FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change

FICCI Aditya Birla Group CSR Center for Excellence has handed over seven thousand PPE kits for Ajmer, Udaipur, and Jaipur districts in collaboration with Plan India Institute in the wake of the global epidemic corona.

Mr. Sharma was handed over these kits at his private residence here today. On this occasion, Dr. Sharma called upon other private institutions to come forward in this era of crisis. He said that cooperation by the institutions would help in reducing the impact of the corona epidemic. The institute handed over 2500 PPE kits to the CMHO of Jaipur I. The remaining PPE kits will be sent to Ajmer and Udaipur districts.

On this occasion departmental officials including Naresh Joshi of FICCI, Bharat Singh of Aditya Birla Group, and Fateh Singh of Plan India were present.

The CSR Journal | Aug 12, 2020

KPIT Sparkle initiative wins 'FICCI CSR Award' for Exemplary Innovation

Pune-based KPIT Technologies Limited has emerged as the winner of this year's 'FICCI Corporate Social Responsibility Awards' in the category of 'Exemplary Innovation'. The award recognised its CSR initiative 'KPIT Sparkle' which is unlocking the power of IPR in India by connecting thousands of budding entrepreneurs to the incubation ecosystem every year, especially those from small towns and rural areas.

The contest helps them converge on the final objective of bringing innovative solutions to society. Every year, faculty and students of undergraduate, post-graduate and PhD courses, from the Science, Engineering, Design and Management streams of colleges and universities across India get this opportunity to turn their ideas into working prototypes for industrial production. In the last 5 years, 22000 ideas from 1500 institutions in T1 and T2 cities have been supported by KPIT Sparkle.

Kedar Sapre, Senior Marketing Specialist, of KPIT, said: "I'm grateful to FICCI's eminent panel of juries who have understood and recognised the value that KPIT Sparkle is creating by promoting the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship right at the grassroots level. India is a land of brilliant ideas and many often the best ideas come not from big cities but from students of smaller towns and rural areas. KPIT Sparkle nurtures such innovations from idea generation to product manufacture with a supportive incubation process."

India Education Diary | Aug 12, 2020

KPIT wins 'FICCI CSR Award' for incubating path-breaking innovations addressing the challenges of 'Real India'

Pune-based KPIT Technologies Limited has emerged as the winner of this year’s ‘FICCI Corporate Social Responsibility Awards’ for incubating path-breaking innovations by young entrepreneurs from across the country which address the challenges of ‘Real India.’

FICCI Corporate Social Responsibility Awards – India’s first CSR award – was instituted in 1999 by FICCI. The aim of the award is to identify and recognize the efforts of companies in integrating and internalizing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

The award to KPIT recognised its unique initiative ‘KPIT Sparkle’ which is unlocking the power of IPR in India by connecting thousands of budding entrepreneurs to the incubation ecosystem every year, especially those from small towns and rural areas. It helps them converge on the final objective of bringing innovative solutions to the society.

Every year, faculty and students of undergraduate, post-graduate and PhD courses, from the Science, Engineering, Design and Management streams of colleges and universities across India get this opportunity to turn their ideas into working prototypes for industrial production. In the last 5 years, 22000 ideas from 1500 institutions in T1 and T2 cities have been supported by KPIT Sparkle.

KPIT won the award in the category of ‘Exemplary Innovation (irrespective of the turnover of the company)’ after a stringent evaluation process by an independent panel consisting of eminent experts and industry leaders. This year’s jury was chaired by Mr. Amit Chandra, Chairman, Bain Capital-India, and Jury Members comprised Ms. Nishi Vasudeva, former CMD, HPCL, Ms. Ranjana Agarwal, founder Vaish Associates, Mr. Pranjal Sharma, Economic Analyst and Writer & Mr. Arumugam Kalimuthu, Director, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Institute.

Elaborating about the achievement , Mr. Kedar Sapre, Senior Marketing Specialist, of KPIT, said: “I’m grateful to FICCI’s eminent panel of jurors who have understood and recognised the value that KPIT Sparkle is creating by promoting the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship right at the grassroots level. India is a land of brilliant ideas and many often the best ideas come not from top notch institutions from big cities but from students of smaller towns and rural areas. KPIT Sparkle nurtures such innovations from idea generation to product manufacture with a supportive incubation process.”

