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In the heart of rural India, where opportunities are often scarce and traditional roles restrict women’s potential, a silent revolution is taking place. Corporations, through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs, are fostering sustainable change, empowering rural women, and providing them with livelihoods that ensure financial independence and dignity. From self-help groups to entrepreneurial ventures, these initiatives are rewriting the narrative of rural India’s women, making them powerful agents of change. Here’s how some remarkable CSR programs are making a difference. Project Shakti: From Homemaker to Entrepreneur In the narrow bylanes of villages across India, the ripple effect of Project Shakti by Hindustan Unilever is unmistakable. Launched in 2001, this initiative has empowered over 136,000 rural women by transforming them into micro-entrepreneurs, called Shakti Ammas. With a simple model of distributing Unilever products directly to households, these women earn a steady income while serving as catalysts for local economic growth.

Let’s face it — for centuries, society has somehow managed to convince itself that women belong in kitchens, while men belong in boardrooms. But here’s the plot twist: women are now breaking barriers, from classrooms to conference rooms, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is playing a leading role in this empowering story. With companies realizing that gender equality isn’t just good karma but good business, CSR initiatives are tackling the gender gap in education and employment like never before. School Chale Hum, and So Does She! In rural India, where the concept of “Beti Padhao” often collides with “Beti Byaah Do” (marry off the daughter), many young girls drop out of school. But CSR programs are turning this tide. Take Project Nanhi Kali by the Mahindra Group, for instance. It supports the education of underprivileged girls, ensuring they not only stay in school but also shine in subjects like math

In a country where cricket is often revered as a religion, the rise of Indian female athletes across multiple disciplines has been nothing short of remarkable. From weightlifting to wrestling, boxing to badminton — Indian women have taken center stage, shattering stereotypes and inspiring millions. But behind these victories lies not just grit and determination but also the significant contribution of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Through focused investments, mentorship programs, and grassroots initiatives, companies are playing a pivotal role in nurturing the dreams of female athletes. Whether it’s identifying talent in remote villages or providing world-class training facilities, CSR initiatives are proving that empowerment through sports isn’t just a slogan — it’s a reality. Breaking Barriers, One Goal at a Time Indian sportswomen like P.V. Sindhu, Mary Kom, Manu Bhaker, and Mirabai Chanu have become household names, but their journeys were far from easy. Limited access to resources, societal pressures,

Choose a lifestyle that neither burns your pockets nor the planet The discounted prices you relished on black Friday sales may have cost the planet gasping for air and workers earning less than a thread on your sleeve. The new religion of online shopping has eased the retail shopping experience by bringing runways of fashion to the palm of your hand but at a social and environmental cost, not to be realized in the glittery malls and shopping plazas but in the mounting landfills and the hands of underaged and underpaid workers bleeding in to keep up with the pace of consumerism. The $2.4 trillion global industry, employing approximately 300 million people across the value chain, is the third-largest polluting industry after fuel and agribased businesses. According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the industry is the second-biggest consumer of water and is responsible for about 10% of global carbon

As India marches toward its centenary of independence in 2047, the ambitious vision of “Mission Viksit Bharat” emerges as a blueprint for transforming the nation into a developed, inclusive, and sustainable global power. While the government plays a pivotal role in this journey, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) serves as a critical partner in realizing this mission, aligning corporate endeavors with national goals of equitable development and sustainability. CSR, mandated by Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013, is not merely a compliance measure for businesses in India but an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to societal and environmental progress. With India striving for sustainable growth under initiatives like “Make in India,” “Digital India,” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” CSR can accelerate progress by addressing challenges in education, healthcare, rural development, and environmental sustainability. One of the most significant contributions of CSR lies in bridging socio-economic disparities. Through CSR initiatives, companies can provide access

The Kumbh Mela dates back thousands of years to ancient Hindu texts. It is profoundly rooted in the mythical account of the Samudra Manthan (ocean churning), during which drips of the nectar of immortality fell in four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. The Mahakumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious and cultural gatherings, is an event that captivates millions of pilgrims, tourists, and spiritual seekers. Held every 12 years, this grand spectacle attracts people from across the globe, offering a platform for faith, culture, and social integration. The Mahakumbh Mela 2025, which will take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from 13th Jan till 26th Feb 2025, is poised to be a transformative event, not only for the devotees but also for the corporate sector. As India prepares for this grand occasion, the intersection of the Mahakumbh Mela with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development

In 2024, numerous global organizations demonstrated a strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through various impactful initiatives. Here are some notable examples: Gucci (Kering Group) Gucci, under the Kering Group, adopted science-based targets to combat biodiversity loss as part of the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN). The company focused on protecting land and reducing freshwater usage through actions like water recycling and ecosystem protection. Cisco Cisco secured the top spot on PEOPLE’s 2024 ‘Companies That Care’ list for the second consecutive year. The company invested $130 million in homelessness prevention and implemented inclusion mandates for partners, reflecting its commitment to social justice and community support. United Airlines United Airlines advanced environmental sustainability in aviation with its United Airlines Ventures (UAV) Sustainable Flight Fund. This fund supports startups developing sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) made from waste materials, offering a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel without needing engine modifications. Gilead

The year 2024 witnessed Indian organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), addressing critical socio-economic and environmental challenges. Here is a brief overview of some of the remarkable CSR initiatives undertaken during the year: In 2024, several Indian organizations demonstrated exceptional commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) across various sectors. Here are some notable initiatives: Reliance Industries Limited Reliance Industries advanced its renewable energy projects, aiming to become India’s largest developer in this sector. The company announced plans to produce 100 GW of renewable energy by 2030 and commenced production of low-cost solar cells at its Jamnagar facility. Apollo Tyres Limited Apollo Tyres invested ₹15.7 crore in CSR initiatives, impacting over 1.23 million people. Their programs focused on healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. Adani Group The Adani Group committed to investing $100 billion over the next decade in green energy projects, including the development of 10 GW of

VISION: Our founder Sri. Ammembal Subba Rao Pai said that “A good Bank is not only the financial heart of the Community, but has also an obligation of helping in every manner to improve the economic conditions of the common people” has been the guiding principle for the Bank’s CSR activities. MISSION: We realize that CSR for our Bank is not just compliance, but it is a strategic business initiative to achieve sustainable triple bottom line growth. We understand that well-meaning and well implemented CSR will build corporate reputation and trust. We define our CSR objective as “to create a measurable positive impact on economic, social and environmental success and brand image of our Bank and group, through well designed, directed and sustainable interventions either own or in partnership with other reputed like-minded organizations in thematic areas of livelihood, education, health and environment aimed at improving the quality of life

Bhutani Infra: Pioneering Excellence in Real Estate Bhutani Infra, is a prominent real estate developer based in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Established in 1996, Bhutani Group is at the forefront of transforming urban townships and actively shaping the future of cities. With a track record of delivering over 20 projects and catering to more than 1 lakh happy customers, Bhutani Group has firmly established itself as a leader in delivering high-quality properties that effectively cater to the evolving needs and aspirations of modern India. Bhutani Group, led by visionary Mr. Ashish Bhutani, is at the forefront of real estate innovation in Delhi NCR, delivering both commercial and residential projects that redefine modern living. Notable developments include Cyberthum, a 50-storey commercial tower, and Alphathum, India’s most efficient business tower, both offering world-class facilities. The group’s commitment to quality ensures optimal returns for investors, while projects like Avenue 62 , Bhutani TechnoPark,