Tucked away in the northeastern part of India, Sikkim is a stunning place known for its natural beauty and diverse culture. It’s a unique destination for travellers seeking adventure and tranquillity.

In the financial year 2024, Sikkim received a sum of Rs 41.87 crore in CSR funds from 40 companies. Among the top priorities for CSR projects in Sikkim were education, rural development, and health. These areas got Rs 14 crore, Rs 12.8 crore, and Rs 7.02 crore, respectively. This investment is aimed at addressing important issues and improving the lives of the local people.

The top contributors to Sikkim’s CSR scene in FY24 were well-known companies like Nhpc Limited, which gave Rs 9.54 crore, Sikkim Urja Limited, with a generous donation of Rs 9.16 crore, and HDFC Bank Limited, providing Rs 5.2 crore for CSR work. These companies see the potential in Sikkim for making a positive difference and are directing their resources to meet the unique needs and challenges of the state.

Let us explore some of the top CSR initiatives happening in Sikkim, highlighting the creative projects and partnerships that are shaping a better future for this fascinating state.

World Bank project to empower women and youth in Sikkim

The World Bank is running a project to support the state government of Sikkim’s efforts to train, upskill, and provide jobs for 300,500 women and youth in high-growth and priority sectors. The project was approved by the World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors in December, 2023.

In Sikkim, over 40 percent of youth are currently engaged in agriculture. Studies have shown that around 70 percent of Sikkim’s youth aspire to work in sectors like renewable energy and IT and would need technical and foundational skills.

The state also has a growing manufacturing and services industry. To sustain growth, the state government aims to skill its women and youth in jobs in non-farm sectors like renewable energy, information and technology (IT) services, tourism, hospitality and wellness care, and creative design.

The $100 million Sikkim: Integrated Service Provision and Innovation for Reviving Economies (INSPIRES) Operation is expected to establish an Employment and Entrepreneurship Promotion Facility, which will promote partnerships with private-sector firms, central agencies, and business associations. In addition, the project will provide staff trainings and build public procurement capacity across priority state departments.

CSR of NHPC

In the wake of the flash floods in the Teesta River basin triggered by a cloudburst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim on 3rd October last year, NHPC Limited contributed Rs 3 crore to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund of Sikkim to support the relief efforts of the Govt. of Sikkim for the victims. NHPC also organised langars, distributed rations and other supplies to the flash flood victims in coordination with the state administration.

The flash flood had been triggered due to outburst of Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim on the night intervening 3rd and 4th October 2023 which caused heavy inflow in the Teesta River. As a result of this flash flood, bridges, parts of highway NH-10, small towns and infrastructure were severely damaged in Teesta River Valley of Sikkim.

NHPC Limited’s also runs healthcare initiatives in the state which go beyond just providing medical services. The mobile health clinics, equipped with modern medical equipment and staffed by trained healthcare professionals, ensure that even the remotest villages have access to quality healthcare.

These clinics conduct regular health check-up camps, making early detection of diseases possible and reducing the burden of advanced healthcare costs. The health education component is crucial, as it empowers local residents with knowledge about hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention. By instilling preventive practices, this initiative is gradually improving the health indicators in Sikkim.

Moreover, NHPC Limited’s commitment to this cause extends to capacity-building programs for local youth interested in healthcare careers. By training and employing local healthcare workers, they are not only addressing the shortage of medical staff but also creating local job opportunities.

CSR of Sikkim Urja Ltd

Sikkim Urja Limited, on the occasion of the World Youth Skills Day 2023 announced sponsorship training and upskilling of Sikkimese youth with the Skill Development Department, Government of Sikkim as per various schemes & initiatives of National Skill Development Corporation.

These include present day skills like Animation & Multimedia, Automotive Electrician, Tour Guide, Naturalist, Walk Tourist Facilitator, Social Media Associate, Sound Editor, Graphics Design, Airlines, Hospitality, Geriatric Caregiver, Digital Film Restoration Artist, Community Journalist & Photography, Vermi-compost Producer, Home-stay Host etc.

According to the company the project, which is a part of its CSR envisages to achieve a scale of 1600+ trained youths. It is anticipated that the training will not only build their capacity to contribute meaningfully while being employed in the private sector or the government sector, but enable them to become entrepreneurs on their own right for a transformative future.

Sikkim Urja Limited’s dedication to educational empowerment is bridging the education gap in the state. Scholarships provided by the company ensure that economically disadvantaged students can continue their education without financial constraints. This initiative has a ripple effect on the community; educated individuals often return to their hometowns to contribute to local development.