Prose Integrated, a new age communication firm specialising in digital outreach, has been trusted by KPIT with KPIT Sparkle’s brand positioning and visibility. The firm also partnered with the core team of KPIT Sparkle for preparing its nomination for the FICCI CSR Awards.

According to Mr. Setu Shah, Founder & CEO, Prose Integrated, “While working on the KPIT’s entry for the FICCI CSR Award-2020, the challenge was to drive home the message that even IPR can be part of social projects if innovations are around solving the problems of Real India. We managed to successfully convey to the juries how and why KPIT Sparkle was about Innovation, IPR & Entrepreneurship for and by ‘Bharat’. KPIT winning this award, thus, is a proud moment for even us at Prose Integrated as we helped in nurturing and shaping ‘KPIT Sparkle’ and saw it grow year on year. I congratulate KPIT’s entire team for this huge win.”

The winners of the 18th FICCI CSR Awards-2020 were announced on July 27th, 2020. In the previous years, a number of companies including HPCL, ITC Limited, Mahindra & Mahindra, Cairn India, SAIL, Tata Tea, Infosys, Tata Chemicals, HINDALCO, TISCO, TELCO, Lupin, Gujarat Ambuja Cement, etc. have been recognised by the FICCI CSR Award for their exemplary work in the area of CSR.

IndianWeb2 | Aug 12, 2020

Pune-based KPIT wins 'FICCI CSR Award' for Incubating Path-Breaking Innovations Addressing the Challenges of ‘Real India’

About KPIT

KPIT is a global technology company with software solutions that will help mobility leapfrog towards an autonomous, clean, smart and connected future. With 6000+ Automobelievers across the globe, specialising in embedded software, AI & Digital solutions, KPIT enables customers to accelerate implementation of next generation mobility technologies. With development centers in Europe, USA, Japan, China, Thailand and India – KPIT works with leaders in mobility and is present where the ecosystem is transforming.

About Prose Integrated:

PROSE Integrated is a new generation communications firm offering integrated solutions in Digital & Social Media management, Public Relations (PR), Advocacy, Advertising & Events. With a completely self-owned latest infrastructure in Mumbai and branch offices in Bangalore, Delhi, Pune, Kolkata and Singapore, the firm has successfully completed over 80+ projects. Since 2014 the firm has an experience of partnering with clients across BFSI, Education, Healthcare, Startup Ecosystem, Trade associations, Think Tanks, Traditional manufacturing and New age service sectors. Its cloud-based ‘PROSE Dashboard’ is now used by India’s top corporates for deploying strategy and enhancing efficiency.

Manufacturing Today | Aug 04, 2020

Nuvoco wins the FICCI CSR Award 2018-19 under Education Category

Nuvoco Vistas has won the FICCI CSR Award 2018-19 in the Education category for their project ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ at the 18th edition of FICCI CSR Awards. The award ceremony was held virtually on 27th July, 2020 in the wake of COVID 19, where Anurag Thakur, Minister of State for Finance & Corporate Affairs graced the ceremony with his presence and facilitated the award to Joydeep Chatterjee, Chief of CSR & Corporate Affairs, Nuvoco for their project ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ near Jojobera Cement Plant, Jharkhand.

Nuvoco Vistas Corp have been long committed to sustainable growth and development, this is an intrinsic part of the company’s vision. Nuvoco has been able to give back to the society by making a difference in the lives of over 1,98,000 people across 103 villages through the company's five CSR pillars. Nuvoco’s ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ was introduced to empower the tribal community and improve the way of living. With a population of more than 10.2 crores, India has the single largest tribal population in the world. This is 8.6% of the total population of the country, lack of education in tribal areas is a glaring issue. Education is the primary element towards development of any country. Education will help them in meeting new challenges of life and will improve the immediate living condition. The tribal community needs the weapon of education to understand their rights and participate in the programme and policies made for their upliftment.

Nuvoco’s ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ project has been implemented in the year 2014 under their CSR pillar ‘Sakshar Bharat’ in order to provide formal education, create education awareness and contribute to the tribal population’s development in Sunderhattu and Sarenbera villages near Nuvoco’s Jojobera Cement Plant in Jharkhand. Under this initiative Nuvoco started Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya to empower the tribal population by giving them access to education and enrolling them into mainstream education. Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya currently educates 108 students from Nursery to class III and has shaped lives of more than 500 tribal children. This has also resulted in improvement of their livelihoods, as children too were involved in rag-picking and other hazardous activities. This initiative is a success as Nuvoco has observed zero dropouts since the inception of Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya.

