Industry leaders and policymakers engaged in strategic discussions on strengthening food security in India at the workshop convened by Tetra Pak in collaboration with ICCE and Primus Partners

The event commenced with a keynote address by Shri Siraj Hussain, Former Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries and Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Asking the audience a pertinent question - “How can we bring innovation and technology to build a more resilient, efficient and much more sustainable supply chain in India?”- he highlighted that India’s food security challenge extends beyond increasing production to minimizing food losses through improved preservation, processing and supply-chain systems. He stressed the importance of leveraging innovation and technology to strengthen the resilience, efficiency and sustainability of India’s food systems.

Dr. Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), ICAR, then took the stage and spoke about how the growth in food production is a testament to the resilience of India’s agricultural system. Going forward, the focus must be on reducing post-harvest losses from the current 15–20% to around 5% by 2047, while improving nutrient-use efficiency, mechanization and water-use efficiency. “At present, overall post-harvest losses are around 15–20%, and we want to reduce them to around 5% by 2047,” he added.

Strengthening the ‘critical middle’

A central theme emerging from the discussions was the need to strengthen the ‘critical middle’ of the food value chain- the infrastructure and systems connecting agricultural production with consumption, including aggregation, processing, packaging, storage, logistics and distribution.

The discussions underscored the importance of strengthening integrated food systems through better coordination across stakeholders, improving farmer access to technology and markets, adopting digital solutions for supply chain efficiency, promoting circular economy approaches to food systems, and scaling evidence-based interventions that simultaneously address food security, climate resilience, and food loss and waste reduction.

Other key priorities emerging from the roundtable included:

• Strengthening food security and resilience across India’s food systems.

• Reducing food loss and waste through improved post-harvest management, processing, packaging, and logistics.

• Investing in processing and packaging infrastructure and innovative technologies to extend shelf life, improve food availability, and reduce losses across the food value chain.

• Leveraging food processing, sustainable packaging, and digital technologies to improve supply chain efficiency and minimize losses.

Building a stronger evidence base for action

From a policy perspective, participants highlighted the need for agencies to collect more granular, ground-level data on food loss and waste to enable better identification of hotspots, inform targeted interventions, and track progress. The discussions also emphasized that, without specific and measurable targets for reducing Food loss and Waste (FLW)efforts to address the issue are likely to remain only partially successful. It was therefore underscored that the need to consider the inclusion of FLW reduction targets in India’s NDCs, alongside greater recognition of innovative technologies in food processing and packaging that can help India achieve these targets.

Tetra Pak and NIFTEM research on the climate impact of food loss and waste (Link: Food loss and waste | Tetra Pak India)

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the NIFTEM - Tetra Pak report on ‘GHG Emissions from Food Loss and Waste,’ which presents research on the environmental implications of food loss and waste in India and reinforces the importance of reducing FLW as a pathway to improving food security while advancing climate action

The session concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration across sectors, strengthen evidence-based policymaking and data collection, promote investment and innovation across the critical middle of the food value chain, and identify actionable next steps to improve food security, reduce food loss and waste, and build a more sustainable food ecosystem for India.

About Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is a world-leading food processing and packaging solutions company. Working with our customers and suppliers, we provide access to safe, nutritious food for hundreds of millions of people in more than 160 countries every day. With over 24,000 employees worldwide, we commit to making food safe and available everywhere, and we promise to protect what’s good: food, people and the planet.

More information about Tetra Pak is available at www.tetrapak.com.

Applications for the 10th N.S. Hema Memorial Awards, instituted by APD, are open until August 20, 2026

Carrying that vision forward, APD has announced that applications for the 10th edition of the N.S. Hema Memorial Awards are now open until August 20, 2026. The awards recognise organisations advancing disability inclusion across South India and Maharashtra.

Over the years, the awards have recognised organisations such as People with Hearing Impaired Network (PHIN), Saadhya Trust for Social Development, Sri Arunodayam Charitable Trust, and Atchayam Trust, showcasing innovative, community-led models in disability inclusion.

This year introduces two award categories:

• Disability Inclusive Health

• Disability Inclusive Livelihood

With a total prize pool of Rs. 2.5 lakh, the awards go beyond financial recognition. Winners and selected high-potential organisations will gain access to strategic co-funding opportunities, capacity-building cohorts, and peer-learning networks designed to strengthen organisational resilience and amplify long-term impact.

“Organisations closest to the communities they serve often bring a deep understanding of what inclusion looks like in practice. Their work is shaped by lived realities, local needs and the aspirations of the people they work alongside. The N.S. Hema Memorial Awards are an opportunity to recognise this leadership and create pathways for organisations to access the resources, networks and opportunities they need to strengthen their impact,” said Sukanto Aich, CEO, Association of People with Disability (APD).

Applications are open to legally registered non-profit organisations (Trusts or Societies) that hold valid 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 registrations, have 3–10 years of active field operations, an annual budget of up to Rs. 2.5 crore depending on the award category, and an active presence in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, or Maharashtra.

Entries will be evaluated by an independent jury on the basis of:

• Impact evidence

• Community-led model

• Innovation and scaling potential

• Governance practices

Nominate until August 20, 2026.

Apply here: events.apps.apd-india.org

For detailed guidelines and eligibility criteria, visit www.apd-india.org.

About the Association of People with Disability

APD is a pioneering non-profit organisation, established in 1959 by the late Ms N. S. Hema. APD has impacted over 6 lakh People with Disabilities from underprivileged communities from remote, rural, and poor socioeconomic backgrounds. Various programs by APD cover 18 out of 21 disabilities stated in the RPWD Act 2016. With a diverse and inclusive team of over 230 members (45% Women and 30% PwD’s), APD reaches out to over 60,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries annually. APD is managed by a professional team of developmental and technical experts overseen by an eminent Board of Governors and Trustees. The Association maintains the highest standards of governance, has been acknowledged by multiple donors and is accredited by independent agencies like the TISS, Credibility Alliance, RCI, and NIPMAN Foundation.

As India commemorates its landmark 80th Independence Day, EuroKids Preschool, India's leading preschool, brought together 1,25,000+ young learners with 15,000+ educators across 2,000+ centres in 550+ cities for one of the country's largest preschool Independence Day celebrations. Through a specially curated experiential learning program, children explored the values of unity, diversity, pride and responsible citizenship in ways that were engaging, age-appropriate and deeply meaningful.

Proudly dressed in their little patriotic spirit, EuroKids children celebrated Independence Day with pride and unity

For EuroKids, the milestone carried a message closer to home. Just as India's 80-year journey has been built one formative step at a time, a child's own journey towards independence, confidence and self-reliance begins far earlier than most parents realise. Early childhood research suggests that nearly 90% of a child's brain development takes place between the ages of two and six, making these years the most receptive window for building language, social skills, emotional regulation and a sense of identity. It is a belief central to EuroKids' philosophy: that starting structured, play-based learning at age 2, rather than waiting for formal schooling to begin, gives children the strongest foundation to grow into confident, independent individuals.

At a time when educators and parents alike are placing greater emphasis on nurturing character alongside academics, EuroKids transformed the national celebration into an immersive learning experience where children didn't just celebrate Independence Day, they experienced its values through storytelling, movement, collaborative play and hands-on exploration. Designed as part of the brand's month-long Awesome August initiative, the celebrations reflected the evolving role of early childhood education in helping children build empathy, confidence, respect, and a sense of belonging from an early age.

Across EuroKids centres, children participated in a vibrant Tricolour Kite Festival, sending colourful kites carrying messages of hope, unity and freedom into the skies. Younger learners, some as young as two, discovered the significance of the national flag through interactive tricolour sensory play, while a specially designed patriotic obstacle course featuring saffron hoops, a green tunnel and an Ashoka Chakra spin, combined physical activity with purposeful learning, encouraging teamwork, resilience and confidence, even in the very youngest of EuroKids' toddlers.

The celebrations also featured a Mini Patriotic Parade, where children proudly marched with the national flag, and the 'Unity in Diversity' Ramp Walk, where they represented different Indian states in traditional attire, celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage. Through these collaborative experiences, children developed a deeper appreciation of India's diversity while understanding that unity remains one of the nation's greatest strengths.

KVS Seshasai, CEO, Pre-K Division, Lighthouse Learning (EuroKids), said, “As India celebrates 80 years of Independence, we have a unique opportunity to help the next generation understand the values that have shaped our nation. Children begin developing their understanding of identity, empathy and belonging as early as the age of two, making these formative years the ideal time to introduce them to the importance of unity, respect and responsible citizenship. At EuroKids, we believe these values, and the quiet confidence to think and act independently, are best nurtured not through instruction alone, but through joyful, immersive experiences that encourage children to observe, participate, question and connect with the world around them, right from their very first years at preschool.”

The celebrations formed part of Awesome August, EuroKids' flagship month-long learning initiative that brings together key cultural, environmental and social occasions, including Friendship Day, Independence Day, Sustainability Week and Raksha Bandhan, to help children develop life skills through meaningful experiences. By integrating these celebrations into everyday learning, EuroKids enables children to build empathy, collaboration, curiosity and social awareness while creating lasting memories with their peers, teachers and families.

Rooted in Heureka – The Visible Thinking Curriculum, inspired by Harvard University's Project Zero and aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Independence Day celebrations reflected EuroKids' commitment to experiential learning that nurtures cognitive, emotional and social development from the toddler years onward. Rather than viewing national festivals as standalone events, the curriculum transforms them into opportunities for children, from age 2, to think critically, express themselves confidently and develop a lifelong appreciation for India's culture, diversity and shared values.

As the nation celebrated 80 years of Independence, EuroKids reaffirmed its commitment to giving children the Right Start to their own journey of independence, one that begins as early as age 2 and prepares them not only for school, but for life. By bringing together children and their families in one of India's largest preschool Independence Day celebrations, the brand continues to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire young learners to grow into confident, compassionate and responsible citizens of tomorrow.

To mark this historic milestone, EuroKids is offering parents a festive Independence Day fee benefit on new enrolments for toddlers as young as two years old, giving them the Right Start to their learning journey. Visit your nearest EuroKids centre to know more.

About EuroKids Preschool

EuroKids, India's Leading Preschool Brand, has revolutionised early childhood education for over 25 years across 2,000+ preschools in 550 cities and three countries. With the launch of its latest 8th curriculum, ‘Heureka’, EuroKids introduces the Visible Thinking Curriculum, based on Harvard University’s Project Zero and aligned with NEP 2020. Heureka empowers children with critical and creative thinking skills through 20 structured Thinking Routines, nurturing holistic growth across Emotional, Physical, Intellectual, Creative, and Spiritual dimensions. Supported by the Buddy’s World app, which supports balanced cognitive development, EuroKids remains at the forefront of early childhood education, helping children develop essential life skills from as early as age 2. Its successful franchise model also enables aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive in the education sector, expanding access to quality education.

The Group

Lighthouse Learning Group, formerly known as EuroKids International, is India's leading Early Childhood & K-12 Education group, backed by global investment firm KKR. Driven by its purpose to unlock human potential by igniting the love for learning through its institutions, which include leading brands like EuroKids Preschool, Kangaroo Kids Preschool, EuroSchool, Billabong High International, Centre Point Group of Schools, Heritage International Xperiential School, Heritage Xperiential Learning School and Finland International School Maldives. Nurturing over 200,000 students every day, Lighthouse Learning emphasises a 'Child First' philosophy, innovative pedagogy, and child safety. With 2,000 Preschools and 60 K-12 Schools, it empowers 1,850 women entrepreneurs and employs a direct and indirect workforce of over 25,000 people.

M3M Foundation planting over 1 lakh trees this monsoon taking forward ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’

The Foundation aims to plant 1 lakh+ trees, engaging 11 Panchayats across identified areas of Gurugram and Tauru Block with local communities, including locations in and around the Aravalli landscape.

The initiative will begin across Ghata, Kadarpur, Ullawas, Ramgarh, Bahrampur and Bailyawas, bringing local communities together around a shared vision for greener and more sustainable villages. Local leaders Govardhan from Ghata, Satbir from Ullawas, Sanjeet from Kadarpur and Giriraj from Bahrampur are supporting the initiative and helping mobilise residents to participate in the plantation and take collective responsibility for the trees. Their involvement reflects Sankalp’s belief that lasting environmental change is strongest when it is led and nurtured at the community level.

The initiative is designed to make the most of the monsoon season while ensuring that plantation translates into sustained environmental action. Communities and Panchayats will be mobilised not only to participate in planting but also to take responsibility for the subsequent care, protection and nurturing of the trees, creating a stronger foundation for their long-term survival.

The campaign builds on M3M Foundation’s experience of connecting environmental conservation with an emotional sense of responsibility. Inspired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, Sankalp introduced “Ek Ped Ghar Ke Bachche Ya Bachchi Ke Naam” across villages of Tauru Block in Nuh, Haryana. The initiative encourages families to dedicate a tree to every son or daughter, creating an emotional bond between the family and the tree and encouraging them to nurture it as it grows.

Taking this philosophy forward, the new plantation drive will bring 11 Panchayats and communities together in a wider stewardship effort, extending responsibility beyond the day of plantation and making local participation central to sustaining the green cover created through the campaign.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, “The monsoon gives us the opportunity to put thousands of saplings into the ground, but the real responsibility begins once they are planted. A tree needs more than soil and rain, it needs people who are willing to care for it. ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ has shown us the power of connecting environmental action with emotion, and through Sankalp we are turning that connection into community stewardship. With 1 lakh+ trees being planted across 11 Panchayats in Gurugram, we want every sapling to have a story, a community behind it and the opportunity to grow into a lasting green legacy. Our aim is not simply to plant more trees, but to inspire more people to take ownership of the environment around them.”

The initiative adds to the significant environmental footprint of Sankalp, which has facilitated the plantation of more than 6.7 lakh trees across six states, including over 1.70 lakh trees across 54 Panchayats. The programme has also undertaken Miyawaki forests, orchard-based agroforestry, restoration of degraded landscapes, biodiversity enhancement and groundwater recharge, reflecting an integrated approach to ecological restoration.

The latest campaign will contribute to strengthening green cover across Gurugram while supporting the ecological landscape around the Aravallis. By involving communities directly, it also seeks to foster everyday environmental stewardship and reinforce the principles of Mission LiFE and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

With the monsoon planting season underway, 1 lakh+ trees targeted and 11 Panchayats across identified areas of Gurugram and coming together, M3M Foundation aims to turn a seasonal opportunity into a lasting environmental commitment, creating greener spaces today and communities that continue to nurture them tomorrow.

Through Sankalp, M3M Foundation believes that the strongest green legacy is one that communities plant, protect and pass on.

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Bisleri's Bottles for Change volunteers assemble for waste collection during the Pune Wari Pilgrimage, 2026

The campaign reached over two lakh devotees across key locations within the PCMC jurisdiction, including Akurdi, Pimpri, Dapodi and other stretches along the Wari route. Through on-ground information, education and communication (IEC) activities, volunteers encouraged devotees to adopt responsible waste-disposal practices, segregate plastic waste at source, and understand the importance of recycling. Around 300 volunteers participated in cleaning a 15 km stretch during the three-day campaign, helping collect approximately 6 metric tonnes (MT) of plastic waste, all of which will be channelled for recycling, supporting the circular economy. The initiative helped create a cleaner and safer pilgrimage experience for an estimated 2 lakh + devotees.

Bottles for Change volunteers collected 6 MT of plastic waste for recycling during the 3-day pilgrimage

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. K. Ganesh, Director - Sustainability & Corporate Affairs Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., said, "The Wari is not only a celebration of faith but also an opportunity to inspire collective action towards environmental responsibility. Through Bottles for Change, we continue to work with local authorities, volunteers and citizens to demonstrate that large public gatherings can successfully adopt responsible plastic waste management practices. Our focus is on creating long-term behavioural change while ensuring that recyclable plastic is brought back into the circular economy."

Hon'ble Shri Ravi Babasaheb Landge, Mayor, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, said, "The 'Nirmal Wari, Swachh Wari' initiative which conveys the message of cleanliness through action amidst the sacred atmosphere of Jagadguru Santshreshtha Tukaram Maharaj’s Palkhi procession is highly commendable. The efforts undertaken by Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. and 300 volunteers will certainly help keep the city of Pimpri-Chinchwad clean. Cleanliness is a collective responsibility, and such social initiatives will foster greater awareness among citizens regarding the conservation of Mother Earth.”

The Pune Wari campaign builds on Bisleri's long-term commitment to strengthening plastic circularity in Maharashtra. Under its association with PCMC, Bottles for Change has collected and sent over 310 metric tonnes (MT) of plastic waste for recycling between April 2024 and June 2026. The initiative has also sensitised more than 40,000 citizens on responsible plastic waste management and installed 25 Benches of Dreams across the city.

Bisleri's Bottles for Change initiative has reached over 12.4 lakh citizens through awareness programmes and enabled the collection and recycling of 13,905 MT of plastic waste through its CSR initiatives across Maharashtra. The Pune Wari campaign reinforces Bisleri's commitment to make responsible recycling and plastic circularity a community-led movement.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Signify's Jagmag Pathshala benefits over 18,200 tribal children across Andhra Pradesh

The project enhanced learning environments across the district's tribal welfare schools through the installation of energy-efficient ceiling fans, tube lights, and outdoor lighting systems. These upgrades have created brighter, more comfortable, and safer spaces for learning, improving classroom visibility, student well-being, and overall school functionality.

Better-lit, well-ventilated classrooms have contributed to improved attendance, higher student engagement, and greater participation in both academic and sports activities. Enhanced outdoor lighting has further strengthened campus safety, ensuring students and staff benefit from a more secure, inclusive, and enabling environment throughout the day.

Speaking on the initiative, Nikhil Gupta, Head of Strategy & Marketing, Signify, Greater India said, "Every child deserves a classroom that is safe, comfortable, and conducive to learning. Through this CSR initiative, we have been able to address an essential but critical need in tribal welfare schools across Parvathipuram Manyam. Bringing reliable lighting and ventilation to these schools reflects our continued commitment to using innovation for brighter lives and a better world, especially for communities that need it the most."

The initiative reinforces Signify's commitment to harnessing the power of light to create brighter, safer, and more inclusive communities. As part of the company's growing portfolio of CSR initiatives across India, it reflects Signify's continued focus on advancing education, enhancing community well-being, and enabling meaningful social impact through innovative and sustainable lighting solutions.
 

About Signify  
Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products, connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating.  News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

Fortis Mumbai launches ‘Har Ghar Hero’ initiative to build CPR-ready Mumbai with (L-R) Dr Gore, Dr Gaikwad, Dr Singh, Hon. Ms. Hemangini Patil, Dr S. Narayani, Dr Gore & Dr Nabar

The initiative was inaugurated by Hon. Ms. Hemangini Patil, Regional Transport Officer, Thane Region, and Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head – Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra. They were joined by Fortis Mumbai's leadership team and emergency medicine specialists — Dr. Sandeep Gore (Director, Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital Mulund), Dr. Amit Nabar (Director, Emergency & Community Medicine, S. L. Raheja Hospital, Mahim - A Fortis Associate), Dr. Preetam Gaikwad (Head, Emergency Medicine, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi - A Fortis Network Hospital) and Dr. Sudhir Gore (Head, Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital Kalyan), who spoke about the importance of building CPR preparedness beyond hospital settings. The launch was also supported by Dr. Manjeet Singh Arora, Senior Consultant-General Physician, Fortis Hospital Mulund, who has spearheaded CPR trainings in the community for the past two decades, and won multiple accolades for his contribution to community preparedness.

In a sudden cardiac emergency, the first few minutes are often decisive. Through 'Har Ghar Hero', Fortis Hospitals Mumbai aims to bring CPR awareness and training closer to communities, building a wider network of people who are prepared to act until professional medical help arrives. What sets the initiative apart is its scale and reach; it is designed to unite residents from every corner of the city, from South Mumbai to the far suburbs, in a single, sustained movement toward a common goal - a CPR-ready Mumbai.

As part of the initiative, Fortis Hospitals Mumbai will partner with civic bodies, utility and service providers, transport operators, quick-commerce platforms, housing societies, corporate hubs, educational institutions and other community groups to expand CPR awareness across the city. The focus for the coming year would be on equipping 2 lakh Mumbaikars of all ages and backgrounds with essential CPR skills, and building a growing base of trained first responders who can act swiftly in a cardiac emergency, before EMS teams arrive.

Fortis Mumbai will also launch a community perception survey to gauge current levels of emergency preparedness among Mumbaikars, and awareness about application of Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR and use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). These insights that will help identify gaps and shape future training efforts.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. S. Narayani, Business Head – Fortis Hospitals, Maharashtra, said, "With 'Har Ghar Hero', Fortis Mumbai is taking an important step towards making CPR preparedness a community priority. In a cardiac emergency, the first responder is often not a healthcare professional but a family member, colleague, neighbour or passer-by. Our aim is to build a culture where every household has at least one person who knows what to do when it matters most. Through sustained partnerships and community-led training, we hope to create a city that is better prepared to respond to emergencies."