Furthermore, Sikkim Urja Limited collaborates with local educational institutions to improve infrastructure and educational quality. They facilitate access to libraries, laboratories, and digital resources, creating an environment conducive to learning. By investing in education, the company is nurturing future leaders and professionals who can drive progress in Sikkim.

Sikkim Urja Limited also organizes career counselling and guidance programs, helping students make informed decisions about their academic and professional paths. This holistic approach ensures that the benefits of education extend beyond financial support.

Rural Development by Power Grid Corporation Of India Limited

Power Grid Corporation Of India Limited’s rural development project is a testament to their commitment to holistic community upliftment. The construction of roads and bridges enhances accessibility, reducing the isolation of rural areas during adverse weather conditions. This, in turn, facilitates the movement of goods and services, boosting local economies.

Beyond infrastructure development, Power Grid Corporation Of India Limited engages local communities in skill development programs. By equipping residents with skills relevant to the region’s needs, such as construction and agriculture, they enable sustainable livelihoods.

Additionally, the corporation encourages community participation in project planning and execution, fostering a sense of ownership and cooperation among local residents. This inclusive approach ensures that rural development initiatives are tailored to the unique requirements of each community.

Environmental Conservation by Dabur India Limited

Dabur India Limited’s commitment to environmental conservation extends to comprehensive afforestation programs. The planting of indigenous tree species not only contributes to the reforestation of Sikkim but also supports biodiversity conservation. These forests act as vital habitats for wildlife, protecting the region’s unique ecosystems.

Moreover, Dabur India Limited actively engages local communities in tree-planting campaigns. This involvement creates a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship among residents. It also provides employment opportunities, particularly during the planting and maintenance phases of these green initiatives.

By focusing on indigenous species, Dabur India Limited ensures that the newly planted forests are resilient to local climatic conditions and provide long-term ecological benefits.

Women’s Empowerment by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

TCS’s women’s empowerment programs extend well beyond skill development. They play a crucial role in transforming the lives of women in Sikkim. Digital literacy programs not only equip women with essential computer skills but also connect them to online resources, expanding their horizons.

The tailoring training empowers women with a valuable skill that can translate into income-generation opportunities. By teaching them how to start and manage their own businesses, TCS is fostering economic independence and entrepreneurship among women in Sikkim.

TCS’s holistic approach includes mentorship and support networks, providing women with a sense of community and encouragement. This comprehensive empowerment initiative contributes not only to the financial well-being of women but also to their overall self-confidence and social standing.

Sikkim, with its unparalleled natural beauty, cultural richness, and a population deeply committed to sustainability, is a state that undoubtedly deserves more CSR funding. Its unique blend of traditions and environmental conscientiousness, coupled with the pressing need for further infrastructure development and educational empowerment, presents a compelling case for increased corporate investment. By directing more CSR resources towards Sikkim, corporations can actively contribute to the preservation of this pristine landscape and the holistic development of its communities, ultimately creating a brighter and more sustainable future for the state and its residents.

Project Buniyaad by Honda India Foundation

Honda India Foundation (HIF), the corporate social responsibility arm of all Honda group of companies in India, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Directorate of Craftsmanship Training & Scheme (DCTSE), Skill Development Department (SDD), Government of Sikkim. The MoU marks the launch of Project Buniyaad in Sikkim under the World Bank-supported Sikkim INSPIRES Program. The signing ceremony was held at Chintan Bhawan, Gangtok in the presence of Mr. Prem Singh Tamang, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim and the Minister-in-Charge, SDD, Shri Samdup Bhutia, Additional Secretary-cum-Director, Directorate of Craftmanship Training, Scheme and Employment (DCTSE), Skill Development Department and Mr. Rajeev Taneja, Operating Officer, Honda India Foundation.

This collaborative effort aims to deliver structured, industry-oriented training in the hospitality sector, certifications by recognized agencies and assured placement opportunities for youth. The initiative is designed to drive sustainable livelihood opportunities through skill-based learning. As Sikkim celebrated 50 years of statehood, the signing of this MoU also adds to the significance of this year’s World Youth Skills Day celebration, reinforcing the role of partnerships in building a future ready and skilled workforce for long-term development.

Launched in 2024, Project Buniyaad aims to empower youth, particularly from National Priority Regions (NPR) like the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir, by providing high-quality hospitality training. This initiative addresses regional challenges, enhances employability, and fosters sustainable livelihoods, contributing to inclusive growth and economic development. The launch of Project Buniyaad in Sikkim adds to its growing footprint and further highlights HIF’s continued focus on creating inclusive impact through skill-based interventions in partnerships with state governments.

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