As a socially responsible corporate Nuvoco plans to replicate the project by developing Model Government schools at various locations. The success of ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ has motivated the organisation to expand the school till class V. The company is contributing towards education across various plants, through the development of smart classes, providing better infrastructure, learning essentials, setting libraries and computer labs etc. They have already installed more than 35 smart classes in various government schools in Jharkhand. The company has been long committed to providing access to new age education to children in rural areas; they have touched 7300 students under their CSR pillar Sakshar Bharat

Speaking on the win Joydeep Chatterjee, Chief of CSR & Corporate Affairs at Nuvoco, said, “We are humbled by this recognition of our efforts towards creating a better tomorrow for children of tribal communities in the rural areas. ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ project is an ambitious initiative to bring the tribal children into mainstream education. Our aim is to instill the importance of education, bring that change in mindset, so that the children are able think of a better future. Sustainable growth and development is Nuvoco’s vision and in this regard development of villages with focus on women and children has been our endeavour. FICCI CSR Award is an encouraging validation of how small but meaningful initiative can lead to significant transformation. I would like to congratulate the entire team of Nuvoco who have worked relentlessly towards this and we will continue to thrive for excellence”

Rural Marketing | Aug 04, 2020

Nuvoco bags FICCI CSR Award for educating tribal kids

Nuvoco Vistas Corp, one of the India’s leading manufacturer and retailer of building materials has bagged the FICCI CSR Award 2018-19 in the Education category for their project ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ at the 18th edition of FICCI CSR Awards.

Speaking on the award, Joydeep Chatterjee, Chief of CSR & Corporate Affairs at Nuvoco, said, “We are humbled by this recognition of our efforts towards creating a better tomorrow for children of tribal communities in the rural areas. ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ project is an ambitious initiative to bring the tribal children into mainstream education. Our aim is to instill the importance of education, bring that change in mindset, so that the children are able think of a better future. FICCI CSR Award is an encouraging validation of how small but meaningful initiative can lead to significant transformation. I would like to congratulate the entire team of Nuvoco who have worked relentlessly towards this and we will continue to thrive for excellence.”

Nuvoco’s ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ project was initiated in 2014 under its CSR initiative ‘Sakshar Bharat’ in order to provide formal education, create education awareness and contribute to the tribal population’s development in Sunderhattu and Sarenbera villages near Nuvoco’s Jojobera cement plant in Jharkhand. Under this initiative, Nuvoco started Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya to empower the tribal population by giving them access to education and enrolling them into mainstream education. Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya currently educates 108 students from nursery to class III and has shaped lives of more than 500 tribal children. This has also resulted in improvement of their livelihoods, as children too were involved in rag-picking and other hazardous activities. This initiative is a success as Nuvoco has observed zero dropouts since the inception of Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya.

Nuvoco is planing to replicate the project by developing model government schools at various locations. The success of ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ has motivated the organisation to expand the school till class V. The company is contributing towards education across various plants, through the development of smart classes, providing better infrastructure, learning essentials, setting libraries and computer labs among other utilities.

Under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Nuvoco has been able to make a difference in the lives of over 198,000 people across 103 villages. Nuvoco’s ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ was introduced to empower the tribal community and improve the way of living. With a population of more than 10.2 crore, India has the single largest tribal population in the world which is lacking of education in tribal areas is a glaring issue.

Cemnet News | Aug 04, 2020

Nuvoco wins the FICCI CSR Award 2018-19 for education

Nuvoco Vistas Corp Ltd has won the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) CSR Award 2018-19 in the Education category for their project ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ at the 18th edition of FICCI CSR Awards.

The award ceremony was held virtually on 27 July 2020 in the wake of COVID-19, where Shri Anurag Thakur, Minister of State for Finance & Corporate Affairs, facilitated the award to Joydeep Chatterjee, who heads Nuvoco's CSR and Corporate Affairs, for the ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ project.

Nuvoco’s ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ project was implemented in 2014 under the CSR pillar ‘Sakshar Bharat’ to provide formal education, create education awareness and contribute to the tribal population’s development in Sunderhattu and Sarenbera villages near Nuvoco’s Jojobera cement plant.

