In a world where opportunities often remain out of reach for the deserving, GAIL (India) Limited has taken a bold step to rewrite the narrative. Guided by its unwavering dedication to creating a brighter and more equitable future, GAIL has made education the cornerstone of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) vision.
Recognizing that quality education holds the key to unlocking potential and driving sustainable development, GAIL’s initiatives address the most pressing challenges faced by underserved communities— education, employment, and healthcare. At the heart of these efforts lies a flagship program that is nothing short of transformative: GAIL Utkarsh.
GAIL Utkarsh: Igniting the Spark of Ambition
Launched in 2009, GAIL Utkarsh is more than a program; it’s a lifeline for economically disadvantaged yet immensely talented students. By targeting aspiring engineers from Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, this initiative opens the doors to India’s most prestigious institutions like IITs and NITs.
Through scholarships and high-quality coaching, GAIL Utkarsh ensures that no dream is abandoned due to financial constraints.
From its humble beginnings with 23 students, the program has grown into a movement of inspiration and achievement. By 2023-24, the initiative’s reach had expanded exponentially, with over 1379 students appearing for its written test—a testament to its impact and the hope it has sparked in countless young minds. With a success rate of 91%, more than 1250 students have gained admissions into prestigious IITs, NITs, and reputed engineering colleges across the nation. The true magic of GAIL Utkarsh lies in its ripple effect. Every student who steps into this program carries not just their aspirations but also the potential to uplift their communities. This initiative goes beyond academic success—it empowers individuals to transform their worlds, creating a legacy of progress and possibility.
As GAIL continues to fuel the dreams of the next generation, it stands firm in its belief that education is the most powerful catalyst for change. With every student it empowers, GAIL reaffirms its promise to build a future where no talent is wasted, and no dream is left unrealized. Because at GAIL, tomorrow isn’t just another day—it’s a world of endless possibilities.
Mr. Saiyam Saxena
Gail Utkarsh Super-100, Kanpur (2020-21) NIT Bhopal (Computer Science and Engineering) Software Engineer-1 (CISCO, Bengaluru)
As I reflect on my transformative journey with CSRL through Super-100, Kanpur Centre, I am reminded of the invaluable lessons learned and experiences gained here along with the outstanding academics. The coaching for IITJEE and mentorship I received at CSRL laid the foundation for my personal growth and professional success.
After the counselling, I was able to secure a seat at NIT Bhopal in my undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Engineering. I applied the principles learned at GUS-100, Kanpur to academic excellence. I actively engaged in various extracurricular activities as I was the Head of Sponsorship and Marketing at Indian Society for Technical Education, MANIT which honed my skills in teamwork, communication, and innovation. The strong foundation laid by CSRL enabled me to balance academic rigor with leadership responsibilities, ultimately leading to my graduation.
In the very starting of my final year of graduation, with consistency and hard work, I am able to secure a placement offer as a software Engineer -1 at CISCO, Bengaluru. And today I can proudly say that CSRL not only provides the best academic facilities but also empowers their students with many soft skills such as leadership, discipline and confidence.
As I embark on this new chapter in my journey, I remain committed to upholding the principles instilled in me by CSRL. I aspire to inspire others, paying it forward by sharing my experiences and insights gained through this transformative journey.
Mr. Gyaneshwar
GAIL Utkarsh Super 100, Kanpur (2019-20) IIT Ropar (Electrical Engineering), Batch: 2020-2024 Working as Software Engineer at Aviso AI
Raised in a humble household with three siblings, I quickly understood the importance of determination and hard work in overcoming life’s challenges. My father, employed at a paper factory, worked tirelessly to support us and ensure we had the essentials for a stable life. However, with limited financial resources, affording private coaching for competitive exams like JEE Advanced seemed like an unattainable dream.
From a young age, I had a strong passion for technology and problem-solving, and I aspired to study at one of the prestigious IITs. However, my dream felt distant due to our financial constraints. That’s when I came across CSRL—a program designed to support students from underserved backgrounds. It was a turning point in my life.