Over the past few years, emergency medicine specialists from Fortis Hospitals Mumbai have collectively trained and certified 1.5 lakh Mumbaikars in CPR, and engaged with 1,000+ housing societies, 350+ corporate set-ups, 300+ colleges and schools, 100+ government bodies and civic institutions, and 600+ NGOs and community groups. Through 'Har Ghar Hero', Fortis Mumbai aims to build a sustained movement around CPR awareness, growing a network of trained citizens who can act as 'Heroes' in the moments when immediate action makes the difference.

To get your workplace or housing society trained and certified, call 022 4111 4111.

About Fortis Healthcare Limited  

Fortis Healthcare Limited is a leading integrated healthcare delivery service provider in India. The healthcare verticals of the company primarily comprise hospitals, diagnostics, and day care specialty facilities. Currently, the company operates 36 healthcare facilities (including JVs and O&M facilities) across 12 states and union territories. The Company’s network comprises over 6,000 operational beds (including O&M beds) and 400 diagnostics labs.

For more information, please visit www.fortishealthcare.com/

About IHH HEALTHCARE (“IHH”)

IHH is a leading multinational healthcare provider shaping the future of care. Driven by our aspiration to Care. For Good., we unite medical excellence and innovation, pushing boundaries through our trusted brands such as Acibadem, Gleneagles, Fortis, Island, Mount Elizabeth, Pantai, Parkway and Prince Court. Across 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Türkiye, India and Greater China, our 70,000-strong team delivers world-class excellence every day, within and beyond our 140 healthcare facilities, including more than 80 hospitals. Our comprehensive services span the full healthcare continuum, from primary and ambulatory to quaternary care, complemented by diagnostics, imaging, rehabilitation, telehealth and home care. In partnership with our stakeholders, IHH is advancing value-based care, building a sustainable healthcare ecosystem and creating meaningful impact, as we work towards our vision to become the world’s most trusted healthcare services network.

For more information, please visit  www.ihhhealthcare.com

The report, A Decade of Green Spending: What Rs. 17,000 Crores of Environmental CSR Reveals About Corporate India, lands at a moment when India, ranked the 9th most climate-vulnerable nation in the Climate Risk Index 2026, is under growing pressure to align corporate giving with climate resilience goals under Viksit Bharat 2047 and its 2070 Net Zero commitment.

Environmental CSR spending fell to a post-pandemic low of 4.4% of total CSR outlay in FY2020-21, as companies redirected funds towards health and relief efforts. It has since recovered, stabilising at 8.4% of total CSR spend in FY2023-24, still well behind enduring priorities such as education and health. The report notes that with an estimated $2.5 trillion needed to meet India's Nationally Determined Contributions by 2030, and $10 trillion required to build a climate-resilient economy by 2047, CSR capital has a distinct role to play in bridging gaps where public systems face capacity or resource constraints.

While environmental CSR is growing, corporate philanthropy is not yet fully aligned with India's highest climate risks, especially sectors with the greatest environmental footprint.

A Concentrated Funding Base

Just one out of five companies that report CSR spending direct any of it towards the environment. Less than a fifth of smallest CSR spenders allocate funds towards climate action. In contrast, nearly all of the companies with CSR budgets over Rs. 50 crore reserve a portion of their outlay for environment-related projects.

European-headquartered MNCs operating in India show markedly higher participation (about two-thirds) than Indian companies (54%), a gap the report links to the influence of stringent European regulatory frameworks, including the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

Growth Without Scale

The growth in environmental CSR is being driven almost entirely by a rising number of small and mid-sized projects rather than larger, systemic investments.

The number of environmental CSR projects grew 20% over the past three years, while aggregate spending grew only 6% in the same period, leaving the average project size flat at Rs. 45 lakh. Only 29 projects in FY2024 carried budgets of Rs. 10 crore or more, barely up from 22 such projects in FY2020-21.

Divergence In Environmental Footprint And Funding

The report finds a marked disconnect between industries' environmental footprint and their environmental CSR behaviour. Sectors with some of the largest environmental footprints, including Energy, Mining, and Oil, Gas, Coal & Petroleum, show relatively low participation in environmental CSR. Even where companies in these sectors do undertake environmental initiatives, they allocate only 5-7% of their CSR budgets towards environmental causes, well below several consumer-facing industries. By contrast, consumer-facing sectors such as FMCG, Food and Beverages, and Automotive, despite a comparatively lighter environmental footprint, allocate over 10% of CSR spend to environmental causes, a pattern the report attributes to brand positioning and consumer-facing ESG commitments rather than direct impact alignment.

Climate-Vulnerable Districts Underfunded

 The report's starkest finding concerns geography. Nearly 45% of environmental CSR funding is directed to pan-India or multi-state programmes, and a further 22% flows to Tier-1 cities, leaving just over a third of funding for more localised, place-based interventions.

States including Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh, all classified as highly climate-vulnerable, receive less than Rs. 25 per capita in environmental CSR. The pattern sharpens at the district level: among India's 50 most climate-vulnerable districts, 30 of them received only 1% (Rs. 106 crore) of total environmental CSR spending over the past three years, with a handful of districts in Assam alone accounting for 60% of what little vulnerable-region funding exists.

Traditional Themes Dominate

Among high-value environmental CSR projects (Rs. 50 lakh and above) in FY2023-24, Water Management (15%), Renewable Energy (12%), and Biodiversity (11%) together account for 38% of all high-value project funding. Air quality, despite its acute public health relevance, received just Rs. 14 crore, around 5% of the high-value project pool reflecting the longer gestation periods and more complex measurement frameworks associated with system-level environmental interventions.

The report identifies Rs. 243 crore directed over the past three years towards emerging themes such as public transport and climate.

Among high-value environmental CSR projects (Rs. 50 lakh and above) in FY2023-24, Water Management (15%), Renewable Energy (12%), and Biodiversity (11%) together account for 38% of all high-value project funding. Air quality, despite its acute public health relevance, received just Rs. 14 crore, around 5% of the high-value project pool reflecting the longer gestation periods and more complex measurement frameworks associated with system-level environmental interventions.

The report identifies Rs. 243 crore directed over the past three years towards emerging themes such as public transport, climate governance and carbon MRV, and circular economy alongside nearly Rs. 500 crore embedded within Health, Livelihoods, and Education CSR programmes that integrate water, clean energy, and climate-resilience programmes.

What This Means For Corporate India

"India's climate ambitions will require every form of capital to work more strategically. As climate risks increasingly affect business operations, supply chains and communities, CSR has an opportunity to evolve from project-based philanthropy into catalytic capital, supporting climate-vulnerable regions, strengthening ecosystem resilience, and complementing broader sustainability and ESG efforts," said Srikrishna Sridhar Murthy, Co-founder and CEO, Sattva Consulting.

Looking Ahead

The report's authors argue that as ESG disclosure norms tighten and climate risk becomes more immediate for business operations, CSR has an opportunity to evolve from a fragmented, theme-led funding mechanism into a more targeted, catalytic lever for climate resilience. It should align more closely with industry's environmental footprint, channel funding towards India's most climate-vulnerable geographies, and complement existing project-led giving with longer-horizon, systemic interventions in areas such as air quality, circular economy, and climate governance. Realising this shift, the report notes, will require coordinated, collective action across corporates, philanthropy, and ecosystem actors, rather than standalone funding approaches.

The report is based on an analysis of CSR disclosures filed with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) for FY2014-15 to FY2023-24, covering ₹17,377 crore in spending across Environmental Sustainability, Conservation of Natural Resources, and Agroforestry.

The full report is available at www.sattva.co.in/quick-read/environmental-csr-in-india-lessons-from-%e2%82%b917000-crore-of-investments/.
 

About Sattva Consulting

Sattva Consulting is a global impact consulting firm from India. Since 2009, we have engaged with communities, business, and government to achieve societal impact at scale. We believe that Civil society, Business, and Government all have a critical role to play in building an equitable and sustainable world, and we actively partner with all stakeholders to enable impact through our advisory and orchestration services, knowledge and data platforms—built as public goods for the ecosystem, and collaborative solutions and partnerships.

To know more, visit sattva.co.in.
 

About India Data Insights

India Data Insights (IDI), an initiative by Sattva Consulting, aims to empower India’s development sector with actionable, ready-to-use data insights to enable sharper decisions and maximise impact. Built as a public good, IDI consolidates public data across SDG practice areas on one, unified platform, offering insightful visualisations, interactives, blogs and ready-to-use-charts and dashboards.

To know more, visit indiadatainsights.com.

DS Group introduces ‘Pallu Protection Equipment’ Awareness Campaign in Uttar Pradesh

As part of the initiative, DS Group has introduced its Pallu Protection Equipment (PPE) filter, an advanced washable nano-fibre filter designed to be stitched into a saree pallu or dupatta, transforming it into a protective barrier during agricultural work. Offering protection against pesticide particles, dust and harmful chemicals, including PM2.5 pollutants, the solution has been developed as a practical and culturally relevant intervention for women engaged in farming activities. The nano-fibre filters, integrated into saree pallus, dupattas and similar coverings, will be made readily available, free of cost, through identified tailor shops, pesticide outlets and chemist stores across the seven villages in Baghpat district.

DS Group introduces ‘Pallu Protection Equipment’ Awareness Campaign in Uttar Pradesh

The ongoing initiative has engaged rural communities through mobile awareness vans, traditional puppet shows, nukkad nataks (street plays in local language), free health check-up camps and door-to-door educational outreach. Conducted with the support of local authorities as well as local communities, the programme has encouraged conversations around the hidden health risks associated with pesticide exposure and the importance of adopting safer agricultural practices. Health camps have offered blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, basic health counselling and the distribution of the PPE protective masks to women farmers. Additionally, every woman participating in the programme has received mirrors and calendars carrying messages that reinforce the importance of safe farming practices.

Mr Rajeev Jain, Senior Vice President, Corporate Marketing, DS Group, said, “Women farmers play a vital role in India’s agricultural economy, yet awareness of the occupational health risks they face remains limited. Our field research revealed that the saree pallu and dupatta are often used as informal protective coverings during pesticide-intensive agricultural work, despite offering inadequate protection. This highlights the urgent need for simple, practical and culturally appropriate solutions that women farmers can seamlessly adopt. Through the Pallu Protection Equipment’ Awareness Campaign, DS Group combines awareness with action, providing accessible solutions that can help make agricultural work safer and healthier for women.”

This initiative forms part of DS Group’s broader FarmHER programme, which recognises and supports the contributions of women farmers across India. By making essential health and safety information accessible, practical and culturally relevant, the programme seeks to bridge the gap between awareness and action, empowering women farmers to adopt safer and more sustainable agricultural practices. The PPE kit can also be used by male farmers, as a special version has also been designed that’s integrated into the gamcha (cloth used on the shoulder to wipe sweat/ dust, etc) that the male farmers use.

About DS Group

The DS Group (Dharampal Satyapal Group) is a one of the leading FMCG conglomerates and a Multi-Business Corporation with a strong Indian and International presence. Founded in the year 1929, it is an inspiring and successful business story that blends a remarkable history and legacy with visionary growth. It has an extensive and diverse portfolio with presence in Food and Beverage, Confectionery, Mouth Freshener, Hospitality, Agri, Luxury Retail businesses, and other investments. Catch, Pulse, Pass Pass, Silver Pearls, Ksheer, Rajnigandha, Ovino, L’Opera, Le Marche, Birthright, LuvIt, Chingles, Golmol, Namah are some of the leading brands, the Group proudly shelters today.

As a corporate, DS Group is guided by a clear set of values that are built on a strong foundation of collective good to give back to society and protect the planet. The DS Headquarters has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification, under the USGBC (US Green Building Council) existing building O&M (Operation and Maintenance) program version 4.0. The DS Headquarters has also received LEED Zero Carbon Certification, by the USGBC. DS Group has aligned its financial performance with global ESG priorities with the launch of a pioneering Double Materiality Assessment across all businesses. Further demonstrating its environmental leadership, the DS Group has a water positivity index at 1.8 across its business units in 30 locations of India.

For details, log onto www.dsgroup.com.

Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the newly constructed Indoor Sports Complex at the Government Arts & Science College, Tiruchuli on 18 July. Developed under SBI Foundation’s sports programme, the facility will provide students and local youth with modern multi-sport and fitness infrastructure to promote healthy lifestyles and nurture grassroots talent.

Hon'ble FM Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Indoor Sports Complex at Govt. Arts & Science College, Tiruchuli, under SBI Foundation's sports programme with SSRDPT

The Indoor Sports Complex has been developed in response to an identified need for quality sports infrastructure at the Government Arts & Science College, Tiruchuli, as highlighted by the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), Virudhunagar. The facility comprises a multipurpose indoor hall with turf adaptable for a range of sports, including basketball, volleyball and badminton. There are also a fully equipped gymnasium and a dedicated board games room. Designed for inclusivity and accessibility, the complex is intended to serve both college students and nearby community members through scheduled open-access hours and outreach activities.

“This is an important milestone for State Bank of India and SBI Foundation as this state-of-the-art sports facility is dedicated to the youth of Tiruchuli. We are truly honoured by the gracious presence of Hon’ble Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, which adds great significance to this memorable occasion,” said G.S. Rana, DMD (HR) & CDO, SBI.

The project aims to directly benefit more than 500 college students annually and to reach over 1,000 youth from surrounding villages each year through community engagement and open-access programming. By creating long-term and sustainable infrastructure, the initiative seeks to increase regular participation in sports and fitness, developing holistic life skills, and create pathways for talented individuals to pursue competitive sports and related opportunities.

“SBI Foundation extends its gratitude to everyone whose support has brought this Indoor Sports Complex to life. This facility is designed to encourage youth participation, nurture grassroots talent, and strengthen the health, confidence and leadership potential of students, youth and athletes from nearby villages. We are glad to partner with the Government of India and local stakeholders on this initiative, which aims to help promising young athletes to develop the skills and exposure needed to compete on national and international stages.” said Swapan Dhar, Managing Director, SBI Foundation.

The project is being implemented in partnership with Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (SSRDPT). The facility is already functioning, with students using the spaces for physical training, recreational activities and organised coaching sessions.

Through its wider sports programme, SBI Foundation is working with both para and able-bodied athletes to help them prepare for national and international events, including the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, as well as major national competitions such as the Khelo India Games. In the same spirit, the Indoor Sports Complex at Tiruchuli is expected to strengthen grassroots sports in the region by enabling students and young athletes from nearby villages to access quality training infrastructure and pursue sporting aspirations in a more structured manner.

To date, SBI Foundation has supported over 300 athletes, who have collectively won more than 650 medals at national and international levels, including the Paralympic Games and Para Asian Games. Notably, over 40% of these medals have been won by para-athletes.

About SBI Foundation

SBI Foundation is the CSR arm of the State Bank Group. True to the Bank’s tradition of ‘Service Beyond Banking’, the Foundation engages with communities in various focus areas, including rural development, healthcare, empowerment of PwDs, sports, education, sustainability and environment, livelihood and skill development, and more. Operating across 28 states and 8 union territories in India, the Foundation undertakes initiatives to provide resources to vulnerable sections of society through strategic partnerships with impactful entities in the social sector. The Foundation believes in reflecting the ethos of the State Bank Group in running interventions that are ethical, promote growth and equality, and improve the socio-economic well-being of the society. www.sbifoundation.in.

M3M Foundation Empowering India's Youth with Skills through the Kaushal Sambal initiative

It can replace uncertainty with confidence, dependence with dignity, and transform a job seeker into a job creator. More importantly, it creates a ripple effect, uplifting families, strengthening communities, and contributing to the nation's progress.

Hajrat's journey is a testament to this transformation.

Raised in a modest village, Hajrat dreamed of pursuing higher education and building a better future for his family. But when his father's health deteriorated and financial responsibilities mounted, those dreams slowly gave way to uncertainty. Like countless young people across rural India, he wasn't short of ambition; he simply lacked access to the opportunities that could help him realise it.

That changed when M3M Foundation's iMpower Academy for Skills, under its flagship Kaushal Sambal initiative, reached his village. Encouraged to enrol in the Two-Wheeler Service Technician course, Hajrat stepped into a classroom that would redefine the course of his life.

The programme offered much more than technical training. Alongside practical skills, Hajrat gained digital literacy, workplace discipline, communication skills, entrepreneurial exposure, and most importantly, the confidence to believe in himself.

After completing the course, he had the opportunity to take up employment. Instead, he chose to build something of his own.

With continued support from M3M Foundation, Hajrat established iGarage, his own automobile workshop. Today, the business generates nearly Rs. 50,000 every month, allowing him to support his family with dignity and financial stability. He has expanded his livelihood by purchasing a vehicle attached to a taxi service, creating an additional source of income while generating employment for another individual.

Yet, perhaps the greatest measure of Hajrat's success is not the business he built, but the opportunities he has created for others. Having once searched for a path forward himself, he has trained 12 young people, equipping them with skills that have enabled them to build independent careers and brighter futures.

Hajrat's story is inspiring, but it is far from unique.

Across villages and underserved communities, thousands of young people are rewriting their futures through Kaushal Sambal, M3M Foundation's flagship skill development and livelihood initiative. Guided by the vision of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, the programme is helping bridge the gap between aspiration and opportunity by equipping youth with industry-relevant skills, entrepreneurial capabilities, and the confidence to pursue sustainable livelihoods.

Since its inception in 2019, Kaushal Sambal has expanded across 7 states, 12 districts, and 19 training centres, reaching more than 1,300 villages. Through a holistic approach that combines technical training with digital literacy, life skills, entrepreneurship development, and placement support, the initiative has now skilled over 15,000 young people, preparing them to thrive in an evolving economy.

Its impact is reflected not only in the number of youth trained, but in the lives transformed.

Today, more than 9,000 young professionals have entered the workforce across sectors including healthcare, hospitality, information technology, construction, retail, logistics, renewable energy, fashion, and manufacturing. With an impressive 76% placement rate and an average monthly income of Rs. 14,585, these young professionals collectively generate over Rs. 160 crore in annual earnings, strengthening household incomes, stimulating local economies, and contributing meaningfully to India's economic growth.

The initiative is equally committed to ensuring that opportunities reach those who need them most. Women account for 56% of all trainees, while youth from Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, minority communities, and other underserved sections are empowered with skills that enable them to achieve financial independence. Beyond employment, more than 2,400 aspiring entrepreneurs have established their own enterprises through Kaushal Sambal, creating livelihoods not only for themselves but also for others in their communities.

Hajrat's journey finds reflection in countless others.

Amanpreet, who lost his father at a young age, watched his mother work as a daily wage labourer to support the family. Through training at iMpower Academy for Skills, he acquired professional expertise and the confidence to establish his own beauty business. Today, he earns approximately Rs. 20,000 every month, becoming the primary source of support for his family.

Similarly, Deepika, a young woman from a financially constrained farming family, overcame social and economic barriers through Kaushal Sambal's skill development programme. Equipped with digital and professional competencies, she secured employment as a Data Entry Operator in Gurugram, earning a CTC of Rs. 16,000 per month. Her journey demonstrates how the right opportunity can empower young women to transform not only their own lives but also those of their families.

Behind every number is a story of resilience. Behind every skill acquired is a dream reclaimed. And behind every success story is the belief that when young people are empowered with the right opportunities, they don't just transform their own futures, they create a lasting impact on families, communities, and the nation.

This World Youth Skills Day, M3M Foundation celebrates the limitless potential of India's youth and reaffirms its commitment to equipping them with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive. Because when one young person succeeds, the impact extends far beyond an individual achievement, it becomes a step towards building a stronger, more inclusive, and self-reliant India.

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

During the 1000-Ton recovery milestone announcement of Allianz’s CSR initiative ‘Plastic Waste-Free Rivers Project Thiruvananthapuram’

Since its launch in 2022, This four-year journey has been entirely funded by Allianz Services India and Allianz Technology India, who have together invested more than INR 5 crores (EUR 500,000) from CSR funds in the project.

"Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in Kerala are not merely engines of economic growth – they are responsible corporate citizens who invest in the communities and ecosystems that sustain them. This milestone also reinforces a powerful message to global investors: Kerala's industrial growth is inseparable from its commitment to environmental excellence,” said P K Kunhalikutty, Minister for Industries, IT, AI and Startups.

“What makes the Plastic Waste-Free Rivers Project particularly commendable is its sustained, systematic approach,” said Adv. Mons Joseph, Minister for Water Resources. “I urge corporates, local bodies, and citizens alike to draw inspiration from this model,” he added.

“I call upon our Panchayats, Municipalities, and the Corporation of Thiruvananthapuram to draw inspiration from this model and deepen their collaboration with initiatives of this nature,” said K.M Shaji, Minister for Local Self Government. 

“Reaching the 1,000 ton milestone is incredibly meaningful for Allianz – every piece of plastic removed from rivers is one less harming the ocean. It reflects a clear conviction: to protect biodiversity and ocean health, we must act upstream.  This is about more than cleanup – it’s about lasting change: creating jobs, raising awareness, and transforming how communities manage waste. But we are only at the beginning. Preventing plastic pollution at scale requires deeper collaboration, systemic solutions and long-term commitment – because caring for tomorrow means protecting the ecosystems that sustain life today,” said Barbara Karuth-Zelle, Member of the Board of Management (Responsible for Allianz Services and Allianz Technology) and Group COO, Allianz SE. 

