impart practical skills in various trades and industries. These programs are designed to align with the demands of the job market, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for employment opportunities.
In addition to vocational training, RIL offers job placement assistance. They work closely with local businesses and industries to connect trained individuals with suitable job openings. This bridging of the skills gap not only benefits the youth but also contributes to the economic growth of Punjab.
Through these skill development initiatives, Reliance Industries Limited is not only creating avenues for youth employment but also nurturing a skilled workforce that can drive Punjab’s development and prosperity.
Water Conservation and Sanitation – Mahindra & Mahindra
Mahindra & Mahindra is making a significant contribution to Punjab’s water conservation and sanitation efforts through its CSR initiatives. Recognising the importance of clean water and sanitation in improving the quality of life for communities, the company has undertaken a range of projects to address these crucial needs.
One of the primary focuses of their CSR efforts is the construction of water harvesting structures. These structures, such as check dams and rainwater harvesting systems, help conserve rainwater and recharge groundwater, ensuring a sustainable water supply for agriculture and domestic use.
Additionally, Mahindra & Mahindra is committed to creating clean drinking water facilities in rural and underserved areas. Access to safe drinking water is vital for the health and well-being of communities, and the company’s initiatives aim to provide this basic necessity to those in need.
Promoting hygiene and sanitation practices is another integral part of their CSR agenda. Mahindra & Mahindra conducts awareness campaigns to educate communities about the importance of sanitation, proper waste disposal, and personal hygiene, thereby contributing to a cleaner and healthier Punjab.
Through these concerted efforts, Mahindra & Mahindra is playing a pivotal role in addressing critical water and sanitation challenges, ultimately improving the quality of life for the people of Punjab and fostering sustainable development in the region.