CSR News

Union Bank of India announced a noble initiative of sponsoring a visually challenged staff for her Mt. Everest Expedition 2025 underscoring its dedication to fostering inclusivity and empowering bold aspirations. A. Manimekhalai, Managing Director and CEO of Union Bank of India lauded Chhonzin  Angmo’s determination and indomitable spirit, extending heartfelt best wishes for her success in the expedition.  Chhonzin is set to become one of the first specially-abled mountain climbers to conquer Mt. Everest.  A. Manimekhalai also formally presented a sponsorship cheque of Rs. 56 lakhs to Angmo at the bank’s Delhi zonal office to support her journey. Chhonzin Angmo’s selection for the Mt. Everest Expedition 2025 follows her successful participation in the Mt. Everest Base Camp Expedition in October 2024. A seasoned athlete, Angmo has competed in multiple sporting disciplines, including track events (100m, 400m, 5km, and 10km races), judo, kabaddi, and football, securing silver and gold medals at

The youth in India, particularly those from economically weaker sections and other intersecting identities, continue to struggle with attaining economic self-sufficiency. With limited job opportunities and the waning appeal of low-paying city jobs, young people—especially women—are increasingly seeking alternative means of livelihood, often within their own communities. Studies have shown that youth in India possess an entrepreneurial mindset, as well as the necessary skills, local knowledge, and motivation to develop viable solutions that can truly make a difference in their communities. However, insufficient entrepreneurial training, mentorship, and financial support are the roadblocks for many of these individuals to convert their ideas into viable businesses. Sadly, without formal business incubation, access to markets, and funding, many of such talented young people are unable to achieve their full potential. Bridging the Gap: The Youth Innovation and Action Lab (YIAL) To respond to this gap, YIAL was created as a response to the

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, addressed the India Energy Week 2025 at Yashobhoomi via video message today. He emphasized that the attendees are not just part of the Energy Week, but are also integral to India’s energy ambitions. He extended a warm welcome to all participants, including distinguished guests from abroad, highlighting their crucial role in this event. Highlighting global perspectives that the 21st century belongs to India, Shri Modi remarked, “India is driving not only its growth but also the growth of the world, with the energy sector playing a significant role”. He emphasized that India’s energy ambitions are built on five pillars: harnessing resources, encouraging innovation among brilliant minds, economic strength and political stability, strategic geography making energy trade attractive and easier, and commitment to global sustainability. Stressing that the next two decades are crucial for realizing a Viksit Bharat, Shri Modi noted that several transformative milestones

The 2025 Partnership Forum of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC Partnership Forum), held on 5 February 2025, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York marked the first major event of the ECOSOC calendar. The one-day mega event, chaired by the ECOSOC President, H.E. Mr. Bob Rae, convened under the theme, “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind.” The forum placed a special emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that will be reviewed at the 2025 high-level political forum on sustainable development (HLPF), namely Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being); Goal 5 (Gender Equality); Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth); Goal 14 (Life Below Water); and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). In his opening remarks, H.E. Mr. Bob Rae said, “The Pact for the Future, as well as the

The Union Budget is one of the most anticipated financial statements in India, outlining the government’s plans for economic growth, social welfare, and corporate governance. The Budget 2025-26 has significant implications for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, affecting how companies allocate their CSR funds and contribute to national development. In this article, we will analyze key provisions of the budget from a CSR perspective and explore how they impact businesses, NGOs, and communities. Increased Allocation for Social Sectors One of the highlights of Budget 2025-26 is the increased allocation for healthcare, education, and rural development. These sectors align closely with CSR objectives, offering companies new opportunities to collaborate with the government and amplify their impact. For instance, the budget has raised funding for the National Education Mission by 15%, emphasizing skill development programs. Companies in the IT and manufacturing sectors can partner with vocational training institutes to bridge the skill