The Plastic Waste-Free Rivers Project deploys low-cost floating barriers called TrashBooms to intercept plastic waste in rivers and urban waterways. Today, 15 TrashBoom systems operate across critical sites – including Thampanoor thodu, Ulloor thodu, Pattom thodu, Thekkinakara canal, Amayizhanchan thodu, Karamana river, Killi river, Kariyil thodu, and Thettiyar canal – collecting and removing plastic waste daily. Allianz Services India and Allianz Technology India run this initiative in association with NGO partners Thanal Trust and Sustera Foundation, deploying technology from Plastic Fischer, Germany. The project provides local employment and is supported by three Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) at Injakkal, Venpalavattom and Vallakadavu, managed by Plastic Fischer's team of 23 professionals responsible for recovery, transportation, segregation and shipping. Collected non-recyclable plastic is transported to the Thiruvananthapuram MRFs and subsequently co-processed at the plants of Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited in Tamil Nadu, while recyclable plastic is repurposed locally, including into TrashBins now installed at Veli Beach.  

Globally, nine million tons of plastic reach the oceans every year. In Thiruvananthapuram, 79% of debris on major water banks is plastic, and the Karamana and Killi rivers have the highest microplastic densities in the region. Without intervention, plastic is projected to outweigh fish in the world's oceans by 2050 – a stark reality that makes this milestone all the more significant. 

In 2025, Allianz Services India and Allianz Technology India launched grassroots-level programs in Puthenthope, Kadinamkulam and Veli, in association with NGO partners Thanal Trust and Sustera Foundation, marking a strategic shift towards preventive waste management by extending impact from interception to behaviour change and early intervention. The initiative encourages visitors, local merchants, and residents to dispose of waste responsibly. Employees regularly collaborate with NGO partners to undertake beach cleanup drives and awareness campaigns, while close collaboration with the Corporation of Thiruvananthapuram and the Government of Kerala (Departments of Local Self Government and Water Resources) ensures the initiative complements local governance efforts.

This achievement demonstrates that Thiruvananthapuram-based GCCs are driving environmental initiatives with measurable outcomes through corporate citizenship. The 15 sites span critical urban waterways surrounding Technopark and key industrial zones, and by removing massive plastic blockages, this industry-led initiative helps local authorities mitigate urban flood risks, protecting tech infrastructure and enhancing the liveability index that attracts global talent to the city. The project has also earned endorsement from the UN Ocean Decade. What began in Thiruvananthapuram is now being replicated by others in Mangaluru, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kanpur, and Varanasi – demonstrating that structured, long-term action backed by strong partnerships can deliver real, scalable impact.

Allianz established its Global Capability Centers (GCCs) as one of the early tenants of Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram. They are among the first GCCs in Kerala and today employ over 6,600 professionals, making Thiruvananthapuram Allianz's largest GCC location by headcount globally. Allianz Services is the AI-powered value accelerator for Allianz Group, one of the world's leading insurers and asset managers and, Allianz Technology India is a key delivery center for Allianz Technology and a strategic hub within the Allianz Group's global IT and digital transformation strategy.

Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan launching the PRAGATI initiative

The programme is backed by a coalition of institutions including the PepsiCo Foundation, State Bank of India Foundation, Gates Foundation, IDH, Heifer International, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), Global Agri Entrepreneurship Academy, Sustainable Agriculture Foundation's International Association (SAFIA), Agri Entrepreneur Growth Foundation (AEGF), and Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF).

Building on an existing network of 26,000-plus agri-entrepreneurs that already supports 2.6 million farmers, PRAGATI aims to add 20,000 more entrepreneurs and reach over 2 million additional smallholders across Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The initiative targets a 30% rise in farmer incomes and a 15-20% yield boost in paddy, maize and potato, with regenerative practices adopted by at least a fifth of participating farmers. Entrepreneurs will run 20,000 village-level kiosks offering agronomy advisory, soil health services, mechanization, credit linkages and market access, alongside a push for financial and digital inclusion.

Speaking at the launch, Chouhan said "the vision of Viksit Bharat cannot be achieved without a developed agricultural sector and prosperous villages," adding that the government's focus extends beyond output to cutting cultivation costs, raising incomes, and promoting value addition and agri-entrepreneurship. He cited horticulture, livestock, fisheries and beekeeping, along with drones and digital advisory tools, as key levers for the sector's future, stressing that traditional farming alone will not be enough for small and marginal farmers.

Industry and philanthropic partners echoed that sense of urgency. Monica Bauer, Senior Vice President, Global Social Impact at PepsiCo and President of the PepsiCo Foundation, said farmers are "at the heart" of the company's business and that supporting their livelihoods is "essential to building a more resilient food system." Jagrut Kotecha, CEO of PepsiCo India and South Asia, called PRAGATI "a much needed intervention" bringing together partners with shared intent, reflecting the company's "Partnership of Progress" philosophy.

For SBI Foundation, the initiative marks a shift in banking's role in rural India. Its MD & CEO, Swapan Dhan, said PRAGATI is "not just about creating agri-entrepreneurs" but about building "a nationwide movement of local changemakers who will drive farmer prosperity, climate resilience, and financial inclusion".

International partners framed PRAGATI as a scalable model for the Global South. Alan Johnson of the Global AE Academy and IFC (World Bank Group) said the programme scales "a proven agri-entrepreneurship model" that turns rural youth and women into "catalysts of economic growth, innovation, and sustainable agricultural transformation." Hisham Mundol, Chief Advisor-India at EDF, said it places "farmers and local entrepreneurs at the center of climate-smart, efficient solutions," combining data-driven insights with last-mile delivery. Dr. Simon Winter of SAFIA called it "a bold step towards enabling a new generation of rural changemakers to accelerate the transition to regenerative and climate-resilient agriculture."

Rina Soni, Executive Director of Passing Gifts Pvt. Ltd., a Heifer International subsidiary, said the platform treats farmers "not as passive beneficiaries" but as "entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers," with the potential to make farming "a profitable, sustainable, and aspirational choice for the next generation."

With its scale and multi-stakeholder design, PRAGATI is set to become India's largest privately led agri-entrepreneurship programme, positioning local entrepreneurs as central agents in building a more inclusive and climate-resilient rural economy.

Advanced diagnostics, timely care, healthier communities

The project marks the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Revolution™ Aspire Select CT Scanner, significantly expanding the hospital's capacity to diagnose critical conditions across specialties including neurology, cardiology, oncology, trauma care and emergency medicine. The transformative upgrade is expected to benefit thousands of patients every year, particularly those facing life-threatening conditions such as stroke, trauma and cancer - where every minute counts.

Access to advanced diagnostic imaging continues to be a challenge for many communities in Odisha. Patients often travel long distances or endure extended waiting periods for CT scans, delaying diagnosis and treatment. In emergencies, such delays can have serious consequences, making timely access to advanced imaging an essential component of quality healthcare. By strengthening diagnostic infrastructure at SSCASRH, Project SWASTHYA KIRAN addresses this critical gap, ensuring that advanced diagnostic services are available closer to the communities that need them most.

Project SWASTHYA KIRAN is the outcome of a partnership between Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd. (HURL) and The Art of Living Social Projects, formalised through an MoU signed at the Art of Living International Center, Bengaluru, in the presence of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Guided by Gurudev's vision of compassionate service and holistic well-being, the partnership brings together advanced technology and selfless service to make quality diagnostic healthcare more accessible to underserved communities.

The initiative will:

• Improve timely access to diagnostics by reducing travel and waiting time, ensuring patients receive critical imaging faster - especially during emergencies such as stroke and trauma.

• Make advanced diagnostics more affordable by providing high-quality CT scanning services closer to home, easing the financial burden on rural and underserved communities.

• Strengthen emergency care by enabling quicker, more accurate diagnosis, supporting earlier medical intervention and improving patient outcomes.

Beyond emergency medicine, the enhanced diagnostic capability will strengthen the hospital's ability to deliver more effective care across a range of clinical specialties. Faster, more precise imaging will help clinicians make informed treatment decisions, improve continuity of care, and reinforce SSCASRH's role as an important healthcare institution serving Cuttack and surrounding communities.

Project SWASTHYA KIRAN is more than the commissioning of advanced medical technology - it is an investment in healthier communities. By bringing timely diagnosis, quality healthcare and renewed hope closer to home, the initiative reflects the shared vision of HURL and The Art of Living Social Projects to ensure that quality healthcare reaches those who need it most.

About The Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living, founded by humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is committed to transforming lives through community-centred initiatives. Working across healthcare, conservation of water resources, education, women empowerment, and environmental restoration, it partners with governments, NGOs, corporations, and local communities to bring meaningful change. Through its compassionate, service-driven approach, The Art of Living continues to strengthen well-being and nurture a culture of peace and responsibility worldwide.

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The Rs. 2.6 crore humanitarian relief package announced by UAE-Based Indian entrepreneur Dr Shamsheer Vayalil for families affected by Dubai’s Emirates Road tragedy has reached the homes of deceased workers in India’s Telangana and Uttar Pradesh.

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil’s representatives hand over support to the parents of late Thirupathi Gollapally in Telangana

The relief initiative follows a road accident that occurred in Dubai in June, when a minibus carrying workers collided with a stationary truck, leaving seven dead and nine injured. The victims were later identified as migrant workers, and the accident prompted grief and support efforts across the UAE and India.

Family of late Abdul Rasheed at their home in Kopaganj, Uttar Pradesh

Representatives from Dr. Shamsheer’s office visited the families of the six Indian workers who died in the accident. They traveled across rural Telangana and Uttar Pradesh to meet the bereaved families, convey their condolences and support, and hand over the financial assistance. A representative also visited the family of the Sri Lankan worker who lost his life in the accident.

Under the humanitarian recovery program, the family of each deceased worker is receiving Rs. 26 lakh. Further education support for children from the affected families is being assessed and will be coordinated directly with the families.

Support Reaches Rural homes in Telangana

The three workers from Telangana were Saleem Sayyed Hussain, 51, from Namilikonda in Jagitial district, Abdul Rafiq Abdul Raheem, 37, from Kaddam in Nirmal district, and Thirupathi Gollapally Chandraiah, 23, from Thakkallapalle in Jagitial district.

Saleem is survived by his wife, Sayyad Goreebee, and three children. Family members said he had gone to the UAE around two-and-a-half months ago to build a better home and support his children’s education. One of his children has health-related challenges, while marriage discussions had begun for his elder daughter.

Thirupathi’s parents spoke about the hopes they had placed in their son, who had gone to the UAE for the first time around seven months ago. He would call home and speak about adjusting to work and life abroad, including the challenges of outdoor work.

Abdul Rafiq is survived by his wife, Raziya Begum, and their young daughter, Rida Fathima. His family and villagers remember him as a warm and helpful person. His father, Abdul Rahan, who had lost two other children in a road accident in Telangana in 2015, said the latest tragedy has left the family struggling to rebuild life once again.

Families in UP Recall Unfinished Dreams

In Uttar Pradesh, the visits covered the families of Abdul Rasheed Zakir Husain, 38, from Kopaganj in Mau district, Markandey Chauhan Bhajjan Chauhan, 39, from Khurahat in Mau district, and Mohammad Saqib Liyaqat Ali, 31, from Sahaspur in Bijnor district.

In Khurahat, Mau, Markandey’s family recalled his long years of work in the Gulf and his dreams for his children. He is survived by his wife, Sarswati Devi, and three children, including 17-year-old Ankita Chauhan, who recently completed Grade 12.

During the visit, Dr. Shamsheer, Founder and Chairman of VPS Health, connected with the family over a video call. When Ankita shared that she wished to pursue BSc Nursing, Dr. Shamsheer said, “We will support you to complete your education. Study well and complete the course. We will be happy to bring you here after that. Markandey ji will be remembered every day through you.”

At Kopaganj, Abdul Rasheed’s family said he had left home exactly two months before the news of the accident reached them. He is survived by his wife, Farida Khatoon, and three young daughters.

“He had told us this would be his last journey abroad to find a job, and that once he returned, he would not go again,” said Mohammed Aamir, his wife’s brother.

The family said Abdul Rasheed wanted to educate his children and improve the small house in which they currently live.

In Sahaspur, Bijnor, Mohammad Saqib’s family said he had gone to Dubai for the first time around eight months ago after working as an aluminium fabricator. He hoped to support his mother and sisters and stayed on despite challenges, hoping the UAE would help him build stability for the family.

The support also reached Sri Lanka, where a representative from Dr. Shamsheer’s office traveled from Colombo to Mullaitivu district to meet the family of Samuvel Rengasami, 34, the sole breadwinner of his family. He is survived by his wife, Rajarathnaraja Jeevarani, and a young daughter.

Nine Injured Workers Also Receive Financial Assistance

Financial support has also been extended to the nine injured survivors in coordination with the workers’ employer, with the amount distributed based on the severity of their injuries and recovery needs. Among the injured survivors, eight are Indian nationals, including three from Uttar Pradesh, two from Rajasthan, and one each from Kerala, Telangana, and Bihar. One injured worker is a Nepali national. Four of them received the amount in the UAE, while three others who are currently in India have had the support transferred to their accounts. Two critically injured workers, who are still undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dubai, have also received the support in their accounts.

Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, Shri Narayan Bhadana, Councillor, Health Dept, and village Sarpanch

The recognition was presented during a programme organised by the Health Department in the presence of Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, as the Chief Guest. The event was Englishattended by Shri Lokveer Singh, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Gurugram, Shri Narayan Bhadana, Councillor, Gurugram, doctors, healthcare professionals, frontline health workers, community members and representatives of M3M Foundation.

The Health Department acknowledged the Foundation's continued support in strengthening public healthcare infrastructure and complementing government efforts to improve healthcare delivery at the grassroots. As part of its recent interventions, M3M Foundation renovated the Sub Health Centre, helping create a better-equipped and patient-friendly healthcare facility. The Foundation also distributed nutritional dry ration kits to 90 tuberculosis (TB) patients, supporting their treatment journey and contributing to the collective effort towards a TB-free India.

Further strengthening healthcare services, the Foundation provided essential infrastructure and medical equipment to the health centre, including a freezer, washing machine, almirah, water cooler, haemoglobin analyser, blood pressure monitoring machine, glucometer, height-weight machine and other diagnostic equipment, enabling healthcare professionals to deliver improved patient care.

These interventions have been undertaken through M3M Foundation's flagship Kartavya Programme, which focuses on preventive healthcare, community well-being and occupational health. As part of the initiative, the Foundation has reached over 2 lakh individuals through healthcare interventions and, during 2025-26 alone, organised 102 health camps, benefiting more than 14,280 people through medical consultations, health screening, medicines and preventive healthcare awareness.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Tejpal Tanwar, MLA, Gurugram, said, "Strong healthcare systems are built through collective responsibility. M3M Foundation's contribution towards strengthening health infrastructure and supporting community healthcare reflects the positive impact of partnerships between the government and responsible institutions. On National Doctors' Day, I extend my sincere appreciation to every doctor and healthcare professional for their dedicated service."

Shri Lokveer Singh, Chief Medical Officer, Gurugram, appreciated the Foundation's continued collaboration with the Health Department, said, "Quality healthcare becomes more effective when institutions work together. M3M Foundation has consistently supported the Health Department through infrastructure development, preventive healthcare and community outreach. Such collaborations help us strengthen healthcare services and reach more people."

The Appreciation Letter was received by Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, on behalf of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation. 

Commenting on the recognition, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, "This recognition is a reminder that meaningful healthcare begins with strong partnerships and reaches its true purpose when quality services become accessible to every community. Through Kartavya, we remain committed to strengthening primary healthcare, promoting preventive care and supporting the public health system. As we move towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, healthier communities will be the foundation of a stronger and more resilient nation."

On National Doctors' Day, M3M Foundation also paid tribute to doctors, nurses, frontline health workers and medical professionals whose unwavering commitment continues to strengthen India's healthcare system and improve countless lives.

The recognition further reinforces M3M Foundation's commitment to working alongside the Health Department to strengthen primary healthcare infrastructure, expand community health initiatives and improve access to affordable, quality healthcare, contributing to the shared vision of a healthier and Viksit Bharat.
 

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Climekare Sustainability Private Limited Signs Strategic MoU with European Business and Technology Centre to Accelerate India's Low-Carbon Transition

Climekare Sustainability is a climate and sustainability solutions company that partners with businesses, industries, and institutions to guide them through their sustainability transformation journey. By combining advisory expertise, digital solutions, and implementation support, the company enables organizations to measure, manage, and reduce their environmental impact while building resilient and future-ready operations.

Over the years, Climekare Sustainability has built a strong portfolio of clients across the climate, energy, sustainability, and environmental commodities ecosystem. The company has partnered with several leading organizations, including Tata Power Trading Company Limited, EKI Energy Services Limited, Transport Corporation of India Limited, Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions Limited, ReConnect Energy Solutions Limited, Customized Energy Solutions India Private Limited, Climera Carbon Private Limited, Saxon Renewables Pte. Ltd., AFS Energy BV, Stellapps Technologies Private Limited, ESDC Software Solutions Pvt. Ltd., and several other organizations, supporting them in their sustainability, carbon management, ESG, renewable energy, and decarbonization initiatives.

The partnership with EBTC comes at a time when sustainability has evolved from a compliance requirement into a strategic business priority. Across the globe, governments, investors, and supply chains are increasingly demanding greater transparency in climate risk management, greenhouse gas emissions, ESG performance, and decarbonization commitments. Regulatory developments such as the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and India's growing emphasis on Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) are accelerating this transition and creating an urgent need for credible sustainability frameworks and implementation partners.

Against this backdrop, the collaboration between CSPL and EBTC aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, promote the adoption of clean technologies, and support organizations in developing practical and scalable decarbonization pathways aligned with global sustainability expectations. By leveraging EBTC's strong Europe-India ecosystem and Climekare's expertise in climate advisory and sustainability implementation, the partnership will enable industries to access innovative solutions that deliver measurable environmental and business outcomes.

The collaboration is expected to benefit a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, real estate, logistics, and export-oriented industries, all of which are increasingly required to align with evolving global sustainability standards and investor expectations. Through this partnership, organizations will be better equipped to navigate regulatory complexities, improve operational efficiency, strengthen ESG performance, and enhance their competitiveness in international markets.

Speaking on the partnership, Saurabh Sainger, Founder of Climekare Sustainability Private Limited, said, "Our collaboration with the European Business and Technology Centre marks a significant milestone in our mission to help businesses accelerate their sustainability transition. Sustainability is no longer just about compliance—it has become a strategic imperative for long-term competitiveness, resilience, and global market access. Through this partnership, we aim to bridge sustainability ambition with practical implementation by bringing together European expertise, clean technologies, and actionable climate solutions that create measurable environmental and business value for Indian industries. We believe this collaboration will empower organizations to confidently navigate the evolving global sustainability landscape while contributing meaningfully to India's Net Zero aspirations."

Poul V. Jensen, Managing Director, European Business and Technology Centre (EBTC), said, "India’s sustainability journey is one of the most dynamic transformations of our time. With its vast industrial base, growing economy, and ambitious climate commitments, the country presents tremendous opportunities for innovation, technology collaboration, and responsible growth. At EBTC, we see this as a pivotal moment to strengthen bridges between Europe and India, ensuring that sustainable solutions are not only envisioned but also implemented at scale.

Our newly announced collaboration with Climekare Sustainability reflects this shared commitment. Climekare is an emerging player dedicated to advancing practical climate solutions, and EBTC brings decades of experience as a trusted facilitator of Europe-India partnerships in clean technologies, green innovation, and sustainable business practices."

The partnership also reflects the growing momentum of Europe-India cooperation in addressing shared climate challenges and accelerating sustainable economic growth. By connecting businesses with innovative technologies, international best practices, and implementation support, CSPL and EBTC aim to contribute to India's Net Zero ambitions while strengthening industrial competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Commenting on the development, Sushil Sharma, Chairman of Marwari Catalysts Group, said, "We are delighted to see Climekare Sustainability taking this strategic step with EBTC. As businesses worldwide accelerate their sustainability commitments, collaborations such as these will play a critical role in enabling innovation, clean technology adoption, and scalable climate solutions. We are proud to support Climekare in its journey towards creating lasting environmental and economic impact."

As organizations continue to navigate increasing climate risks, evolving regulations, and rising stakeholder expectations, the CSPL-EBTC partnership is poised to serve as a catalyst for sustainable business transformation, empowering industries to transition towards a more resilient, responsible, and low-carbon future.

About Climekare Sustainability Private Limited

Climekare Sustainability Private Limited is a climate and sustainability solutions company dedicated to helping organizations accelerate their sustainability transition. The company provides advisory, digital, and implementation support across carbon management, ESG and sustainability reporting, decarbonization strategy, environmental and energy commodities, climate resilience, renewable energy markets, and sustainable business transformation. Climekare works with leading organizations across India and international markets to develop practical, technology-driven sustainability solutions that deliver measurable environmental and business impact.