CSRL’s program was unlike anything I had encountered before. It not only provided access to quality coaching but also fostered a sense of community and belonging. The mentors were more than just educators—they were guides and motivators who believed in our potential even during moments when we doubted ourselves. Their innovative teaching methods, coupled with an emphasis on problem-solving and resilience, helped me grow both academically and personally.
The structured curriculum, mock exams, and continuous feedback at CSRL instilled in me the confidence to face the challenges of the JEE. Their holistic approach prepared me to handle not just the academic pressure but also the emotional and mental challenges that come with such high-stakes exams. When I finally secured admission to IIT Ropar, it felt like a dream come true—not just for me, but for my entire family. My father’s sacrifices and relentless efforts had paid off, and I could see the pride in his eyes.
My time at IIT Ropar was transformative, providing me with a world-class education and a strong foundation for my career. After graduating, I joined Aviso AI as a software engineer, where I now contribute to cutting-edge technology solutions. The journey from a modest background to a global company was made possible by the support and mentorship I received through CSRL.
Looking back, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities CSRL provided me. It wasn’t just an educational program; it was a catalyst that changed the trajectory of my life. Today, as I work on innovative projects and mentor others, I carry forward the lessons of determination, resilience, and gratitude that CSRL instilled in me. My story is a testament to the power of education and the impact of having someone believe in your dreams.
Mr. Gomati Prasad
GAIL Utkarsh Super 100, Uttar Pradesh (2017-2018) IIT Roorkee (Electrical Engineering) AAIAir Traffic Controller (Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad, Telangana)
I grew up in a small village called Nainajhala in Sant Kabir Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, as part of a large family of 15 members. My father, a stone mason, worked tirelessly to support us, but financial struggles were a constant part of our lives. Despite the challenges, I always held onto my dream of achieving something significant through education.
I aspired to study engineering at a prestigious institution like IIT. However, preparing for competitive exams like JEE seemed nearly impossible due to the lack of resources. That’s when GAIL Utkarsh Super 100, a collaboration between CSRL and GAIL, changed my life. Getting selected for this program in Kanpur was a turning point. The structured preparation, rigorous tests, and the unflinching support of the faculty and staff gave me the confidence to chase my dreams.
The program prepared me for the challenges of JEE, and in 2017, I cleared the JEE Advanced exam, earning admission to IIT Roorkee in Electrical Engineering. I still remember the questions people asked my father about how he would afford my college fees. GAIL’s scholarship of ₹60,000 for the first two years not only helped pay for my education but also gave my family the strength to believe in my journey.
In 2021, I graduated as an engineer, and I felt a strong desire to give back. I joined CSRL as an Academic Officer at the very centre where I had prepared for JEE. For three years, I worked with aspiring students, sharing my experiences and guiding them to achieve their dreams. While working at CSRL, I continued preparing for competitive exams. In 2024, I successfully cleared ICAR, SSC CGL, and AAI (Air Traffic Control) exams. I joined BARC Mumbai in September 2024, but my dream role came when I received the offer to join AAI as an Air Traffic Controller. I’ll be starting this new chapter at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad, in February 2025.
Looking back, I am filled with gratitude. GAIL Utkarsh Super 100 didn’t just provide me with academic support; it gave me hope and transformed my life. My father’s words, “Right practice will make you perfect,” stayed with me throughout this journey. The impact of CSRL and GAIL goes far beyond individual success stories like mine. They are creating opportunities for underprivileged students across the country, empowering us to dream big and achieve what once seemed impossible.
Mr. Saurabh Jha
GAIL Utkarsh Super-100, Kanpur (2019-20) IIT Delhi (Mathematics and Computing) Software Engineer (Samsung, Delhi )
Growing up in a small rural village, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of my family to make ends meet. My father, a hardworking farmer, ensured we had the basics, but financial constraints often overshadowed my dreams of pursuing quality education. Despite the odds, my fascination with mathematics and science kept my aspirations alive, fueling my ambition to study at the prestigious IIT Delhi.
The turning point in my journey came when I learned about CSRL through a senior from my school. The initiative is a beacon of hope for students from underprivileged backgrounds, offering them the tools and guidance to break barriers and chase their dreams. I applied to the program with hope, and being selected felt like the first step toward a brighter future.