Nuvoco’s ‘Shikshit Sunderhattu’ was introduced to empower the tribal community and improve the way of living as lack of education in tribal areas remains an issue. With a population of more than 10.2m or 8.6 per cent of its total population, India has the single largest tribal population in the world.

Under this initiative Nuvoco started Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya to empower the tribal population by giving them access to education and enrolling them into mainstream education. Birsa Prathmik Vidyalaya currently educates 108 students from nursery to class III and has shaped lives of more than 500 tribal children.

United News of India | Jul 29, 2020

Dalmia Bharat Group wins FICCI CSR Award for Environment Sustainability

The Economic Times | Jul 27, 2020

Industries should spend funds on CSR activities to help build a better India, says MoS Thakur

The industry should not shy away from spending its CSR fund as it would help make India a better place for present and future generations, Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs Anurag Thakur said on Monday. He also said that the government has made several changes in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) law to de-criminalise certain provisions.

Without taking name, Thakur said that a multi-national company which had not spent close to Rs 500 crore in the last two years as part of its CSR activities was issued notice earlier after which it was "happy" to spend that money at that time.

But now when the government has de-criminalised certain provisions, it is "running away again from spending that money".

"So that is why at times the government is forced to bring in such kind of sections into the CSR. So my request to all of you is that it is our responsibility towards our nation, towards our public, and I am sure all of you, who have contributed immensely, will contribute more and bring more people out of poverty and make India a better place for present and future generations," he added.

The minister also requested the industry to create more awareness to contain pollution of rivers and also help the government in its fight against coronavirus.

Financial Express | Jul 27, 2020

Anurag Thakur says concept of social responsibility not new to India; urges firms to take up CSR work

Urging more and more companies to step forward for taking up social responsibilities, Anurag Thakur, Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs, said that the concept of corporate social responsibility or CSR is not new to India. “Historically speaking, social responsibility is one of the well established phenomena in India and the country has the world’s richest tradition of CSR,” he said at the 18th FICCI CSR Awards program on Monday. MoS Anurag Thakur also lauded the efforts of many companies, groups, individuals during the coronavirus and said some of them were able to help fellow citizens even before the government efforts reached them. This year’s CSR Awards have been given to NTPC Ltd for women empowerment, Bosch Ltd for skill development, SAP India Pvt Ltd and others.

“CSR is an opportunity to work with like-minded partners of the society at large. And for corporates, it is one of the most pertinent means to connect with their audience. It sends a message that if you have come up with a big plant, it will eventually help the local community,” he said, urging companies to participate in CSR activities proactively. At the event, he also discussed various government initiatives to push companies to take up CSR activities and said that firms must themselves seek out to control the damage that they do to the environment and nature. “Not only in neighbouring areas but all over the country, if you will there is a need to uplift and help, you must do that,” he said.

Industry body FICCI has been organising India’s Corporate Social Responsibility Award since 1999 to encourage corporations to participate in inclusive growth and over the course of years has recognised a number of companies in both public and private for their innovative programmes. The 18th FICCI CSR Awards was held virtually in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and was earlier scheduled for 24th March 2020.

United News of India | Jul 27, 2020

NTPC awarded with prestigious FICCI "Jury Commendation certificate" for Women Empowerment

Outlook | Jul 27, 2020

Industry should spend funds on CSR activities to help build a better India: Thakur

He also said that the government has made several changes in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) law to de-criminalise certain provisions.

But now when the government has de-criminalised certain provisions, it is "running away again from spending that money".

The minister also requested the industry to create more awareness to contain pollution of rivers and also help the government in its fight against coronavirus.

On rising pollutant levels in rivers like Yamuna and Ganga post lockdowns, the minister said that lesser pollution in rivers in the last two months showed that it is the industry which was the main source of pollution.

He said it is a sign from the nature so the focus should not be only on making profits but also on contributing in a different manner.

"Start affluent treatment plants, do not throw waste into the rivers or fields. This is putting more burden on hospitals....it is not good for India," Thakur added.