About European Business and Technology Centre (EBTC)

The European Business and Technology Centre is an India-EU collaboration platform that facilitates business partnerships, technology transfer, and sustainable innovation between Europe and India. EBTC works across sectors including sustainability, climate action, clean technologies, circular economy, and international business cooperation.

A joint initiative by APD and ABB India, launched in November 2022, RoW was started to address critical gaps in access, affordability, and awareness of rehabilitation services, particularly in last-mile regions.
 

APD’s Rehab on Wheels team reaches communities with on-ground rehabilitation support, bringing services closer to PWDs
 

Operating through a transdisciplinary approach, RoW provides physiotherapy, medical consultations, assistive device assessments, audiology services, and caregiver training through both fixed centres and mobile units. By delivering services directly within communities, the initiative reduces dependence on urban healthcare facilities and ensures continuity of care.
 

During FY 2022–26, the initiative has also:

• Conducted 6,000 plus awareness and sensitisation activities

• Delivered 300 plus assistive device assessments and distributions

• Organised 12 medical camps, exceeding planned targets

• Strengthened early identification and intervention through engagement with ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and local stakeholders
   

Marking the fourth year of Rehab on Wheels, GNV Subba Rao, Global Head of Operations, Center - Automation & Head of ABB Innovation Center, India, said, “Over the past three years, Rehab on Wheels has evolved into a critical last-mile intervention that is bridging gaps in access, affordability, and awareness of rehabilitation services. Today, we are seeing tangible outcomes in terms of improved mobility, reduced pain, and stronger community participation. More importantly, the initiative is enabling early identification, strengthening referral systems, and building local capacity, making rehabilitation more sustainable at the community level.”
 

A rehabilitation session underway as community members participate in exercises and receive support
 

Dr. N.S. Senthil Kumar (PhD Rehabilitation), President of APD Futures at The Association of People with Disability (APD, India), added, “Rehab on Wheels today stands as a strong example of how innovation and partnerships can address the inherent gaps in healthcare access. The scale it has achieved, along with the outcomes on the ground, reinforces our belief that such models can be expanded to reach many more underserved communities.”
 

What began as a single mobile unit is now scaling into a fleet of 3 buses, thanks to many other corporates showing interest in supporting Rehab on Wheels, an innovative, time-tested program helping APD to expand its reach across Bangalore and surrounding regions, demonstrating a scalable model for inclusive, community-based rehabilitation in India.
 

About The Association of People with Disability (APD)

APD is a pioneering non-profit organisation, established in 1959 by the late Ms N. S. Hema. APD has impacted over 6 lakh People with Disability from underprivileged communities from remote, rural, and poor socioeconomic backgrounds. Various programs by APD cover 18 out of 21 disabilities stated in the RPWD Act 2016. With a diverse and inclusive team of over 230 members (45% Women and 30% PwDs), APD reaches out to over 60,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries annually. APD is managed by a professional team of developmental and technical experts overseen by an eminent Board of Governors and Trustees. The Association maintains the highest standards of governance, has been acknowledged by multiple donors, and is accredited by independent agencies like the TISS, Credibility Alliance, RCI, and NIPMAN Foundation.

To learn more, visit www.apd-india.org.
 

About ABB

ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. The company’s solutions connect engineering know-how and software to optimize how things are manufactured, moved, powered, and operated. Building on more than 130 years of excellence, ABB’s ~105,000 employees are committed to driving innovations that accelerate industrial transformation. 
 

ABB has been present in India for more than a century and has been manufacturing for more than 75 years. ABB India has more than 8000 employees across manufacturing, R&D, design and business services, with a pan-Indian presence. ABB India is working closely with partners and customers to electrify, automate, and digitalize energy-efficient solutions to partner with India’s net-zero journeys.
 

ABB is a pioneering technology leader that works closely with utility, industry, transportation and infrastructure customers to write the future of industrial digitalization and realize value.

To learn more, visit ABB Group | Helping industries outrun – leaner and cleaner | ABB.

M3M Foundation facilitates HPV Vaccination for adolescent girls in Nuh, Haryana

Supporting the vision at the grassroots level, M3M Foundation, in collaboration with the Health Department, Haryana, has been driving an extensive HPV awareness campaign across Tauru Block in Nuh district to promote cervical cancer prevention and encourage HPV vaccination among 14-year-old girls.

Taking a pioneering approach towards health communication, M3M Foundation became one of the first CSR organisations in Haryana to design and deploy dedicated HPV awareness Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials, developed by SYImpact Consulting. These innovative tools, including interactive Snake & Ladder and Ludo games, flip books, quiz cards, HPV awareness songs, informative reels and AI-powered storytelling modules, have helped make conversations around preventive healthcare more engaging and accessible.

What began as an awareness initiative has now translated into meaningful action. Through sustained mobilisation and community engagement, the campaign has facilitated the vaccination of more than 600 adolescent girls, surpassing its initial targets.

Spread across 84 villages and 54 Gram Panchayats of Tauru Block, including M.P. Ahir, Rathiwas, Khori Kalan, Charora, Padheni, Kalwari, Jaurasi, Shikarpur, Raheri, Chahalka and Jafrabad, among several others, the initiative has conducted over 90 awareness sessions and reached more than 60 government schools. More than 3,000 stakeholders, including school children, mothers, teachers, ASHA workers, health officials and community members, have been mobilised through the campaign.

At the beginning of the initiative, misinformation and social apprehensions posed significant challenges. Concerns regarding infertility, fears of adverse side effects, misleading narratives on social media and religious misconceptions often influenced community perceptions surrounding HPV vaccination.

However, continuous engagement and open dialogue gradually helped build trust among families. While some community members remained hesitant, many others responded positively after understanding the importance of cervical cancer prevention and early vaccination.

Dr. Nihal Singh Solanki, Senior Medical Officer, CHC Tauru, Haryana said, "Community awareness is key to the success of preventive healthcare initiatives. Our collaboration with M3M Foundation has helped strengthen acceptance of HPV vaccination and reach families more effectively at the grassroots level."

Sharing the experience, one of the beneficiary said, "Initially, we had many doubts after hearing different things from people and social media. But after attending the awareness session, we understood why the vaccine is important. After getting vaccinated, I feel more confident and now encourage other girls to learn about it and make informed decisions for their health."

Their stories reflect a larger shift taking place across communities, where awareness and dialogue are helping families move beyond fear and make informed healthcare decisions for their daughters.

Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, "Inspired by Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of preventive healthcare, we are committed to ensuring that girls in underserved communities receive the right information and access to timely healthcare. Awareness has the power to transform communities and secure a healthier future for the next generation."

Through its continued partnership with the Health Department, Haryana, M3M Foundation remains committed to strengthening community health systems and ensuring that awareness translates into action, protecting the health and future of young girls across underserved communities.
 

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

CSR Partnership for Upskilling Youth between BD India and Hope Foundation

Under this initiative, BD India team in collaboration with the HOPE Foundation, celebrated the successful completion of the 8th year program by felicitating 264 youth on their graduation in the 2 skill-based courses - Nursing Assistant and Tally. Students were awarded certificates and trophies in acknowledgment of their hard work and dedication.

Atul Grover, Managing Director, BD India and KS. Wungchipem (Apem), Director, Hope Foundation

BD and HOPE Foundation have committed to continue with this partnership for the 9th year with the intent to train 320 youth across Nursing Assistant, Tally, and a new Advanced Excel + SQL course, thereby expanding pathways to employability. 

Commenting on the initiative, Atul Grover, Managing Director, BD India/South Asia said, “We are extremely proud of our partnership with the HOPE Foundation where we are working with a like-minded partner to upskill the youth and enable them to earn sustainable livelihoods.  At the graduation ceremony, it was inspiring to witness the journeys of the students and hear first-hand the positive impact this program has had on enhancing their employability and confidence. As a global corporate social citizen, we are immensely proud of creating a better tomorrow for the youth of today, aligned with our objective of advancing together.”

KS. Wungchipem (Apem), Director Skill Development North & East India, HOPE Foundation said, “The partnership with BD has been instrumental in empowering youth by providing skill-based training in Nursing Assistant and Tally. This collaboration not only enhanced employability but also opened avenues for sustainable livelihoods. Through BD’s support, young individuals gained practical skills, industry exposure, and confidence to secure meaningful jobs. The initiative stands as a strong example of how partnerships can drive youth empowerment and long-term impact. Over the last 8 years of the partnership, more than 2200 youth have been trained and more than 1750 have secured jobs”

The two courses offered by Project HOPE - Nursing Assistant (NA) and Tally training are run in parallel for three months each. The criteria to offer the free courses to students is one, a 10^th class pass certificate and two, a demonstrable economic need. All the students are also trained in basic English-speaking skills, life skills and there is a provision for hands-on practical sessions for both courses. The NA students undergo additional on-the-job Training for six months in reputed public or private hospitals.

Initiated in 2018, this project has trained over 2200 students from low socioeconomic backgrounds and enabled employment for over 80% of beneficiaries, largely women.

About BD-India

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics, and the delivery of care. BD helps customers enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety, and expand access to health care. 

Lakshya Scholar Puja Tomar; Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, with Lakshya Scholar Tenzin Dolma

Long before medals are won and records are broken, these athletes battle circumstances, shoulder responsibilities and continue to pursue excellence with unwavering resolve. 

Recognising the extraordinary potential hidden within India's grassroots, M3M Foundation launched Lakshya to ensure that talent is supported, aspirations are nurtured and deserving athletes receive the opportunity to represent the nation with pride. 

One such champion is Tenzin Dolma, an ultra-runner from the remote Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh and a beneficiary of M3M Foundation's Lakshya Programme. 

Recently, Tenzin brought pride to the nation at the IAU Asian-Oceania 24 Hours Championship in Japan, where she broke both India's 12-hour and 24-hour National Records and helped the Indian Women's Team secure the Bronze Medal. For a woman who lost her parents at a young age, became a mother in her teens and supported her family through a modest tea stall, the achievement represents far more than a sporting milestone - it is a story of resilience, perseverance and hope. 

Tenzin's journey reflects the larger vision of Lakshya, M3M Foundation's flagship sports initiative envisioned under the leadership of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, who herself is an International Kettlebell Champion. Having experienced the demands of competitive sport firsthand, Dr. Kanodia believes that talent should never be limited by geography or financial circumstances. 

Today, Lakshya supports more than 100 scholars across 11 states, including Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir. 

The programme's impact extends across 36 sporting disciplines, from Athletics and Boxing to Golf, Gymnastics, Para Sports and Kettlebell Lifting, creating opportunities for talented athletes who otherwise may never have received access to structured support. 

Among them is Puja Tomar, one of India's leading mixed martial artists and another Lakshya Scholar. Hailing from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, Puja overcame personal and financial hardships to pursue combat sports and went on to script history by becoming the first Indian woman to register a victory in the UFC. Her journey, much like Tenzin's, demonstrates the extraordinary potential that exists within India's grassroots communities. 

The achievements of Lakshya scholars are increasingly being reflected on podiums across the world. Collectively, athletes supported by the programme have secured 390 medals, including 77 international medals, reinforcing the Foundation's commitment to strengthening India's sporting ecosystem from the grassroots upwards. 

Speaking about the Foundation's vision, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, "As an athlete myself, I understand the sacrifices, discipline and perseverance that excellence demands. Through Lakshya, our endeavour is to ensure that deserving sportspersons receive the opportunities and support they need to realise their full potential. Athletes like Tenzin Dolma and Puja Tomar remind us that some of India's greatest champions emerge from the most challenging circumstances." 

For M3M Foundation, Lakshya is not merely about supporting athletes. It is about believing in dreams before the world recognises them and ensuring that talent from every corner of India gets an opportunity to make the nation proud. 

About M3M Foundation 
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation building. 

Coffee Table Book Launch

The event was graced by Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, Hon'ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), and Shri K. P. Malik, Hon'ble Minister of State, Forest, Environment and Zoological Parks Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, V. Hekali Zhimomi, IAS Principal Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Anuradha Vemuri, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Government of Uttar Pradesh, senior policymakers, forest officials, members of the Tharu tribal community and conservation experts were also present to address challenges faced by communities residing in forest fringe areas where a host of reasons increase the vulnerability to human–wildlife encounters.

Letter of Intent

Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative updates shared during the event:

• Terai region impact: Successfully impacted over 400 forest fringe villages, since 2019

• Wider Footprint: Installed over 9000 LED streetlights across 400 villages in Uttar Pradesh (in and around Pilibhit, Dudhwa, Amangarh Tiger Reserves, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagina, Chitrakoot, and Bahraich)

• Future Expansion: Signify presented a Letter of Intent (LoI) for the installation of 1500 additional LED streetlights across 67 villages with high rate of human-wildlife conflict in the Katarniaghat landscape.

• Coffee Table book launch: focused on the impact of the recent project in Dudhwa National Park through real stories, illustrating how access to light has helped create safer public spaces and enhance community resilience.  

Addressing the gathering, Hon'ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, highlighted the growing challenge of human–wildlife conflict in forest landscapes and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts involving government departments, experts, civil society organizations, CSR initiatives and local communities to develop practical and sustainable solutions. He commended Signify for its contribution to community safety and rural development through Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative and congratulated the organization for expanding its support to forest fringe communities across Uttar Pradesh.

Through Har Gaon Roshan, Signify continues to support rural communities through innovative lighting solutions that improve safety, strengthen community resilience, and contribute to sustainable development outcomes, working in partnership with BharatCares.

About Signify  

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products, connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating.  News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page

Wings of Change - a unique art installation by Bisleri & Bhamla Foundation created from 2,000 PET bottles at Carter Road, Bandra

Dr. Angelo George, CEO, Bisleri International, said, “World Environment Day is a reminder that sustainability is a continuous journey that requires collective action. Plastic, when disposed of responsibly, can become a valuable resource that can be recycled into useful items. Through our Bottles for Change initiative, we continue to work with communities, institutions, and civic bodies to build awareness around responsible plastic disposal and strengthen recycling systems. ‘Wings of Change’, created from 2,000 used Bisleri PET bottles in partnership with the Bhamla Foundation, is a powerful reminder about how small actions, when taken together, can create meaningful impact.”

Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, Governor of Maharashtra, felicitates Dr. Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International

Asif Bhamla, Founder, Bhamla Foundation, said, "Art has the power to move people in ways words alone cannot. With Wings of Change, we invite every person who sees this installation to reflect on their own role in the plastic journey. Formalizing our collaboration with Bisleri into a year-long partnership is something we are truly excited about. Together, we hope to reach more communities, spark more conversations, and prove that environmental responsibility is an opportunity to build something beautiful."

On-ground activations at the event reflected Bisleri's holistic approach to sustainability. Benches crafted from recycled Bisleri bottle caps were placed across the venue, while attendees and dignitaries were gifted plant pots made from recycled plastic. Together with Wings of Change, they symbolizes that single piece of plastic can lead many lives when managed responsibly. As part of the Bottles for Change initiative, collection bins were placed across the venue to divert plastic waste from landfills and channel it for recycling. Trained volunteers engaged attendees on waste segregation practices, the inherent value of plastic waste, and how to upcycle it into useful, meaningful products.

Wings of Change is part of Bisleri’ s flagship Bottles for Change programme, which is active across 52 municipal corporations and has reached over 10.09 million citizens in last eight years. Complementing awareness efforts, Bisleri's six Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) create efficient channels for collecting and processing dry waste, ensuring plastic is given not just another life, but a purposeful one.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe, and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating a greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Bisleri International marked World Environment Day 2026 with a series of community-led initiatives across Maharashtra. Under its Bottles for Change programme for plastic waste management, Bisleri engaged citizens, educational institutions, corporates, local communities, and civil society organisations through awareness sessions, clean-up drives, collection initiatives, and public installations.

Experiential visit to Bisleri’s Resource Recovery and Sustainability Inspiration Centre, Mira Road, for students

On World Environment Day 2026, Bisleri installed 'Wings of Change' - an artwork created using 2,000 used PET bottles at Carter Road, Mumbai, in collaboration with the Bhamla Foundation. The installation highlighted the importance of recycling and circularity in addressing the plastic waste challenge.

Bisleri conducted clean-up drives in Uttan Beach

Commenting on the occasion, Mr K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International, said, "World Environment Day serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful environmental progress is only possible through collective action. Through Bottles for Change, we are continuously working with citizens, institutions, and communities to foster long-term behavioural change. From the 'Wings of Change' installation in Mumbai to awareness campaigns, collection drives, and experiential visits to our Material Recovery Facility, these initiatives reflect our commitment to creating impact at the grassroots and accelerating the transition towards a circular economy for plastic.”

Extensive door-to-door awareness sessions conducted across Thane, Navi Mumbai and Mira Road reached over 35,000 residents with messages on plastic segregation and recycling. To promote cleaner public spaces, awareness stalls at prominent spots on the Mira Road were set up. Awareness sessions were conducted at AB Goregaon School. Bisleri also facilitated guided experiential visits to the Resource Recovery and Sustainability Inspiration Centre at Mira Road, providing students with first-hand exposure to the journey of plastic waste from collection to recycling.

In Pune, Bisleri organised multiple awareness and collection initiatives in collaboration with corporates, educational institutions and local communities. Awareness stalls were set up at IIC Devi IT Park, Aai Garden in Dapodi, and the Pimpri-Chinchwad Football Ground, engaging over 4,500 participants. Additionally, plastic collection drives conducted with State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and other stakeholders resulted in collection of over 750 kilograms of plastic waste.

In Nagpur, community-focused awareness activities were conducted through door-to-door outreach programmes, encouraging citizens to adopt responsible plastic waste management practices. Additionally, a Bottles for Change stall at Walkers Street was set up to raise awareness about plastic segregation, recycling, and sustainable waste disposal. The activities collectively engaged over 1,500 citizens.

In Goa, two clean-up drives were organized in Panaji and Harvalem, engaging over 200 students and citizens.

These efforts are part of Bisleri's ongoing Bottles for Change programme, which has reached over 10 million people across the country and continues to drive awareness on plastic segregation, collection, and recycling through sustained community engagement initiatives.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe, and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating a greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Bisleri organised plantation & cleanup drives at Sabarmati Riverfront

In Delhi, an awareness session and a painting competition were held at EDM Mall in Kaushambi. Rose Udaan Home for Girls, an NGO managed by Salam Balak Trust, also hosted a painting competition in Dilshad Garden. The activities collectively engaged over 320 participants.

Bisleri conducted awareness session at Indroda Nature Park with GEER Foundation

In Ludhiana, Punjab, a large-scale plogging drive convened in collaboration with the DC Office and more than 30 government and institutional partners, drew over 1,500 citizens onto the streets to collect and segregate plastic waste. In Chandigarh, a two-day plastic collection drive with the Market Welfare Association of Sector 19D brought together 100 residents. Additionally, an awareness-led painting competition with Yuva Stambh at Babu Dham Colony engaged 50 young participants in a creative exploration of plastic waste and its impact.

Best Out of Waste Plant Pot-Making Competition organized by Bisleri & Gram Bharti Samiti

In Lucknow, Bisleri set up an exhibition stall at the State-Level Workshop on Environment, organised by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Uttar Pradesh, at Indira Gandhi Pratisthan. Bisleri’s stall showcased the importance of recycling through a display of products made from different categories of recycled plastics. The team also distributed comic books and resource kits to raise awareness. To reiterate the importance of waste segregation, they conducted an interactive segregation-based game for visitors. The event was attended by around 800 officials and policymakers. Underscoring Bisleri's commitment to protecting the region's natural water bodies and green spaces, a cleanup drive was conducted at the ecologically sensitive Ekana Wetland in partnership with the Gomti Task Force, and a dedicated awareness session was held at Kudiya Ghat in collaboration with Lion Securities.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International, said, "World Environment Day is a powerful moment to initiate action, and this year we set out to make our presence felt in every corner of the communities we serve. From plogging drives in Ludhiana to plantation campaigns in Gujarat and awareness sessions at the Ekana wetland, each initiative under Bottles for Change reflects our belief that lasting change is built at the grassroots. We are grateful to the state government bodies, institutions, NGOs, and citizen who stood with us to preserve the environment."

Plantation drives, cleanup campaigns, and awareness sessions were conducted in Gujarat across five locations including Indroda Nature Park with GEER Foundation, the Sabarmati Riverfront with SRDCL, Pansar Village with Kiran Fitness Centre, RAF Camp Cantonment, and HNGU Patan. Together, these events collectively engaged over 525 participants, bringing together students, defence personnel, and local communities in a shared commitment to tackling plastic pollution. A Letter of Association was also signed with HNGU, deepening Bisleri's institutional partnerships in the state.

In Rajasthan, Gram Bharti Samiti partnered with Bottles for Change for a Best Out of Waste plant pot-making competition on June 4, followed by a Run for a Change programme on June 5 in Jaipur. Together, both events mobilized 140 participants.