At CSRL, the rigorous academic framework and the unwavering support of the faculty transformed my potential into performance. The structured curriculum, coupled with regular mock tests and feedback sessions, honed my problem-solving abilities and boosted my confidence. The program’s focus on conceptual clarity was pivotal in my preparation for the highly competitive JEE Advanced exam.
CSRL instilled in me a sense of discipline and resilience. The collaborative environment, where students and mentors worked together with a shared purpose, was truly inspiring. The result of this combined effort was life-changing: I secured admission to IIT Delhi.
This achievement was not just a personal milestone but also a moment of immense pride for my family and my community. It reinforced the belief that with the right guidance and determination, even the most ambitious dreams are within reach.
CSRL’s collaboration with GAIL exemplifies the transformative power of education and corporate social responsibility. Together, they have not only opened doors for countless underprivileged students like me but also demonstrated the profound impact of investing in human potential. My story is just one among many that stand as a testament to their vision and commitment.
Today, as I embark on this new chapter at IIT Delhi, I carry with me not just the hopes of my family but also the gratitude for the opportunities made possible by CSRL and GAIL. Their combined efforts have not just transformed my life—they have empowered a ripple of change that will continue to inspire generations.
At IIT Delhi, I gained exposure to advanced technology and was challenged to think critically and innovate. The rigorous academic environment and diverse community helped me grow both professionally and personally. Upon graduating, I joined Samsung in Delhi as a software engineer, where I now contribute to projects aimed at delivering impactful technological solutions. Looking back, the role of CSRL in my journey is undeniable. The program provided not just academic guidance but also encouragement and mentorship.
Mr. Vikas Singh
Gail Utkarsh Super-100 ,Kanpur (2020-21) IIT Roorkee (Electronic and Communication)
I hail from Bargadwa, a small village in the district of Maharajganj, near Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. My father, Mr. Jayhind Singh, is a farmer, and our family’s livelihood depends entirely on agriculture. Growing up in a modest household, I always dreamt of pursuing higher education and building a better future for myself and my family.
After completing senior secondary school, I began preparing for admission to a state government engineering college, hoping to secure a seat in a reputable institution. However, my performance in the UPTU exam fell short of expectations, leaving me disheartened.
The first COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 was a particularly challenging time for my family. Financial constraints made it nearly impossible to consider taking a drop year or enrolling in expensive coaching programs, which typically cost ₹2-3 lakhs. Even online lectures, priced at ₹10-15K, were beyond our reach. I hesitated to approach my father about these expenses, fully aware of our financial limitations.
At that critical juncture, a chance encounter changed my life. An uncle visiting our home mentioned CSRL, an initiative providing free, high-quality coaching for students from underprivileged backgrounds. His daughter was already enrolled in CSRL Gail Utkarsh Super 100 in Kanpur, and he encouraged me to apply. With his support and guidance, I was fortunate to secure admission to the program. It felt like a dream come true—a glimmer of hope during a difficult time. Joining CSRL marked a turning point in my life. The exceptional faculty created a supportive and transformative learning environment. They went above and beyond to ensure we mastered concepts in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Their dedication wasn’t limited to academics; they provided invaluable mental and emotional support, helping us navigate the challenges of JEE preparation.
Whenever I or my peers struggled with focus or selfdoubt, the faculty and project managers personally stepped in. Their encouragement and belief in our potential reignited our determination and kept us motivated. The teachers were incredibly dedicated, often staying late after classes to address our doubts. They didn’t just teach—they inspired us with life lessons and real-world examples that built our confidence and resilience. Their approach made learning engaging and accessible, helping me overcome my initial hesitation and nervousness.
The support extended beyond the classroom. The office staff were equally supportive, assisting with logistical and financial challenges. On several occasions, they helped arrange funds, often offering assistance from their own pockets, reassuring me to repay only when it was convenient. Their kindness and empathy made a profound impact on me. Today, with the unwavering support of CSRL Gail Utkarsh Super 100, I have achieved what once seemed impossible—I secured admission to IIT Roorkee in Electrical Engineering. This milestone has brought immense pride and joy to my family, my village, and everyone who stood by me.