Orissa Diary | Jul 27, 2020

NTPC awarded with prestigious FICCI "Jury Commendation Certificate" for Women Empowerment

NTPC has been conferred with the prestigious FICCI “Jury Commendation Certificate” under the Category “Women Empowerment”. The award has been received for NTPC’s flagship “Girl Empowerment Mission” Project. NTPC is the only PSU to receive the FICCI Award this year. Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Hon’ble Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs was the Chief Guest at the virtual 18th FICCI award ceremony held on July 27, 2020.

Shri Gurdeep Singh, CMD NTPC received the certificate on behalf of the company. In his video address on receiving the award, CMD NTPC stated that this is humble, yet valuable contribution by NTPC to the national cause of gender justice and empowerment.

GEM has been launched by NTPC to provide holistic education to girl children in the age group of 10-12 years. The programme prepares the girl child to become a well-rounded adult. Furthermore, it encourages girl children to get connected to a subject with their creative skills; develops psychological, social, and emotional growth.

GEM workshop is organized in all Stations of NTPC across the country including NTPC Talcher Kaniha, where over 120 girls participated from peripheral villages. The workshop at NTPC Kaniha was conducted for a total of five weeks, comprising of summer holidays followed by a follow-up session in the winter break and included a variety of curricular and extra-curricular activities such as sports, theatre, dance, yoga, etc. to instill curiosity, help them develop better communication and social skills and make learning an engaging and meaningful experience.

PSU Connect | Jul 27, 2020

NTPC awarded with Prestigious FICCI Jury Commendation Certificate for Women Empowermet

NTPC has been conferred with the prestigious FICCI "Jury Commendation Certificate" under the Category "Women Empowerment". The award has been received for NTPC's flagship "Girl Empowerment Mission" Project. NTPC is the only PSU to receive the FICCI Award this year. Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, union Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs was the Chief Guest at the virtual 18th FICCI award ceremony held today.

Shri Gurdeep Singh, CMD NTPC received the certificate on behalf of the company. In his video address on receiving the award, CMD NTPC stated that this a humble, yet valuable contribution by NTPC to the national cause of gender justice and empowerment.

GEM has been launched by NTPC to provide holistic education to girl children in the age group of 10-12 years. The programme prepares the girl child to become a well-rounded adult; instills curiosity and helps them develop better communication and social skills. Furthermore, it encourages girl children to get connected to a subject with their creative skills; develops psychological, social & emotional growth, makes learning natural, engaging, and a fun and meaningful experience.

Global Prime News | Jul 27, 2020

NTPC awarded with prestigious FICCI "Jury Commendation Certificate" for Women Empowerment

Tax India Online | Jul 27, 2020

Eight companies conferred with FICCI CSR Awards

The MoS, Mr Anurag Thakur, today marked his presence at the 18th FICCI CSR Awards virtual presentation ceremony where eight companies were conferred with the FICCI CSR Awards, eight companies with Jury Commendation Certificates and 18 finalists were acknowledged with an appreciation Plaque.

Mr Thakur said that CSR is an opportunity to work with like-minded partners for the betterment of the society at large. Business cannot be successful if the society around you does not prosper. A well planned and well-executed CSR activity can help in fostering a strong bond between the company and its people. It also helps in developing a deeper human connection. He added that the consumers now are also aware and they like to align with companies that invest their time, money and efforts in creating a sustainable environment for all.

Mr Thakur said that CSR is the most pertinent means for corporates to connect with their audience. Setting up a plant at any location, not only helps the immediate locality but the country at large by the industry’s contribution in uplifting and helping the poor. He added that corporate from diverse sectors have been recognized and rewarded today for contributing towards social good.

The Minister said that in the unprecedented times of COVID-19, the government has responded decisively with a strong approach and the need is to strengthen participation from the private sector. He added, “I would urge each one of you, to do your bit in this battle against coronavirus.” Mr Thakur also discussed, in detail, the initiatives of the government in the space of CSR and the amendments made to the CSR Act to decriminalize some of its provisions."

Metro Vaartha | Jul 27, 2020

Industry should spend funds on CSR activities to help build a better India: Thakur

He also said that the government has made several changes in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) law to de-criminalise certain provisions.

But now when the government has de-criminalised certain provisions, it is "running away again from spending that money".

"On one hand, we help the corporate so that they do not need to go through this pain of criminal sections, but on the other hand.. if the companies are making millions, not only millions but billions out of India...why they do not want to spend that money on the Indians," he said in a FICCI webinar on CSR. "So that is why at times the government is forced to bring in such kind of sections into the CSR. So my request to all of you is that it is our responsibility towards our nation, towards our public, and I am sure all of you, who have contributed immensely, will contribute more and bring more people out of poverty and make India a better place for present and future generations," he added.