These efforts are part of Bisleri's ongoing Bottles for Change program, which has reached over 10 million people nationwide and raised awareness on plastic segregation and recycling.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe, and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating a greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Bisleri International marked World Environment Day 2026 through a series of on-ground activities with citizens and communities across South & Central India. Under its Bottles for Change programme for plastic waste management, Bisleri mobilised communities, government departments, defence establishments, educational institutions, and civil society organisations across Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Chhattisgarh. Collectively, the campaign recovered over 18 metric tonnes of plastic waste, turning responsibility into shared action.

Bisleri conducted plantation and plastic collection drives across South and Central India on World Environment Day 2026

Mr K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International, said, "Managing plastic waste demands grassroots solutions. Through Bottles for Change, we have always sought to raise awareness and create pathways for communities to adopt responsible plastic use and disposal. From cleanup drives in Pondicherry to awareness campaigns in Kerala, we remain committed to scaling this mission and are grateful to every partner who continues to make it possible."

150 saplings were planted under tree-plantation drives by Bisleri

In Pondicherry, Bisleri partnered with Sri Venkateshwaraa College of Engineering and Technology for a rally advocating a plastic-free society. Alongside this, a collection drive was conducted at Sri Venkateshwaraa Dental College during which 520 kg of plastic waste was collected. Both activities together engaged 250 participants.

Bisleri conducted clean-up drives in the national wildlife parks

The campaign’s geographic reach was the widest in Tamil Nadu. A total of 150 saplings were planted around local ponds as part of a tree plantation campaign conducted in partnership with the Tiruvallur Urban local Bodies and clean-up drives were initiated at Pulicat Bird Sanctuary in partnership with Forest Department and Pollution Control Board, Tiruvallur. Cleanup drives in Ooty from Kallar check post to Barliyar Brigde and Vellingiri Hills recovered over 850 kg of plastic waste.

In Coimbatore, a Climate Corridor event at AIC-Rise, in partnership with the Rathinam Group of Institutions, drew 200 participants. In Trichy, Bisleri partnered with the City Corporation and YI-CII to install waste collection bins. A similar initiative was carried out in Dindigul in collaboration with the Pollution Control Board and the District Administration to promote responsible plastic waste management.

In Karnataka, A large-scale cleanup drive in partnership with CII and Mysore Corporation mobilised 2,000 citizens and recovered 15,000 kg of plastic waste. A collection drive at the Karnataka Police Academy engaged 300 personnel. Cleanup and plantation drives at Hoodi Lake and Nexus Mall resulted in the collection of 600 Kg of plastic waste and planting of 100 saplings, respectively.

In Chhattisgarh, in collaboration with the Chhattisgarsh Forest Department set up a Bottles for Change exhibition stall at Nandanvan Jungle Safari in Raipur, attracting around 2,000 visitors. At the same venue, a cleanup and plantation drive engaged 100 participants, who collectively planted 100 saplings.

Hyderabad and Vizag anchored the campaign across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. A door-to-door awareness campaign in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad reached 5,000 households, while a Bottles for Change exhibition stall at Aparna RWA engaged 500 residents. A collection drive conducted with Samprabhav Foundation and Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University recovered an impressive 2,000 kg of plastic waste.

In Calicut, Kerala, the campaign concluded with a seminar and rally on plastic waste management. Organised in partnership with Farook College and NSS, the event saw the participation of 250 students and community members.

The World Environment Day activities by Bisleri are a part of Bisleri's ongoing Bottles for Change programme reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future. Thus far, Bottles for Change has reached over 10 million people nationwide and raised awareness about plastic waste segregation and recycling in a bid to promote effective plastic waste management.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe, and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating a greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

(L-R) Sudarshan Suchi, Reliance Foundation; Poonam Muttreja, PFI; Rajesh Tandon, PRIA; Subodh Mishra, Cohesion Foundation Trust; Sivakumar Surampudi, ITC

Distinguished voices contributing to the day’s discussions included Dr. Rajesh Tandon (PRIA), who spoke on the state of government-civil society collaboration; Prof. Bina Agarwal (University of Manchester), on women’s land rights as the foundation for economic agency and intergenerational change; Mr. Gagan Sethi, on the lessons of 25 years of community-centred practice and what the next chapter demands; Mr. Sudarshan Suchi (Reliance Foundation), on how philanthropic capital can be aligned with public systems to reach the last mile; Ms. Saranya Pradhan (McCain Foods India), on how private sector engagement with women and youth in agriculture builds both livelihoods and supply chain resilience; Mr. Biraj Patnaik (National Foundation for India), on resourcing the civil society ecosystem and sustaining organisations that hold the long view; and Mr. Sivakumar Surampudi (ITC Limited), on market-linked models that connect rural women and youth to economic opportunity.

The Outcome Report 2020–25 captures a period of significant growth and impact for the organisation. Over the last 5 years, Cohesion supported more than 15,000 women farmers, reached 67,409 children through education and early childhood development programmes, linked over 43,000 individuals to government welfare schemes, strengthened more than 150 community-based organisations, and enabled community-led water management initiatives that created 259,188 kilolitres of additional water storage across 78 villages.

Speaking at the event, Rajesh Kapoor, Chief Executive Officer, Cohesion Foundation Trust, said, “25 years ago, we began with a belief that communities themselves hold the knowledge, resilience and leadership needed to drive lasting change. Our journey has reinforced that belief time and again. Whether it is women farmers strengthening livelihoods, families accessing essential entitlements, or communities managing natural resources, meaningful development happens when people are empowered to lead it. As we look ahead, our ambition is to help transform a million lives by 2030 through community-owned development.”

The Outcome Report also sets out Cohesion's strategy for the next 5 years, the organisation's stated goal is to transform 1 million lives by 2030 through community-owned development. Building on its ‘Model, Replicate and Scale’ approach, the strategy will focus on climate-resilient livelihoods, women’s leadership, youth empowerment, stronger community institutions and evidence-driven engagement with public systems and development partners.

About Cohesion Foundation Trust

Cohesion Foundation Trust was set up in 1996 by a multi-disciplinary team of professionals. The team equipped with the experience of different facets of development, started as a support body, providing professional services to other organizations. The support included services like community organization; project finance & management services including planning, monitoring & evaluation; designing & maintenance of Impact assessment and Management Information Systems; research, capacity building, democratization of development process & empowerment; advocacy works etc. As a strategic move in the year 2000-01, Cohesion initiated its implementation units, with a view to enrich the exchange of learning through support activities.

SOCOMEC and IFCCI Launch Multi-Faceted CSR Initiatives Promoting Education, Clean & Green Energy, and Zero Plastic Waste Management

Reflecting SOCOMEC’s strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility, Project Edu-Sustain has effectively integrated education, renewable energy, and environmental conservation to deliver long-term and scalable impact.

Key Focus Areas:

• Clean & Green Energy: Installation of solar panel systems in seven government schools – 2 In Chennai, Tamil Nadu and 5 in Noida and Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh across Chennai and Delhi-NCR, generating approximately 35,000–50,000 kWh of renewable energy annually. This intervention has significantly reduced carbon emissions while enabling energy-efficient learning environments.

• Education for Underserved Communities: Ongoing educational centres established in 2024, and successful continue operations supporting over 80 primary-level children from high-risk and underserved communities. These centres have provided structured after-school academic support, mentoring, and creative learning spaces, contributing to improved learning outcomes and reduced dropout rates which aims to ensure that the children complete their schooling successfully.

• Zero Plastic Waste Management: Adoption of Prabhadevi and Dadar beaches in Mumbai under a comprehensive Zero Plastic Waste Management initiative, resulting in the collection and recycling of over 15,000 kg of marine plastic waste annually. The initiative has also supported upcycling efforts, creating livelihood opportunities for local waste pickers.

• Awareness & Employee Engagement: As part of the project launch, over 35+ employees from SOCOMEC Group and IFCCI actively participated in engagement activities at the educational centres in Dwarka, Delhi, and at Prabhadevi Beach in Mumbai. These initiatives, along with continued community outreach and sustainability awareness programs, have fostered environmental consciousness among students, employees, and local communities.

Leadership Speak-

Mr. Meenu Singhal, Regional Managing Director, SOCOMEC Greater India, stated, “At Socomec, sustainability is not just a commitment, it is a responsibility we actively live by. Through Project Edu-Sustain, we are proud to create meaningful impact by integrating clean energy, education, and environmental stewardship in the communities we serve. What truly makes this initiative special is the enthusiastic participation of our Socomec team volunteers, whose passion and dedication have brought these efforts to life on the ground. We remain committed to building a cleaner, greener, and more inclusive future for generations to come.”

Ms. Nida Khanam, Head of Human Resources, SOCOMEC Greater India, stated, “Recent volunteering drive by our colleagues for Beach Clean-up drive and visit to education center at Mumbai and New Delhi showed personal commitment towards CSR. Through our meaningful partnership with IFCCI, we were able to bring our corporate values to life. From removing waste on the shoreline to engaging with minds at the education center, this proves that sustainable change starts with collective vision and passion people bring together as team.”

Ms. Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI), added, “Education and sustainability are key drivers of long-term social transformation. Through Project Edu-Sustain, alongwith Socomec Group, we are working towards creating meaningful impact by integrating quality education, environmental responsibility, and clean energy solutions within communities. These initiatives are empowering communities while building a more sustainable future.”

About SOCOMEC

Established in 1922, Socomec is a globally renowned specialist in Low Voltage (LV) Power Switching, Monitoring, and Power Conversion products, dedicated to managing power and safeguarding people, equipment, and installations. Offering 24/7 Expert Services, Socomec ensures the reliability and optimization of end-users' equipment.

With a workforce of 4400 employees, 12 production sites, and over 30 subsidiaries spanning five continents, Socomec Group is a key player in the industry. In India, we have a strong presence with 12 branch offices and operate a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Gurugram, Haryana, designed with a flexible structure and advanced technology to support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.

Leveraging over a century of expertise, the Group is committed to constant innovation, enhancing energy performance in Data Centres, Healthcare, Infrastructure, as well as industrial and commercial sites. As a recognized expert, Socomec delivers state-of-the-art solutions, ensuring the highest availability of electrical power supply to critical and non-critical facilities. Tailored to customer needs and fully compliant with international standards, the company consistently upholds excellence in power management.

About IFCCI

Established in 1977, the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry is one of the most active bilateral chambers in India. IFCCI represents a dynamic business platform of over 800 members companies, and 17 Sector & Function led Committees offering an extensive range of business services and giving access to people and information.

The Chamber belongs to a global network of 126 French Chambers spread across 95 countries with over 37,000 companies with the mission:

• To facilitate business and networking opportunities between Indian and French companies

• To develop trade relations between our members and the Indo-French business community

• To encourage economic, commercial and investment relations between France and India

CSMT lights up red as Ujaas drives conversations on menstrual dignity, awareness and period equity on World Menstrual Hygiene day 2026

Through “Trash Out the Myths,” participants were encouraged to identify and challenge common misconceptions surrounding menstruation and menstrual hygiene. “Period Pulse” created an interactive platform for commuters and passersby to exchange perspectives and assess awareness around menstrual hygiene management, helping spark more informed and open conversations on the subject. Meanwhile, the “Period Rights Map” invited individuals to express support for dignity, awareness, accessibility and inclusivity in menstrual hygiene across schools, workplaces, public spaces and communities. By bringing these conversations into one of the country’s busiest public spaces, the initiative aimed to normalise discussions around menstruation and foster more informed, supportive and stigma-free attitudes towards menstrual hygiene in everyday life.

The initiative comes at a time when menstrual health and hygiene management is increasingly being recognised as an issue of dignity, equality, education, and public health. This momentum was further reinforced by the Supreme Court’s recognition of menstrual health and hygiene as intrinsically linked to the fundamental rights to dignity, equality, education, and health under Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Constitution.

While India has made progress in menstrual hygiene awareness, significant gaps continue to persist. National data indicates that nearly one in four young women in India still does not have access to hygienic menstrual products and practices. Studies have also shown that many adolescent girls remain unaware of menstruation before experiencing their first period, while menstruation-related stigma, misinformation, and lack of supportive environments continue to impact confidence, mobility, and school attendance and participation in everyday life.

The disparities are often more visible within underserved communities and urban informal settlements, where girls continue to navigate challenges around privacy, access to menstrual hygiene products, awareness, and social stigma despite living within large metropolitan cities. Research across urban settlements has also highlighted that school absenteeism during menstruation can reach close to 38%, reinforcing the need for sustained awareness and community engagement around menstrual health and hygiene management

By bringing the conversation to one of India’s busiest public landmarks and transport hubs accessed by millions every day, Ujaas and Central Railway sought to encourage more visible, mainstream conversations around menstrual hygiene management and challenge the silence that continues to surround the subject.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Advaitesha Birla, Founder, Ujaas an initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust, said, “For many girls and women, menstruation still impacts confidence, mobility and everyday participation due to the silence and misinformation surrounding it. Real change requires more than awareness alone — it calls for supportive ecosystems and open conversations across schools, communities, families and public institutions. We thank Central Railway for partnering with us to amplify awareness around menstrual health. Through this initiative, we hope to bring the conversation into public spaces and encourage greater openness, dignity and normalisation around menstrual health.”

Adding further, Dr  Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Central Railway said, “As one of the country’s largest public service networks, carrying millions of people every day, Indian Railways believes that public institutions and public spaces can play an important role in driving social awareness and inclusion. Through this collaboration with Ujaas, we hope to encourage more open conversations around menstrual health and hygiene, and contribute towards building a more informed and supportive environment for women and girls, for better realisation of their potential”.

To date, Ujaas has impacted over 1.2 million beneficiaries and distributed more than 4.8 million menstrual hygiene products across India. Programme assessments indicate measurable behavioural change, including a 48 percentage-point increase in rejection of menstrual myths among girls, a 38 percentage-point improvement in menstrual health awareness, and a 44 percentage-point increase in puberty awareness among boys — reinforcing the importance of inclusive, community-led menstrual health education that engages both girls and boys in building supportive attitudes around menstruation.

As conversations around menstrual equity continue to evolve nationally, the initiative highlights the importance of sustained awareness, education, and collaborative action in ensuring menstruation is addressed not through silence or stigma, but through dignity, confidence, and equal opportunity.

About Ujaas

Ujaas, a transformative initiative under the stewardship of the Aditya Birla Education Trust, is committed to fostering positive change and empowerment in the space of menstrual health and hygiene management. With an unwavering focus on driving awareness, breaking stereotypes and myths and contributing to social development in the space of menstrual health and hygiene, Ujaas epitomizes the Aditya Birla Education Trust ethos of contributing meaningfully to society.

Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, Ujaas leverages the values, resources, and expertise of the Aditya Birla Education Trust to create lasting impact. By implementing awareness workshops distribution of free pads, Ujaas serves as a beacon of progress and inclusivity.

Guided by the visionary principles of the Aditya Birla Education Trust, Ujaas embodies the belief that sustainable change begins at the grassroots level. Through collaborative efforts, strategic partnerships, and a deep-rooted commitment to uplift communities, Ujaas aspires to make a significant difference in the lives of underprivileged girls and society at large.

Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria championing the values of integrity, respect and inclusion through the global Fair Play movement, reinforcing the spirit of ethical and value-driven sport

The initiative also sought to advance Fair Play education across schools and universities with recommendations for integrating Fair Play into the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). Experts also discussed fostering international cooperation and encourage the integration of values such as respect, solidarity and ethical conduct into youth development and community programmes. Further, establishment of a National Fair Play Committee of India to coordinate Fair Play programmes, research, education, and policy advocacy was a key discussion.

The initiative was conceptualised with the support of Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee, Cosmo Foundation, who has been actively associated with international Fair Play initiatives. This was then organised in collaboration with the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Sports Foundation and endorsed by the International Fair Play Committee (CIFP). The symposium marked one of the first large-scale World Fair Play Day celebrations in India and aimed to deepen India’s engagement with the global Fair Play movement while encouraging stronger collaboration among educational, sporting and social institutions.

In her special address, Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee Cosmo Foundation and Whole-time Director (Corporate Strategy, ESG and CSR), Cosmo First said, “Fair play is a universal language. Fair play is more than a game; it is a way of life. It is not about how you win, but how you play. By promoting values such as dignity, justice, respect and togetherness, we can create a better world not only through sport, but also in everyday life.”

In his keynote speech, Mr Sunil Sabharwal, President of CIFP, acknowledged the contribution of Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria and the invaluable support by Cosmo Foundation towards advancing the Fair Play movement in India and globally. He further emphasised the global responsibility to uphold ethics, integrity and respect in sport, while highlighting the importance of international cooperation in strengthening values-driven sports ecosystems. 

The symposium featured panel discussions on ethics in sports governance, the role of education in fostering sportsmanship, and the cultural significance of Fair Play in building peaceful and inclusive societies. Discussions focused on ethical leadership, transparency and accountability in sport, anti-doping frameworks, value-based education for youth, and the role of traditional sports in promoting community bonding, cultural preservation and social harmony. The event also included a Fair Play Pledge Ceremony and participation from national and international institutions associated with sports, education and Olympic values.

As the community outreach initiative of Cosmo First, Cosmo Foundation works across education, environment and empowerment initiatives, with programmes spanning multiple states and communities across India. Through its support for World Fair Play Day, the Foundation helped strengthen India’s leadership in the global Fair Play movement and reinforced international cooperation for ethical and value-driven sport. The symposium also helped catalyse conversations around expanding Fair Play education and building stronger collaborations among Indian and global institutions working in sports, education and social development.

About Cosmo Foundation
Cosmo Foundation was established in 2008 as the community outreach initiative of the Cosmo First Ltd, the largest manufacturers of BOPP worldwide. The Foundation works closely with less developed communities around its manufacturing units at the Karjan in the Vadodara District and Gangapur in the Chatrapati Sambhajinagar District as well as in Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and tribal district Chhindwara of Madhya Pradesh. The organization works on several development programs aimed at Computer operation and digital skill building, Foundational Literacy, Numeracy, Life skills and English Communication, health and hygiene, Environment and Empowerment of women.

About Cosmo First Limited
Established in 1981 by Mr Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo First Limited is an over four-decade-old global conglomerate. Its consumer vertical comprises Cosmo Consumer, which is into Window Films, Paint Protection Films & Ceramic Coatings for automobiles, and Zigly Pet Care, which provides a digital-first omni channel pet care ecosystem. Its industrial vertical includes Cosmo Films for specialty films for packaging, labels, lamination, and industrial applications; Cosmo Speciality Chemicals for coatings, adhesives and masterbatches, and Cosmo Plastech for rigid packaging. With sustainable innovation, development, and research embedded in its core values, Cosmo First serves customers in 100+ countries.

Thane Institute Inauguration

Established as part of Group Legrand India’s social commitment towards skill development and youth empowerment, the institute aims to strengthen industry-ready technical talent and enhance employability across the electrical and allied technology sectors.

Developed in collaboration with SkillSonics, an NSDC-accredited implementation and knowledge partner, the 8,000 sq. ft. world-class standalone facility has been designed to provide industry-oriented technical training for ITI students, diploma and engineering students, technicians, and electricians. The institute will offer completely free-of-cost training programs with a strong emphasis on practical learning, industry exposure, and employability enhancement aligned to evolving technological and market requirements.

The initiative is expected to train and upskill more than 1,000 students and electricians annually, creating a stronger pipeline of skilled talent for India’s growing infrastructure, energy, and electrical ecosystem. The initiative further strengthens Group Legrand India’s broader CSR framework, which is built on five key pillars: education, healthcare, environment, skill development, and disaster relief; through impactful interventions across communities nationwide.

Speaking on the occasion, Tony Berland, CEO & Managing Director, Group Legrand India, said, “The inauguration of our training centre in Thane marks a significant milestone in Legrand’s journey of empowering youth through skill development and enhancing employability. Through this initiative, we aim to provide accessible, high quality technical education that equips students and electricians with future ready capabilities while contributing meaningfully to India’s skilled workforce development.”

Speaking on the occasion, Shri. Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra said, “Maharashtra has been actively focusing on strengthening skill development and creating employment opportunities for youth through industry partnerships and practical learning initiatives. The Legrand Institute for Training & Education aligns well with the State’s vision of building a future-ready skilled workforce and will contribute meaningfully towards Maharashtra’s larger skill development mission and industrial growth.”

Abida Aneez, VP – CSR & Sustainability, Group Legrand India, shared, “The Legrand Institute for Training & Education has been developed as a first-of-its-kind advanced technical training facility with modern labs and the latest technologies in electrical and UPS systems. The customised curriculum, designed jointly by Legrand’s subject matter experts and SkillSonics’ technical specialists, aims to equip students and electricians with practical skills and industry-ready capabilities aligned to current and future technological needs.”

The inauguration of the training centre marks another important step in advancing Group Legrand India’s long-term vision of inclusive growth through accessible skilling and community development.

About Group Legrand India

Legrand is a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures, dedicated to supporting technological, societal, and environmental change around the globe. Legrand’s core purpose is to improve lives by transforming the spaces where people live, work and meet, with electrical and digital infrastructures and connected solutions that are simple, innovative and sustainable.

For over two decades, Group Legrand India has maintained its leadership position in power protection business, utilizing its global expertise to tailor the offering to local market needs. The Group has strategic acquisitions which further solidified its commitment to delivering complete solutions, making it the preferred partner across diverse market segments.

 Group Legrand India has several brands under its umbrella who are leaders in their respective product domain, namely IndoAsian, Numeric, Valrack, Adlec and NetRack. With a diverse workforce of 5000+ employees across India, Group Legrand India has 7 state of the art manufacturing facilities, 3 R&D centres and a wide distribution network with over 870 distribution partners and 19000+ retailers.

Legrand's purpose guides its responsible commitments to a more sustainable world for all. Legrand's CSR commitments actively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the UN for a better and more sustainable future.

Legrand has laid out its CSR /Sustainability commitments in 4 main areas of actions to improve lives:

• Promote diversity and inclusion

• Reduce its carbon footprint

• Develop a circular economy

• Be a responsible business

Legrand has set the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 throughout the Group’s value chain.

NEEV Foundation launches ‘Iss Garmi, Farq Nazar Aayega’ summer relief campaign across six states

NEEV Foundation is deploying 60 relief vans to distribute clean, cold drinking water at high-footfall public areas and directly to those working long hours in the open, including traffic police personnel, delivery executives, construction workers, street vendors and autorickshaw drivers. Alongside water, the vans will distribute ORS pouches and protective caps to counter heat exposure and help replenish minerals lost to excessive perspiration.

Acknowledging that the crisis extends beyond human welfare, the Foundation has installed water tanks for stray animals and placed bird feeders and water trays across multiple locations. The campaign is anchored in a simple idea of access and empathy. As the foundation describes it: “The thirsty always come to the well. This summer, we decided to take the well to the thirsty.”

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Vivek Patni, Director – Wonder Cement and Founder of Neev Foundation said, “India’s summers are becoming increasingly harsh for people who spend most of their day outdoors. Through this campaign, we wanted to create immediate, accessible relief for those who keep our cities functioning despite extreme weather conditions. Sometimes the most meaningful interventions are also the simplest, whether it is offering a glass of water, a moment of shade or basic support during difficult conditions.”

He added, “NEEV was founded on the belief that social responsibility begins with showing up for people when they need support the most. We hope this campaign also encourages citizens to participate in small acts of care, from keeping water outside homes for birds and stray animals to supporting delivery personnel and outdoor workers during peak summer hours. Collective action often begins with individual awareness. Sometimes, a small beginning brings a big change and starts a revolution.”

The campaign carries a deliberate public mobilisation intent, seeking to deepen community participation in heat relief at a time when rising temperatures are emerging as a sustained challenge across urban and rural India.

The seasonal effort is part of a broader development mandate. NEEV Foundation’s Rural Development Centre in Nimbahera anchors its long-term work, which spans skill development for women under the Hunar programme, community infrastructure through Sanrachna, educational support under Udaan, healthcare outreach through Arogyam and sustainability initiatives under Eco Green.

With temperatures breaching 45°C across large parts of India, NEEV Foundation has mounted a large-scale summer relief campaign, “Iss Garmi, Farq Nazar Aayega,” targeting outdoor workers, the general public, stray animals and birds bearing the brunt of this season’s extreme heat. The initiative is being rolled out across six states including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Maharashtra.

NEEV Foundation is deploying 60 relief vans to distribute clean, cold drinking water at high-footfall public areas and directly to those working long hours in the open, including traffic police personnel, delivery executives, construction workers, street vendors and autorickshaw drivers. Alongside water, the vans will distribute ORS pouches and protective caps to counter heat exposure and help replenish minerals lost to excessive perspiration.

Acknowledging that the crisis extends beyond human welfare, the Foundation has installed water tanks for stray animals and placed bird feeders and water trays across multiple locations. The campaign is anchored in a simple idea of access and empathy. As the foundation describes it: “The thirsty always come to the well. This summer, we decided to take the well to the thirsty.”

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Vivek Patni, Director – Wonder Cement and Founder of Neev Foundation said, “India’s summers are becoming increasingly harsh for people who spend most of their day outdoors. Through this campaign, we wanted to create immediate, accessible relief for those who keep our cities functioning despite extreme weather conditions. Sometimes the most meaningful interventions are also the simplest, whether it is offering a glass of water, a moment of shade or basic support during difficult conditions.”

He added, “NEEV was founded on the belief that social responsibility begins with showing up for people when they need support the most. We hope this campaign also encourages citizens to participate in small acts of care, from keeping water outside homes for birds and stray animals to supporting delivery personnel and outdoor workers during peak summer hours. Collective action often begins with individual awareness. Sometimes, a small beginning brings a big change and starts a revolution.”

The campaign carries a deliberate public mobilisation intent, seeking to deepen community participation in heat relief at a time when rising temperatures are emerging as a sustained challenge across urban and rural India.

The seasonal effort is part of a broader development mandate. NEEV Foundation’s Rural Development Centre in Nimbahera anchors its long-term work, which spans skill development for women under the Hunar programme, community infrastructure through Sanrachna, educational support under Udaan, healthcare outreach through Arogyam and sustainability initiatives under Eco Green.

With “Iss Garmi, Farq Nazar Aayega,” the Foundation seeks to demonstrate a point that is straightforward but easy to overlook during a crisis. Compassion can bring about tangible relief for those, most exposed to India’s harshest summer.

About NEEV Foundation
NEEV Foundation is a socially driven initiative committed to building stronger, kinder and more resilient communities through sustainable and meaningful social interventions. Guided by the philosophy of creating a strong foundation for a better tomorrow, NEEV Foundation, under the leadership of Mr. Vivek Patni, works across healthcare, education, women empowerment, infrastructure development and environmental sustainability to create lasting positive impact.

Hands in the soil, hearts with the planet

Implemented by The Art of Living through Vyakti Vikas Kendra India (VVKI), with CSR support from Dynapac Company, the tree plantation initiative brought together corporate employees, volunteers, and local communities in a collective act of environmental responsibility. More than a plantation drive, the project was designed as a long-term ecological intervention - one that combines environmental restoration with community participation and sustainable rural development.

Planting for Resilience, Not Just Green Cover
As climate change, rising temperatures, and environmental degradation continue to impact rural landscapes across India, increasing green cover has become both an ecological necessity and a community priority.

The plantation project focused on species that could deliver long-term environmental, social, and livelihood benefits. A total of 12 native and ecologically significant species were planted, including Neem, Arjuna, Bamboo, Tamarind, Mahua, Jackfruit, Karanja, Amla, Banyan, Audumbar (Indian Fig), and Jamun varieties.

These species were carefully selected not only for their ecological resilience, but also for their ability to support soil conservation, groundwater retention, biodiversity, nutrition, and rural livelihoods.

For example:

• Karanja improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation

• Arjuna supports soil and water conservation

• Neem contributes to natural pest control and air purification

• Bamboo helps bind soil while offering livelihood potential

• Mahua, Jamun, Tamarind, and Jackfruit provide nutritional and economic value to rural communities

Together, the plantation creates a more resilient ecological landscape capable of withstanding heat stress and changing climate conditions.

A Community-Led Green Initiative
The plantation activity was carried out in Hanumanthapura village, Karnataka, after assessing soil suitability, water availability, and local community participation.

Employees of Dynapac Company actively participated in the plantation drive alongside VVKI volunteers and local residents, turning the initiative into a collaborative environmental effort rather than a one-day event.

The implementation followed a structured process:

• Site preparation and pit digging

• Soil enrichment using organic inputs

• Plantation using appropriate spacing techniques

• Watering and protection measures

• Ongoing monitoring and maintenance

Local volunteers and community members also participated in awareness activities focused on environmental protection and long-term stewardship of the saplings.

Environmental Impact

• Increased green cover

• Improved biodiversity

• Better soil moisture retention

• Reduced soil erosion

• Enhanced climate resilience

Social Impact

• Greater awareness around environmental conservation

• Increased youth and volunteer participation

• Stronger community ownership of ecological initiatives

Long-Term Economic Benefits
Several of the planted species are fruit-bearing or economically useful, creating future livelihood opportunities for local communities. Species such as Bamboo and Mahua can also contribute to supplementary rural income over time.

Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability
A key focus of the initiative has been post-plantation care and community ownership.

Regular watering schedules, periodic monitoring, organic fertilisation, and local protection mechanisms have been put in place to improve sapling survival rates and healthy growth. Community participation has also helped prevent grazing-related damage and strengthened accountability at the local level.

The project demonstrates how relatively small-scale interventions, when thoughtfully designed and collectively implemented, can contribute meaningfully to environmental restoration.

By planting 1,360 trees across three acres, the initiative has laid the foundation for long-term ecological benefits while reinforcing the importance of collaboration between NGOs, corporates, volunteers, and local communities in addressing climate and environmental challenges.

About the Art of Living Social Projects

The Art of Living’s holistic approach to environmental conservation is transforming crisis into opportunity. Through large-scale afforestation, the restoration of degraded and polluted waterways, and the promotion of natural farming to enhance soil health, its initiatives sustainably revitalise ecosystems, strengthen livelihoods, and influence community practices and policy. 

To learn more about these initiatives or explore CSR partnerships, visit: Best NGO for CSR projects in India

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Access Life, a joint initiative of MAHE & Chellaram Foundation, was inaugurated on May 23, 2026, at Manipal, Karnataka
 

The center was inaugurated on 23rd May 2026 at the MAHE Campus, Manipal. The inauguration was presided over by Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, with Dr. Ashok Gavande, Philanthropy India Lead, Chellaram Foundation, Mumbai, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Anand Venugopal, Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, as the Guest of Honor. The event also saw the presence of; Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal; Dr. Anil K Bhat, Dean, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal; Mr. Harinarayan Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Manipal Foundation and, Dr. Vasudeva Bhat K, Professor & Head, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Kasturba Medical College & Hospital, MAHE, Manipal; Mr Girish Nair Founder & Chairman and Mr Ankeet Dave, Co-founders & Executive Director of Access Life Assistance Foundation were present on the occasion.
 

The newly launched 10-unit facility has been specially designed for children undergoing Bone Marrow Transplant procedures, where maintaining a safe, hygienic, and controlled environment is critical due to severely compromised immunity levels during treatment and recovery.
 

This marks Access Life’s second centre in collaboration with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), further strengthening the shared commitment towards holistic paediatric cancer care and family support services beyond hospital infrastructure.
 

The initiative is also supported by Chellaram Foundation, a global not-for-profit organisation focused on long-term, impact-driven philanthropy across healthcare, education, humanitarian aid, and child welfare initiatives.
 

Sharing thoughts on the collaboration Chellaram Foundation said, “Access Life Foundation stands out for its deeply compassionate and highly organized approach toward supporting children and families battling cancer. Their commitment goes far beyond providing accommodation—it creates dignity, stability, and hope during some of the most difficult moments in a family’s life. At Chellaram Foundation, we value institutions where compassion is matched by accountability, and Access Life exemplifies both. We are confident that every contribution made toward their mission translates into meaningful and lasting impact.”
 

Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, said, “At MAHE, we have always believed that healthcare goes beyond medical treatment. Supporting children and families during difficult times is deeply aligned with the values and vision of our founder, Dr. TMA Pai, who believed that compassionate and accessible healthcare should reach every section of society. We are happy that MAHE could support this meaningful initiative by providing the space for the center, which will help create a safe and caring environment for children undergoing Bone Marrow Transplant treatment. This collaboration reflects MAHE’s larger commitment towards holistic and humane healthcare, where medical excellence is complemented by emotional, social, and family support systems. Facilities like these significantly reduce the burden on families while helping children continue their treatment and recovery with dignity. We appreciate the efforts of Access Life and Chellaram Foundation in strengthening paediatric cancer care support services in Manipal.”
 

Speaking about the initiative, Girish Nair, Founder & Chairman, Access Life Assistance Foundation, said, “This second centre at Manipal Academy of Higher Education marks another important milestone in our journey of ensuring that no child is forced to discontinue cancer treatment because of non-medical challenges such as accommodation, nutrition, or distance from the treating hospital.
 

We are deeply grateful to MAHE for once again extending their support by providing the space free of rental, reflecting a strong institutional commitment toward paediatric cancer care beyond hospital walls. We are equally thankful to Chellaram Foundation for supporting this initiative and believing in our vision of holistic childhood cancer care.
 

Since the inauguration of our first 12-unit centre in Manipal in April 2022, we have supported nearly 350 beneficiaries. With this second centre, we hope to extend this support to many more underprivileged families, helping children not only complete their treatment with dignity, but also recover in a safe, caring, and family-friendly environment.”
 

Dr. Vasudeva Bhat K, Professor & Head, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Kasturba Medical College & Hospital, MAHE, Manipal mentioned that, “The new centre further reinforced the departments mission of reducing treatment abandonment and refusal among children with cancer and other serious blood related disorders by addressing the social and logistical barriers that often impact continuity of care thus providing complete holistic care.”

About Access Life

Access Life is a non-profit organisation incorporated under Indian law, established in 2014 to support children from underprivileged backgrounds undergoing cancer treatment. It provides free accommodation, nutrition, transportation, counselling and non-formal education to children and their caregivers who travel from across India to major cities for treatment.
 

With 14 centres across 10 cities, Access Life supports up to 228 families simultaneously, offering a safe, nurturing environment focused on healing and stability. The organisation is registered under 80G, 12A, CSR-1 and FCRA, and has to date supported more than 10,500 beneficiaries across India.
 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3^rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.

Rajeev Baid, Managing Director at Aman Tea Group, highlighting the importance of sustainability, safe farming practices, and supporting tea growing communities
 

The initiative focused on honouring small growers and tea workers who play a critical role in sustaining the tea ecosystem, while also encouraging conversations around safe farming practices, quality awareness, and the long-term future of the industry.
 

As part of its ongoing commitment towards responsible tea cultivation, Aman Tea Group has been consistently engaging with growers and farming communities across tea producing regions, particularly in West Bengal, to create greater awareness around sustainable farming practices and the importance of safe tea production at the source.

The programmes organised on International Tea Day reflected this year’s global focus on strengthening livelihoods and advancing sustainability across the tea sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajeev Baid said, “Tea has always been deeply connected to people and communities. Behind every cup are thousands of growers, workers, and families whose contribution often goes unseen. International Tea Day is an important reminder to recognise and appreciate their role in shaping the industry. At Aman Tea Group, we believe sustainability is not just a conversation for the future, but a responsibility that begins today at the ground level. Supporting safe farming practices, building awareness among growers, and strengthening the ecosystem around tea are essential for ensuring the long-term future of the industry.”

Over the years, Aman Tea Group has continued to focus on building stronger engagement with growers and tea communities while encouraging practices that support both quality and sustainability.

The company reiterated that the future of tea will increasingly depend not only on production and market demand, but also on how responsibly the industry approaches cultivation, community development, and environmental stewardship.

About Aman Tea Group
Aman Tea Group is a diversified tea enterprise engaged across tea production, sourcing, manufacturing, and brand building. Through its associated brands and tea estates, the group continues to focus on quality, sustainability, and creating differentiated tea experiences while remaining deeply connected to the roots of the industry.

M3M Foundation, in Collaboration with Jaipuri Banno, Unveils “Ada-E-Hind” at Times Lifestyle Week 2026

Presented under the thematic concept Threads of India: Woven Stories, Shared Soul, the showcase celebrated India’s timeless textile traditions while creating a national platform for grassroots artisans and emerging designers from rural communities.

Following the success of Dream Weavers 1.0 at Times Lifestyle Week 2024, M3M Foundation once again returned to the runway to amplify hidden talent and bring India’s craft heritage to the forefront. Last year’s initiative introduced six young rural designers to the world of fashion. This year, the Foundation deepened that vision by taking students directly to the source of India’s most iconic crafts.

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation enabled four students from its iMpower Academy for Skills — Aanchal, Geeta, Nishu and Nancy — to embark on an immersive journey across India.

Over the course of three months, the young creators travelled through narrow streets, artisan homes and modest workshops across the country, often in economically vulnerable communities where craftsmanship remains the backbone of household livelihoods. They learned directly from weavers, embroiderers, printers and dyers, understanding not only the techniques but also the stories, struggles and traditions woven into every thread.

The journey began in Lucknow, where the students explored delicate Chikankari and Zardozi embroidery. In Varanasi, they witnessed the intricate process of Banarasi silk weaving. In Patiala, they learned the vibrant art of Phulkari embroidery. In Kanchipuram and Chennai, they experienced the richness of Kanjivaram silk and Kalamkari. In Bhuj and surrounding artisan villages such as Ajrakhpur and Bhujodi, they discovered Ajrakh printing, Bandhani and handloom traditions. In Rajkot, they observed the highly complex Patola weaving technique, and in Rajasthan, they immersed themselves in the timeless craft of hand block printing.

Mentored by Neetu Mahajan, Director of Jaipuri Banno and designer of the collection, the students transformed their learnings into a contemporary fashion narrative rooted in heritage and purpose.

The result was a stunning collection of 33 ensembles, each thoughtfully designed to carry the spirit of the regions and communities from which they emerged. Each garment represented countless hours of artisan labour and embodied the cultural memory of communities that have preserved these traditions for generations.

The collection was brought to life on the runway by acclaimed actor Neetu Chandra as the lead showstopper, joined by digital creator Garima Chaurasia and Nisha Yadav in a special showstopper appearance. They were accompanied by Neetu Mahajan and the four young creators from iMpower Academy, and Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, receiving an enthusiastic response and standing ovation from the audience.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, “At M3M Foundation, we believe that true empowerment begins when hidden talent is given visibility, dignity and opportunity. Ada-E-Hind is not merely a fashion showcase; it is a tribute to India’s artisans, whose hands preserve our cultural soul, and to the young creators who prove that dreams from the smallest villages can reach the grandest stages.”

Through its iMpower Academy for Skills implemented by the National Institute of Education and Development (NIED), M3M Foundation continues to equip young people from underserved communities with vocational training, mentorship and exposure. Ada-E-Hind extends this mission by connecting education with heritage, creativity and dignified livelihoods.

With Threads of India and the unveiling of Ada-E-Hind, M3M Foundation and Jaipuri Banno have once again demonstrated that when purpose meets creativity, fashion becomes a powerful medium for recognition, preservation and social transformation.

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

M3M Foundation’s Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan Conferred with CSR Person of the Year 2026 at India CSR Leadership Summit
 

The recognition celebrates Dr. Mahajan’s leadership in advancing corporate social responsibility as a powerful instrument for inclusive development and sustainable change. Under his guidance, M3M Foundation has implemented impactful initiatives across education, healthcare, women empowerment, skill development, livelihood generation, and environmental sustainability, placing communities at the centre of every intervention.
 

Held under the theme “CSR, Sustainability and ESG for Viksit Bharat 2047,” the summit brought together prominent voices from industry, academia, governance, and the development sector to deliberate on the future of responsible business and its role in shaping a developed and sustainable India.
 

As part of the summit, Dr. Mahajan also participated in a panel discussion on measuring social impact through CSR alongside Dr. Sarita Subramaniam and Kumod Kumar. Sharing insights from M3M Foundation’s on- ground experience, he highlighted the importance of community-led approaches in strengthening climate resilience, advancing sustainability, and contributing to India’s long-term net-zero aspirations.
 

The summit offered a rich exchange of ideas and experiences. Phoolbasan Bai Yadav inspired participants with her extraordinary journey of grassroots transformation, while Dr. Bhaskar Chatterjee, Chairman of the National Sustainability Reporting and Disclosure Standards Committee, BIS, shared his perspectives on CSR 2.0 and accountable development models for Viksit Bharat 2047.
 

Industry leaders Sunil Ramdas, Vishal Bhardwaj, and Vivek Agrawal discussed industrial sustainability and ESG integration in the steel and power sectors. Additional insights on the evolution of CSR from philanthropy to strategic nation-building were shared by Dr. Neepa S, Rishikesh Sharma, Nrusingh Prasad Mohapatra, Meherram Gadekar, Anubhav Saxena, and Mayank Tomer.
 

The award marks a significant milestone in M3M Foundation’s journey and reinforces its commitment to building resilient communities and creating sustainable impact through partnerships, innovation, and people- centric development.
 

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation- building.

Galgotias University’s initiative strengthens rural healthcare services and improves access to rehabilitation support

The initiative has been undertaken in coordination with the Office of the Chief Medical Officer, Gautam Buddha Nagar, and Community Health Centre Dadha. As part of the collaboration, the University is supporting the strengthening of the physiotherapy and rehabilitation unit at the Centre through the provision of modern therapy and rehabilitation equipment, trained physiotherapy support, and operational assistance aimed at improving patient care delivery.

The support includes equipment and rehabilitation infrastructure such as cervical traction systems, gait training support equipment, therapeutic exercise systems, shortwave diathermy, TENS and IFT systems, walkers, shoulder wheels, pulleys, and related physiotherapy support infrastructure. The University will also support trained manpower and associated operational requirements for the functioning of the rehabilitation unit.

The collaboration is also expected to contribute towards broader healthcare systems strengthening at the Centre, including support for healthcare outreach, preventive health engagement, patient support services, quality assurance processes, and community-centred healthcare activities. The initiative aims to improve access to rehabilitation and physiotherapy care closer to people’s homes, reducing the burden on patients who otherwise need to travel significant distances for treatment and follow-up care.

Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “Access to healthcare remains one of the most important social challenges across many communities, particularly where rehabilitation and preventive care infrastructure is limited. Universities today have a larger responsibility beyond classrooms and campuses. Institutions with academic expertise, healthcare capability, and social commitment must actively contribute towards strengthening public systems that directly impact people’s lives. Our support towards Community Health Centre Dadha is an effort in that direction, where institutional resources and expertise can help strengthen healthcare access, rehabilitation support, and community health delivery for people who need it the most.”

The initiative is in sync with Galgotias University’s continued engagement with efforts focused on societal impact, public systems strengthening, and community-centred development across healthcare, education, innovation, and social outreach.

BPCL Strengthens Critical Care Access in Kedarnath with Advanced Hospital
 

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has supported the development of a 50-bedded advanced high-altitude hospital at Shri Kedarnath Dham, in partnership with the Swami Vivekanand Health Mission Society (SVHMS), strengthening critical care access at one of India’s most challenging pilgrimage destinations.

Commenting on this Shri Sanjay Khanna, Chairman & Managing Director, BPCL, with additional charge of Director (Refineries), said, “At BPCL, our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility goes beyond the creation of infrastructure, it is about creating meaningful and lasting impact in people’s lives. Improving access to quality, inclusive, and timely healthcare continues to be a key focus area for us. The Kedarnath region, revered as one of the holiest pilgrim destinations in the country and set amidst some of its most challenging terrains, holds deep spiritual significance for millions. It is in this sacred and demanding landscape that this project takes shape, reflecting our resolve to strengthen healthcare access where it is needed the most. Equipped with modern medical facilities, the hospital will play a critical role in addressing health emergencies and ensuring that both pilgrims and local communities have access to dependable, quality healthcare services, delivered with compassion, care, and timeliness.”

Situated at an altitude of nearly 12,000 feet, the hospital marks a significant upgrade from the existing temporary 8-bed facility, which has long struggled to meet the surge in medical needs during peak yatra seasons. The new facility is designed to handle a wide spectrum of health emergencies—ranging from respiratory and cardiac distress to trauma and neurological conditions—common in high-altitude environments.
 

Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister, Uttarakhand, inaugurated the BPCL Hospital
 

With round-the-clock services, the hospital is equipped with ICU support, ventilators, diagnostic laboratories, and trained medical professionals experienced in high-altitude medicine, backed by a referral linkage with AIIMS Rishikesh for critical care. Each year, lakhs of pilgrims undertaking the Kedarnath yatra face health risks due to extreme weather, low oxygen levels, and pre-existing conditions. The facility is expected to serve over one lakh patients annually, including nearly 30,000 emergency cases, strengthening timely medical response in a high-risk environment.
 

Implemented in partnership with the Swami Vivekanand Health Mission Society (SVHMS), which has been working in Uttarakhand’s remote regions since 2012, the initiative builds on proven on-ground healthcare delivery in high-altitude circuits. The project underscores the importance of accessible medical infrastructure in underserved geographies, where preparedness and rapid response are critical to improving patient outcomes during peak pilgrimage seasons.
 

About Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL)

Fortune Global 500 Company, Bharat Petroleum is the second largest Indian Oil Marketing Company and one of the integrated energy companies in India, engaged in refining of crude oil and marketing of petroleum products, with presence in the upstream and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry. The company attained the coveted Maharatna status, joining the club of companies having greater operational & financial autonomy.

Bharat Petroleum’s Refineries at Mumbai, Kochi and Bina have a combined refining capacity of around 35.3 MMTPA. Its marketing infrastructure includes a network of installations, depots, fuel stations, aviation service stations and LPG distributors. Its distribution network comprises over 25,300+ Fuel Stations, over 1000+ CNG stations, over 6,250+ LPG distributorships, 440+ Lubes distributorships, 81 POL storage locations, 56 LPG Bottling Plants, 81 Aviation Service Stations, 5 Lube blending plants and 6 cross-country pipelines.
 

Bharat Petroleum is integrating its strategy, investments, environmental and social ambitions to move towards a sustainable planet. The company has Electric vehicle charging stations at 6800+ Fuel Stations. With a focus on sustainable solutions, the company is developing an ecosystem and a road-map to become a Net Zero Energy Company by 2040, in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Bharat Petroleum has been partnering communities by supporting several initiatives connected primarily in the areas of education, water conservation, skill development, health, community development, capacity building and employee volunteering. With ‘Energising Lives’ as its core purpose, Bharat Petroleum’s vision is to be an admired global energy company leveraging talent, innovation & technology.
 

About Swami Vivekanand Health Mission Society (SVHMS)

Established in 2012, Swami Vivekanand Health Mission Society (SVHMS) provides charitable, high-quality healthcare to underserved communities and pilgrims in remote regions. The organisation operates 12 hospitals across Uttarakhand, including key high-altitude facilities at Shri Badri Dham, Shri Kedarnath Dham and Gangotri Dham, equipped with critical care infrastructure. Its sustained efforts have contributed to a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality among pilgrims, alongside community outreach through medical camps in remote areas.

Future-ready in progress

The Gap We All Acknowledge, but Rarely Address Well
India produces millions of graduates each year. Yet employers keep pointing to the same issue: A degree doesn’t necessarily translate into workplace readiness.

Students often struggle with:

• Communication

• Financial awareness

• Workplace expectations

• Work stress and pressure

This programme didn’t sidestep the problem - it went straight at it.

Not just training. Preparation for real life.
What set the programme apart was its emphasis on application over theory. It did not treat employability as a checklist; it approached it as a mindset, preparing students not just to secure jobs, but to handle them effectively. 

Less lecturing. More doing - role plays, discussions, real-world scenarios.

Students engaged in:

• Stress management through breathing, meditation, and mindfulness

• Professional communication and interpersonal skills

• Workplace discipline and productivity

• Basics of banking, insurance, and financial planning

• Sales, negotiation, and relationship management

Small Programme. Real Reach.
The target was 400 students. The outcome: 370 trained in Tamil Nadu, and 31 in Karnataka. One striking detail: 67% of participants were women, reflecting strong female participation in skill-building initiatives.

Students came from diverse academic backgrounds - BBA, B.Com, BA, and BSc - but shared a common need: clarity and confidence about stepping into the workforce.

What Actually Changed
The numbers matter. The shifts matter more.

Students reported:

• Greater confidence in speaking and presenting

• A clearer understanding of money and financial planning

• Enhanced resilience (stress management) through simple, proven breathing techniques 

• Increased self-awareness and discipline

• A realistic view of workplace expectations

• For someone stepping into their first job, that’s transformative.

• Working within constraints

Looking Ahead
As India continues to grapple with the employability gap, scalable, focused interventions like this offer a way forward. Because bridging the gap between education and employment doesn’t always require reinventing the system. Sometimes, it just means preparing people better for the world they’re about to enter.

About The Art of Living Social Projects 
Inspired by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, The Art of Living Social Projects operates across India in collaboration with the Government of India, leading corporates, and local communities. The organisation undertakes large-scale initiatives in water conservation, natural farming, afforestation, environmental protection, free education, women’s empowerment, and rural development, among other focus areas. 

To learn more about these initiatives or explore CSR partnerships, visit: Best NGO for CSR projects in India

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Chief Guest Veditha Reddy (IAS, Edu.& Sports, Delhi); Aditi Haldar, Vimlendu Jha, Justice Michael Wilson, Shashank Shah, Ripu D. Bevli, Namrta Bangia; BSG Chairperson Vishesh Gupta

As nature’s limits become starkly evident, just last year in 2025, India faced extreme weather on 99% of days, claiming 4,419 lives (up 45% in 4 years), damaging 17.4 million hectares of crops (up 9x), destroying 181,459 homes, and killing 77,189 animals – underscoring that urgent action is needed.

The conclave, held at the Chinmaya Mission Auditorium in New Delhi, brought together thought leaders, experts, and sustainability enthusiasts to explore the challenges and opportunities for creating a sustainable future.

In his inaugural address, BSG Chairperson Mr. Vishesh Gupta said, “Sustainability has to be more than a survival manual; it has to be a celebration of our shared life, our shared struggles, and our shared resilience. We don’t need a handful of people doing sustainability perfectly. We do need millions of people who may not be doing it perfectly, but are committed to doing it together”.

Ms. Veditha Reddy, IAS – Director, Education & Sports, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, was the Chief Guest & Keynote Speaker at the conclave. In her keynote address, she said “sustainability is often taken in a negative connotation and associated with sacrifice. But sustainability is a mindset. Small daily actions come together to make a difference in our lives. It is also true that we need to have right policies and each and every stakeholder needs to rise to the occasion whether it is the policy maker, implementers, the public or students. Every action really matters.”

The conclave included a panel discussion by renowned speakers such as Justice Michael D. Wilson (Adjunct Faculty – Jindal Global Law School); Dr. Shashank Shah (Senior Public Policy Specialist, Author); Mr. Vimlendu Jha (Environmentalist, Founder – Swechha); Mr. Ripudaman Singh Bevli (Plogman of India); and Dr. Aditi Haldar (Director, South Asia – Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)). The panel discussion was moderated by Ms. Namrta Bangia (Senior Director – Global Mass Transit).

“The climate emergency upends the historically gradual evolution of the rule of law to address injustice.  Faced with the climate emergency, Judges have little time—perhaps seven years—to apply the rule of law to protect the rights of citizens to a life sustaining climate.  Absent unprecedented judicial independence, climate injustice will persist, and the rule of law will erode as cascading environmental catastrophe ensues.”, said Justice Michael D Wilson, who believes in the power of the rule of law to advance climate justice.  

Mr. Vimlendu Jha said, “Climate change is no longer a theory—it’s a lived reality affecting our lives and ecosystems every day. The crisis demands urgent, responsible leadership, especially from young people. This is not a distant threat—it’s here and now. There is no Planet B.”

“Happy to be part of the Conclave, contributing to conversations on building a more resilient future. We often discuss climate resilience at policy tables. But on the ground, communities can’t afford to wait. My work focuses on enabling climate resilience through community-led governance where young people step up to solve challenges of their places instead of waiting for government action. Because resilience isn’t built in frameworks alone. It’s built on ground.” said Mr. Ripudaman Singh Bevli. 

Dr. Aditi Haldar said, “Economic growth and environmental responsibility are no longer opposing goals. If a billion citizens make mindful choices every day, India’s path to a $1 trillion economy becomes not just achievable, but sustainable”.

Ms. Namrta Bangia added, “Climate resilience begins with people—the same people who design our systems, shape our policies, build industries, and imagine the future. When individuals, communities, and institutions move together, even small actions can create a transformative impact”.

As a testament to the power of small actions, two young changemakers from Mothers’ Mount Global School shared how their BSG-supported SDG Club reduced paper use by 30–40%, cut waste, and conserved energy, extending these practices into homes and communities. Another individual spoke of her inner transformation, which led her to start a skills training centre in Bihar, enabling 20 women to build livelihoods and uplift their communities.

In conjunction with the conclave, BSG arranged a sustainability exhibition titled ‘Seeds of Hope & Action: Making the SDGs a Reality’, to bring home the message about the ’Power of One’ to create a more sustainable world, and about adopting ‘Sustainable Human Behaviour’ as a way of life. With this conclave, BSG is determined to advance towards achieving the SDGs by 2030 without leaving even a single person behind.

About Bharat Soka Gakkai

Bharat Soka Gakkai (BSG) is an organization dedicated to promoting the values of happiness and peace for all, under the umbrella of peace, culture, education, and sustainability. BSG has more than 290,000 members who are spread across 600 towns and cities of India and belong to all age groups. To build a sustainable age by 2030, BSG launched the ‘BSG for SDG’ initiative in 2021, with the motto: ‘Towards 2030: Achieving SDGs through Sustainable Human Behaviour.’

For further information please visit www.bharatsokagakkai.org

BSG for SDG www.bsgforsdg.org/about-bsg-for-sdg

M3M Foundation's Dance for Dignity Grand Finale Winners with Kamlesh Patel and Aishwarya Mahajan, President and Trustee,  M3M Foundation

Participants traveled from across the country — from the cultural lanes of Kolkata, the temple town of Mathura, the energetic streets of Chandigarh, and many other regions — bringing with them years of silent practice, unspoken dreams, and unwavering belief. For many, this was their first time performing on a national stage; for others, it was a moment they had waited for their entire lives.

One of the most unforgettable moments came when Jyoti Gupta, a 58-year-old participant in the Super Mom category, stepped onto the stage with determination in her eyes. Her performance was not just about rhythm — it was about reclaiming confidence, proving that age is never a limitation to passion. When she was announced as the winner of the Super Mom category, the applause carried a deeper meaning — it celebrated courage, persistence, and dignity.

Another powerful story emerged from a group of dancers from Chandigarh, who once practiced on open streets and local grounds with limited resources. Standing under national lights, performing before an audience that recognized their effort, their journey symbolized the true purpose of Dance for Dignity — creating opportunities where none existed before.

Across two vibrant days, over 100 participants performed in categories including Solo Junior, Classical, Solo Senior, Duet, Group, and Super Mom, presenting a breathtaking range of dance forms — from graceful classical expressions to high-energy freestyle and synchronized group acts. Young children discovering their confidence shared the stage with adults rediscovering their dreams, proving that dance connects generations and strengthens belief.

At the heart of this celebration stood Kamlesh Patel, whose journey embodies the spirit of resilience that defines Dance for Dignity. Known for his association with iconic platforms such as Dance India Dance and Boogie Woogie, and honored with prestigious recognitions including the President’s Award, his presence reminded participants that determination can transform limitations into strength and dreams into reality. 

Guiding the competition was an accomplished panel of judges including Kamlesh Patel, Arjun Chouhan, Deepika Soni, Kaushal Pradhan, Vaibhav Ghuge, and Piyush Chauhan, whose mentorship encouraged performers to push boundaries and believe in their creative potential.

Adding to the spirit of celebration were spectacular showcase performances that energized the audience. A breathtaking gymnastics performance by Lakshay Scholars, known for their appearance on America’s Got Talent, showcased discipline and precision, while an electrifying performance by internationally acclaimed Zumba instructor Ms. Ana filled the auditorium with energy and enthusiasm.

The championship also celebrated excellence across categories, with inspiring winners emerging as symbols of perseverance and dedication. Among them were Poppim Smiley in the Solo Junior category, Manvi Sharma in the Classical category, Gautam Pathak in the Solo Senior category, White Collar Crew in the Group category, and Jyoti Gupta, whose victory in the Super Mom category stood as a moment of inspiration for audiences and participants alike.

Beyond the stage, Dance for Dignity reflected the deeper social vision of M3M Foundation — to empower individuals, nurture confidence, and provide platforms that transform hidden talent into recognized potential. By creating opportunities for performers from diverse backgrounds, the Foundation continues to champion inclusion and ensure that talent is celebrated with dignity, regardless of age, geography, or circumstance.

Reflecting on the success of the initiative, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, "Dance for Dignity is about believing in people and giving them the confidence to step forward. Every performance we witnessed carried a journey of courage and determination. At M3M Foundation, our commitment goes beyond the stage — we continue to support these talented individuals and create opportunities that help them grow with dignity and self-belief."

As the final applause echoed through the auditorium, one truth stood clear — Dance for Dignity is not just an event; it is a movement of hope, confidence, and transformation. Because sometimes, a single stage does more than showcase talent — it restores belief, builds confidence, and gives dreams the dignity they deserve.

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

India’s First Mobile Music Classroom & Recording Studio – The Musical Bus

Following the successful pilot of the Learning Through Music project in Patna, this next phase under the Delhi Project strengthens Casio India’s role in expanding access to music education. The Musical Bus is a pioneering, on‑the‑move platform that connects children and young musicians with opportunities to learn, create, and perform, regardless of geographical or socio‑economic barriers.

As an all-in-one mobile solution, the Musical Bus is equipped with a professional-level music classroom, a fully functional recording studio, and a performance setup on wheels. The initiative is designed to foster creativity, build confidence, and provide hands-on exposure to the fundamentals of music production and performance. This bus aims to cover various schools, colleges and other community spaces, thereby bringing the musical experience and access to learning closer to the ground.

Through this association, Casio India and Manzil Mystics aim to empower underserved communities by enabling access to structured music education. The program builds a natural synergy by amalgamating Casio electronic keyboards into curriculum-based instrumental learning modules to facilitate practical skill development, while also creating pathways for livelihood opportunities in the music and creative industries. Currently, the Delhi Project is supporting 50 young musicians through structured upskilling, with plans to expand its reach in the near future.

Under this collaboration, the program will focus on providing structured musical training both vocal and instrumental including Casio electronic keyboards, alongside curriculum-based modules designed to develop practical skills that can translate into future music education. The initiative will particularly target underprivileged students studying in government schools and young musicians from low-income backgrounds, enabling them to access high-quality music education and professional development opportunities.

Casio India was honoured to welcome Mr Vijay Goel, former Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports and currently the Vice Chairman of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, as the Chief Guest at the event. His presence underscored the importance of inclusive cultural initiatives and reinforced the role of music as a catalyst for education and social empowerment.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Akira Watanabe, Director, Casio India, “At Casio, we have always believed in the transformative power of music as a universal language that inspires creativity and builds confidence. By supporting the Musical Bus, we are reaffirming our commitment to making music education accessible to all. This initiative allows us to nurture talent and enable young musicians to explore sustainable opportunities in the creative ecosystem.”

The launch event at Gandhi Smriti brought together representatives from Casio India and Manzil Mystics, along with young musicians and community members. The event showcased the potential of the Musical Bus as a dynamic learning and performance space, reinforcing the role of music as a powerful medium for education, expression, and social change.

Through its continued partnership with Manzil Mystics, Casio India remains committed to building an inclusive ecosystem that promotes music education, supports aspiring artists, and enables individuals from underserved communities to pursue creative and sustainable career pathways.

About Casio India Co. Pvt. Ltd.

Casio India Co. Pvt. Ltd. (CIC) is the Indian subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world's leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions. Casio India has established a dynamic presence in the Indian market since 1996, emerging as a leading and cherished consumer goods manufacturer. Casio India's range of products include sales and marketing of Timepieces, Electronic Musical Instruments, Desktop Calculators and Scientific Calculators.

Setting the benchmark for excellence, Casio India is dedicated to embodying the spirit of innovation and quality that defines the Casio legacy. With a strong commitment to its corporate creed of "creativity and contribution," Casio has consistently translated this ethos into the creation of innovative products making a positive impact on society.

For more information, visit www.casio.com/in

Mars Impact Fund, the philanthropic arm of Mars, Inc., visited Humane World for Animals India’s Animal Birth Control centre in Lucknow
 

In India, millions of street dogs live in close proximity to people, which can present a complex urban challenge. The program model emerging from Lucknow demonstrates that when science-led strategic solutions are combined with compassion and community ownership, there is a replicable pathway for cities seeking effective, lasting and humane solutions to human-dog conflict.
 

What sets this approach apart is its emphasis on communities and street dog caregivers as active participants in the solution, not just beneficiaries. Community volunteers, residents, Resident Welfare Associations and community dog caretakers play a central role, from monitoring street dogs to managing designated feeding zones and collaborating with field teams to identify unsterilized dogs. Today, more than 475 Abhay Sankalp societies—local resident groups formed to support humane street dog management and coexistence— are active across the city, bringing together over 15,000 community members.
 

This Humane World for Animals program is supported by the Mars Impact Fund, which is helping strengthen community-led approaches to companion animal welfare in urban India. Since its inception, the program has sterilized and vaccinated over one lakh street dogs, achieving more than 80% sterilization coverage in the city. Notably, 25% of these efforts have been enabled through community participation, reflecting a growing shift towards shared responsibility in humanely and sustainably managing street dog populations.
 

During their visit, members of the Mars team also interacted with community members and volunteers directly involved in the program, gaining insight into how local participation is shaping outcomes. The visit included a dog behavior awareness workshop with children, offering a glimpse into how early education helps to explain dog behaviour, reduce fear-driven responses, prevent conflict, and foster empathy and safer interactions between people and animals.
 

"Witnessing the Lucknow program firsthand is a powerful reminder of what's possible when science, compassion, and community come together. This is exactly the kind of sustainable, scalable impact we aim to support through the Mars Impact Fund. Humane World for Animals India has created a replicable model that not only improves the welfare of street dogs but also strengthens the bond between people and pets. At Mars, we believe in creating a better world for pets, and this program is a perfect example of how we can achieve that by empowering local partners to drive meaningful change from the ground up," said Michelle Grogg, Executive Director, Mars Impact Fund.
 

Keren Nazareth, senior director, Companion Animals and Engagement, Humane World for Animals India, said, “Lasting change for street dogs is as much about people as it is about dogs. While interventions like sterilization and vaccination remain critical, when community residents are informed, involved and supported, they become the strongest drivers and agents of coexistence. The Mars Impact Fund‘s support allows us to deepen that engagement on the ground and build solutions that are humane and sustainable.”
 

Facts:

• Humane World for Animals India, in collaboration with the Lucknow Nagar Nigam in Uttar Pradesh, started the ABC program in Lucknow in 2019.

• More than one lakh dogs have been sterilized so far. Chitti, the 100,000th community dog sterilized under the program, was found by a resident volunteer injured on the street and brought to the Lucknow facility.

• Each week, 250-300 dogs are sterilized, vaccinated and released back to their original locations. The initiative is supported by a team of over 30 trained staff members, six vehicles and a strong network of community volunteers.

• A monitoring survey in December 2024 found that 84.3% of Lucknow’s street dogs have been sterilized and vaccinated.

• Over 31,000 public concerns related to street dogs were effectively addressed through humane interventions such as sterilization, vaccination and community awareness.

• The Mars Impact Fund was launched in 2026 as an $85 million global fund dedicated to complement the company’s existing sustainability and philanthropic efforts with long-term, strategic investments that strengthen communities, advance scientific opportunity and improve companion animal wellbeing. The fund builds upon Mars long-standing global partnership with Humane World for Animals, and its support for the organization's programs in India began in 2020.
  ​

Humane World for Animals (formerly known as Humane Society International) works in India and across the globe to improve the welfare of street, community and companion dogs and cats. We promote humane, sustainable approaches to reduce street animal populations and support peaceful coexistence with people, offering solutions in place of lethal or inhumane methods. Since 2013, more than 400,000 street dogs have been sterilized and vaccinated in India through Humane World for Animals’ programs. The charity’s street dog programs, in addition to its work to increase access to care for companion animals in underserved communities, help people care for their animals and prevent cruelty and abandonment, is advanced in North America, South Africa, Mexico, India, Chile, Costa Rica, Romania and Bolivia.
 

About Humane World for Animals

Together, we tackle the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create permanent change. With millions of supporters and work happening in over 50 countries, Humane World for Animals—formerly called Humane Society International—addresses the most deeply entrenched forms of animal cruelty and suffering. As the leading voice in the animal protection space, we work to end the cruelest practices, care for animals in crisis and build a stronger animal protection movement. Driving toward the greatest global impact, we aim to achieve the vision behind our name: a more humane world.

For more information, please visit humaneworld.org.
 

About Mars, Incorporated
Mars, Incorporated is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a $65bn+ family-owned business, our diverse and expanding portfolio of leading pet care products and veterinary services supports pets all around the world and our quality snacking and food products delight millions of people every day. We produce some of the world’s best-loved brands including ROYAL CANIN®, PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, CESAR®, M&M’S®, SNICKERS®, Pringles®, Cheez-It®, and BEN’S ORIGINAL™. Our international networks of pet hospitals, including BANFIELD™, BLUEPEARL™, VCA™ and ANICURA™ span preventive, general, specialty, and emergency veterinary care, and our global veterinary diagnostics business ANTECH® offers breakthrough capabilities in pet diagnostics. The Mars Five Principles — Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom — inspire our more than 170,000 Associates to act every day to help create a better world for people, pets and the planet.
 

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, with the awardees at CASCA'26

Held under the theme “LiFE in Action: Powering India’s Sustainable Future & Net Zero Goals,” CASCA’26 brought together 250+ participants, 40+ speakers, and sustainability leaders from 18 states, creating a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and recognition of impactful climate solutions.

The conference featured distinguished speakers including eminent environmentalist Peepal Baba, the Waterman of India Rajendra Singh, Dr. Vivek Kumar, Head, CRTD, IIT Delhi, along with policymakers, sector experts, and grassroots changemakers, who shared insights on advancing India’s climate agenda through innovation and community-led action.

In her keynote address, Dr. Payal Kanodia stated, “Climate action must be rooted in ownership, not obligation. At M3M Foundation, we are building ecosystems where sustainability is led by communities themselves—especially women—who are not just participants but decision-makers. When climate solutions are localised, inclusive, and scalable, they create lasting impact far beyond policy frameworks.”

CASCA’26 also recognised excellence in sustainability leadership. The conference received 56 nominations across diverse categories, out of which 18 organisations were honoured for their impactful contributions.

Among the awardees, PAHAD Trust was conferred with the Editorial Choice Award, while Earthrakshak Foundation was recognised in the Waste Management and Circular Economy category.

The conference hosted engaging panel discussions on climate-resilient agriculture, water security and conservation, circular economy and waste management, climate technology and innovation, renewable energy transitions, and pathways to achieving net-zero goals, fostering actionable dialogue across sectors.

Adding to the platform’s collaborative strength, Ashish Jha, Founder, TheCSRUniverse, highlighted the importance of creating credible ecosystems that recognise and scale impactful sustainability initiatives, further strengthening CASCA as a national platform for climate leadership.

Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee & President, M3M Foundation emphasised that climate change today intersects deeply with livelihoods, health, and economic resilience, highlighting the urgent need to take sustainable solutions to the last mile—into villages, farms, and communities.

Demonstrating its on-ground impact, M3M Foundation continues to drive large-scale sustainability initiatives, impacting over 5 million lives across 22 states, 90+ districts, and 1,300+ villages. Its focused climate interventions are being implemented across 6 states Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Karnataka—covering 170+ villages across 8 districts and engaging 3,500+ farmers.

With a strong emphasis on women-led climate leadership, the Foundation has enabled 2,200+ women farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, while 450+ women have emerged as landowners, transforming rural decision-making and economic participation.

Further strengthening sustainable agriculture, the Foundation has established 850+ Sankalp Vatikas and Sarvodaya Vatikas, promoting 100% chemical-free farming, improving health outcomes, and generating additional income for rural households.

M3M Foundation’s environmental efforts also span water conservation, biodiversity protection, renewable energy adoption, and circular economy models, including the creation of 30 million litres of water storage capacity, plantation of 52,000+ saplings, and impacting over 3.1 million individuals annually through environmental programmes.

As India accelerates towards its net-zero ambitions, CASCA’26 reinforced the importance of partnerships, innovation, and community-driven solutions. The conference stands as a testament to M3M Foundation’s continued efforts to translate sustainability into measurable, grassroots impact—building a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., in partnership with the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), today unveiled recycled plastic benches and plastic collection bins at a ceremony held at the PCMC premises. The initiative, part of Bisleri's flagship Bottles for Change programme, underscores the company's commitment to plastic waste management via collection and recycling.

As part of the Greener Promise campaign, Bisleri has installed benches made from recycled plastic and plastic collection bins at the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC)

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri Ravi Babasaheb Landge, Mayor of Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation as the Chief Guest, alongside Dr Pradip Thengal, Deputy Municipal Commissioner & Head of Health Department, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation along with senior officials from PCMC's Solid Waste Management (SWM) Department and CSR Cell. Bisleri was represented by Mr K Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs.

Mr K Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International, said, "Through sensitisation about waste segregation at source, awareness drives and engaging with institutions, Bisleri and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation have demonstrated a successful, practical avenue for waste management. Bisleri is committed to forging meaningful collaborations with various institutions to ensure that proper waste management becomes a norm rather than an exception in India.”

Shri Ravi Babasaheb Landge, Mayor, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) spoke about Bisleri’s continued partnership with the PCMC Municipal Corporation, “Our partnership with Bisleri is a testament to what corporations and governance bodies can achieve when they work together. The company’s initiatives in the city will deflect a significant amount of waste from landfills, raise citizens’ awareness about waste management, and build a foundation for a circular economy.”

Dr Pradip Thengal, Deputy Municipal Commissioner & Head of Health Department, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation added, “Our focus has been on building robust systems for efficient waste management at scale. Bisleri’s ‘Bottles for Change’ initiative is accelerating our progress towards a more sustainable and resource-efficient urban ecosystem.”

The Mayor accompanied by the Deputy Municipal Commissioner – Health, presented certificates of recognition to 8 educational institutions across Pimpri-Chinchwad in acknowledgement of their sustained commitment to collecting plastic waste on their campuses throughout the year.

A highlight of the event was a presentation of the impact of Bottles for Change programme in FY 2025–26. Through Bisleri’s partnerships with municipalities, institutions, and citizens across India, 30,309 metric tonnes of plastic waste has been collected and sent for recycling.

The partnership with PCMC represents Bisleri's continued expansion of its municipal collaborations that engage and enable communities to adopt good waste management practices. These initiatives are a part of the company’s Greener Promise campaign that include driving plastic circularity, enabling community-led recycling practices, supporting water conservation, and building sustainable waste management ecosystems.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 54 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and neighboring countries. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri Mineral Water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavors, such as Pop, Rev, Limonata and Spyci Jeera. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri @Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability. 

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com. 

MS Dhoni joins Cars24’s Crashfree India to drive a nationwide shift towards safer roads

Dhoni’s decision to join Crashfree India gives the initiative something more valuable than visibility. It gives it conviction. For years, he has stood for a rare kind of leadership in public life: measured, disciplined and deeply trusted. He is not associated with noise or impulse. He is associated with judgment. That makes his presence in Crashfree India especially significant, because road safety is, at its core, a question of judgment: when to slow down, when to hold back, when to stay alert and how to remember that every decision on the road carries consequences far beyond the driver.

India continues to face a profound challenge regarding road safety, currently recording the highest number of traffic fatalities globally. In 2024 alone, 1,80,000 people lost their lives on Indian roads, one every three minutes, every day of the year. India has roughly 1% of the world’s vehicles, yet accounts for 11% of global road fatalities. This data suggests that these losses are not inevitable accidents of fate but rather a call to action for improved safety frameworks and increased public awareness to prevent further loss of life.

The burden falls hardest on the young. In 2024, 66% of those killed in road accidents were between 18 and 34 years old, the country’s most productive generation. Nearly 10,000 school students were among the dead. Seven in ten fatalities were linked to overspeeding. These are not abstract statistics. They describe a national failure of behavior, enforcement, design, and urgency. They also describe why Crashfree India cannot be a campaign in the usual sense. It has to become a movement with staying power.

What makes Dhoni’s involvement especially powerful is that he had already said the uncomfortable part out loud before any formal role was announced. In his conversation with Cars24, he did not dilute the truth.

“I have spent a big part of my life around cars, bikes, and roads. When you love driving and riding, you also learn to respect them. You understand that control matters, judgment matters, and patience matters. A vehicle gives you freedom, but it also gives you responsibility. On our roads, too many people still see safety as a rule to follow only when someone is watching. That mindset has cost us far too much. We already know what is going wrong. We know how many lives are being lost. We know the habits that put people in danger every day. What we need now is not more excuses. We need more responsibility, more discipline, and more respect for life," Dhoni said.

That is precisely why his joining matters. Dhoni is not lending his name to an issue he barely understands. He is stepping into a mission he already believes in. His diagnosis is clear-eyed. His language is unambiguous. And his credibility makes the message harder to dismiss. In a country where dangerous driving is too often mistaken for confidence, his voice brings back a more serious idea: that control is strength, discipline is intelligence and safety is not caution for the timid, it is responsibility for the grown-up.

On his decision to take on this role, he added: “Roads may be beautiful, but they come with real risks. As much as we love them, they can be dangerous. We have the data. We know what the problem is. We know what needs to change. The only thing missing is the will to make it a priority. This isn’t something I was asked to do. This is something I decided to do.”

For Cars24, Crashfree India reflects a deeper sense of responsibility that comes with being at the centre of millions of car decisions in India. The company has spent years making car ownership more accessible, transparent and convenient. But access without safety is incomplete progress. Through Crashfree India, Cars24 aims to make road safety a more visible and more influential part of the mobility conversation, not just in moments of tragedy, but in the everyday decisions that shape how people drive, what they value in a vehicle and what they teach the next generation to normalise on the road.

“Some missions need encouragement. This one needs scrutiny. Crashfree India cannot be built by people who only know how to say the right things. It needs someone who sets a harder standard: someone strict, deeply observant, unwilling to indulge comfortable language and clear enough to call out the truth without softening it. Dhoni is exactly that. He does not mince words and that is one of the most valuable things about him. His understanding of Indian roads is grounded in lived experience rather than theory alone. Years of navigating them have given him insights into driver behavior, road conditions, and the split-second decisions that matter most.Every meeting with him has been inspiring, not in a superficial way, but in a way that leaves you sharper, more serious and less satisfied with easy answers. Dhoni holds us to a higher standard and his involvement challenges us to push this mission further.. That changes the seriousness of the work. And that is exactly what this mission needs,” added Vikram Chopra, Founder and CEO, Cars24.

Dhoni joining Crashfree India is therefore bigger than a brand association. It is a public alignment with an issue that has been neglected for too long despite its scale and consequence. It signals that road safety deserves stronger champions, sharper public attention and a much higher place in the national conversation. It also signals that this mission is not about token concern. It is about shifting culture, from carelessness to accountability, from reaction to prevention and from accepting road deaths as routine to treating them as the urgent national failure they are.

With Dhoni on board, Crashfree India enters a more consequential chapter. Not louder, but stronger. Not symbolic, but serious. Because when someone of his stature chooses to stand behind a mission like this, it does more than attract attention. It raises the standard of the conversation itself.

Road safety in India has been tolerated as an unfortunate cost of movement for far too long. Crashfree India exists to challenge that acceptance. And with Dhoni joining the mission, that challenge now has one of the country’s most trusted voices behind it.

About Crashfree India

Crashfree India is a Gurugram-based, technology and research-driven non-profit committed to achieving zero road fatalities in India by 2040. Working at the intersection of behavioural science, systems thinking, and civic collaboration, it advances a Safe System approach through data-led interventions, community programmes, and multi-stakeholder partnerships, building a national movement for safer mobility.

About Cars24

Since its inception in 2015, Cars24 has been on a mission to simplify car ownership for everyone. Offering services such as buying, selling, loans, insurance, servicing and more, Cars24 is building an integrated automotive platform for Indian consumers. Through Cars24 Financial Services, the company also provides vehicle lending solutions.

As part of the Greener Promise campaign, Bisleri has installed benches made from recycled plastic at the Dwarkadhish Temple
 

The recycled plastic benches demonstrate how post-consumer plastic can be transformed into functional infrastructure rather than discarded as waste. Each bench has been crafted using approximately 40,000 recycled plastic bottle caps, showcasing the potential of sustainable innovation in everyday environments. Adding a meaningful social dimension to the initiative, the backdrop of the benches is painted by The Mouth & Foot Painting Artists (MFPA). Their perspectives give the benches an aesthetic appeal and reflect creativity, inclusion and empowerment.
 

Mr Himanshu Chauhan, Administrator (Mamlatdar), Dwarkadhish Temple, said, “The recycled plastic benches at the Dwarkadhish Temple not only provide functional infrastructure for devotees but also encourage people to adopt sustainable practices and contribute towards a cleaner and greener future. We appreciate Bisleri’s efforts in promoting sustainability and bringing their efforts closer to communities.”
 

Mr K. Ganesh, Director – Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International reinforced the company’s commitment to sustainability stating, “Bottles for Change continues to serve as a key pillar of Bisleri’s sustainability efforts. The installation at Dwarkadhish Temple aims to encourage thousands of devotees visiting the temple to adopt responsible waste disposal practices and become active participants in recycling efforts. By placing sustainable infrastructure in high-footfall public spaces, Bisleri continues to drive behavioral changes and strengthen community participation in environmental conservation.”
 

Through these meaningful initiatives, Bisleri International continues to lead in sustainability and champion the circular economy, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.
 

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Bisleri International Supports Expansion of The Live Love Laugh Foundation’s Rural Mental Health Programme in Madhya Pradesh

Launched in January 2023 in the Sausar block of Chhindwara, the programme began with outreach across 60 villages and has since expanded to cover 134 villages, reaching 1,595 beneficiaries. This year, the initiative has expanded into the Bichua block, extending its reach to 42 additional villages supporting 200 people living with mental illness (PwMI). With the support of Bisleri International, the programme will strengthen its outreach across Chhindwara district, while building systems that enable communities to sustain these efforts independently over time.

Dr. Shyam Bhat, Chairperson, The Live Love Laugh Foundation and Deepika Padukone, meet beneficiaries of LLL’s Community Mental Health Program

Speaking about the CSR partnership, Ms Jayanti Chauhan, Vice Chairperson, Bisleri International, said, "At Bisleri, we believe that enduring change is rooted in empowering communities with the awareness and resources to shape their own futures. Mental health, though integral to overall well-being, continues to remain under-recognised, particularly in rural India. We are proud to support The Live Love Laugh Foundation’s work in Chhindwara, and hope this initiative fosters greater understanding, accessibility, and a more compassionate ecosystem of care within the community."

Deepika Padukone, Founder of The Live Love Laugh Foundation, said, "Since its inception, The Live Love Laugh Foundation has been committed to creating awareness about the importance of mental health as well as improving accessibility and affordability of mental healthcare across the country. Our rural programme is an important part of that effort. We are pleased to have Bisleri International join us in strengthening our work in Chhindwara. Their support enables us to scale the programme and move closer to our goal of building a sustainable, community-led mental health system." 

The collaboration underscores Bisleri International’s enduring commitment to initiatives that foster meaningful community participation and create lasting social impact. Across India, the company has championed a diverse range of community-led efforts that inspire responsible practices, advance sustainability, and encourage active citizen engagement- shaping a more conscious and collective future.

The Live Love Laugh Foundation’s rural community mental health programme currently operates across several districts in Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. The programme supports Persons with Mental Illness (PwMI) and their caregivers through an integrated model that combines awareness, early identification, access to treatment, caregiver empowerment, and strong community participation. Through structured support systems, including village-level caregiver groups, block-level federations, and trained community volunteers, the programme equips communities with the knowledge and tools to sustain mental health support systems independently. Over time, this approach enables the programme to evolve into a self-sustaining model driven by community ownership.

About The Live Love Laugh Foundation (LLL)
Since inception in 2015, The Live Love Laugh Foundation has built pathways of care through its flagship Rural Community Mental Health Program for more than 30,000 Persons with Mental Illness (PwMI) and their caregivers, in 19 districts in eight states. LLL has also led pioneering nationwide public awareness campaigns, such as "Dobara Poocho" and "#NotAshamed". LLL recently launched a corporate mental health and well-being program that equips organizations with data-driven knowledge and a roadmap to enable mentally resilient workplaces. 

For more information, visit: www.thelivelovelaughfoundation.org.

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In a remarkable display of grit, discipline, and sporting excellence, athletes supported by M3M Foundation under its flagship Lakshya Sports Program delivered an outstanding performance at the Kettlebell Sport Haryana State Championship 2026, held at The Shriram Millennium School, Gurgaon.

M3M Foundation Trustee and Chairperson, Dr Payal Kanodia with athletes at Kettlebell Sports Haryana State Championship 2026

Organised by the Kettlebell Sport Haryana Association under the aegis of Kettlebell Sport India Association, the championship witnessed participation across Sub-Junior, Junior, Senior, and Veteran categories, bringing together top kettlebell athletes from across the state.

20 athletes represented M3M Foundation’s iMpower Club, collectively secured an exceptional tally of 30 medals, including 18 Gold, 9 Silver, and 3 Bronze, reaffirming the transformative impact of structured sports training and opportunity on underserved youth.

The championship also marked a historic moment with the participation of Haryana’s first Para Kettlebell Athlete from iMpower Club, reflecting M3M Foundation’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that sporting platforms remain accessible to talent across all abilities.

Young athletes such as Rohit, Rajnish, Sajid, Resham, and others delivered extraordinary performances, with several participants completing over 105 kettlebell lifts in a single go—a feat that demonstrated not just physical strength, but immense determination, stamina, and mental resilience. Coming from families of migrant workers and economically vulnerable communities, these children exemplified how talent, when nurtured with the right support, can transcend barriers and expectations.

Further elevating the spirit of the championship, Dr. Payal Kanodia, two time Gold Medallist at the world kettlebell championships, an accomplished international kettlebell sportsperson, joined the event alongside her sons, Master Kian Kanodia and Master Krishiv Kanodia, in an inspiring demonstration of encouragement and solidarity with the young athletes. Their participation reflected a powerful message of family-led inspiration and support for grassroots sports.

Adding to the prestige of the event, distinguished IUKL (International Union of Kettlebell Lifting) judges also participated in ceremonial kettlebell lifts during the championship, lending international sporting recognition to the event and inspiring athletes through their presence and engagement.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, “Every child deserves the opportunity to discover their strength and pursue excellence, regardless of their background. Witnessing our iMpower athletes—especially children from migrant worker families and our para athlete—compete with such confidence and determination is truly inspiring. Their achievements reinforce our belief that when young talent is nurtured with the right platform, mentorship, and encouragement, they can achieve extraordinary milestones. At M3M Foundation, we remain committed to building champions both on and off the field.”

The championship performance stands as yet another milestone in M3M Foundation’s ongoing mission to democratize access to quality sports training and competitive exposure for underserved communities. Through its Lakshya Program, the Foundation continues to nurture grassroots talent, empower young athletes, and create pathways for inclusive sporting excellence. 

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.