The minister also requested the industry to create more awareness to contain pollution of rivers and also help the government in its fight against coronavirus.

He said it is a sign from the nature so the focus should not be only on making profits but also on contributing in a different manner.

"Start affluent treatment plants, do not throw waste into the rivers or fields. This is putting more burden on hospitals....it is not good for India," Thakur added.

4PS News | Jul 27, 2020

NTPC awarded with prestigious FICCI "Jury Commendation Certificate" for Women Empowerment

NTPC has been conferred with the prestigious FICCI "Jury Commendation Certificate" under the Category "Women Empowerment". The award has been received for NTPC's flagship "Girl Empowerment Mission" Project. NTPC is the only PSU to receive the FICCI Award this year. Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Hon'ble Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs was the Chief Guest at the virtual 18th FICCI award ceremony held today.

Odisha Barta | Jul 27, 2020

NTPC is the only PSU to receive the FICCI Award this year

By Scoop | Jul 15, 2020

UNICEF India Partners with FICCI to launch #Reimagine Campaign

The UNICEF INDIA has entered into partnership with the Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), to co-develop #Reimagine Campaign.
The #Reimagine Campaign of UNICEF aims to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the COVID-19 response and its after-math in India.
The FICCI SEDF will leverage its resources like cash and core assets to mobilize funds that can be utilized to help generate support for the most vulnerable population affected due to COVID disruption.

Daily Hunt | Jul 15, 2020

UNICEF INDIA partners with FICCI for #Reimagine Campaign

UNICEF INDIA has tied-up with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry's (FICCI), Socio-Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) to jointly develop UNICEF's #Reimagine Campaign. The campaign aims to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the COVID-19 response and its after-math in India. It will also help in avoiding the potential long-term damage to business operations as well as employment pipeline.

To support the UNICEF INDIA campaign, FICCI SEDF will leverage its resources such as cash and core assets to mobilize funds in order to generate support for the most vulnerable population affected due to COVID disruption. It will also reach out to its membership base to garner support for the campaign.

Affairs Cloud | Jul 14, 2020

UNICEF India & FICCI's SEDF joined hands to Initiate "#Reimagine Campaign" to support vulnerable populations and Children in India

The Economic Times | Jul 14, 2020

COVID-19: UNICEF, FICCI join hands for action plan to support vulnerable populations

UNICEF on Monday announced its partnership with FICCI to jointly develop a campaign to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the ongoing COVID-19 response and its aftermath in India. FICCI and UNICEF will work on an action plan based on the document that is being developed jointly by the International Chamber of Commerce and UNICEF for governments and businesses on the actions they can take to support the post-pandemic recovery.

Ogilvy is offering pro bono support in developing the creative narrative for the campaign, according to a statement by UNICEF. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry's (FICCI)-Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) will reach out to its membership base to garner support for the campaign and leverage its resources like cash and core assets to mobilise funds that can be utilised to help generate support for the most vulnerable populations affected due to the COVID disruption.

"The partnership will also help avoid potential long-term damage to business operations and employment pipelines, and their most important resource, their personnel, their children and their families," it said. While children are not the face of this pandemic, they are its hidden victims and remain the most vulnerable to the broader impact of the pandemic, the statement noted.

Speaking about the partnership, Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI said, "Concrete action from all stakeholders including businesses, international organisations and civil society is needed to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all children and ensure that no child is left behind. Key actions need to be taken now and resources leveraged to help the most vulnerable."

Deccan Herald | Jul 13, 2020

Covid-19: UNICEF, FICCI join hands for action plan to support vulnerable populations

UNICEF on Monday announced its partnership with FICCI to jointly develop a campaign to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the ongoing Covid-19 response and its aftermath in India.

FICCI and UNICEF will work on an action plan based on the document that is being developed jointly by the International Chamber of Commerce and UNICEF for governments and businesses on the actions they can take to support the post-pandemic recovery.

Ogilvy is offering pro bono support in developing the creative narrative for the campaign, according to a statement by UNICEF.

The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry's (FICCI)-Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) will reach out to its membership base to garner support for the campaign and leverage its resources like cash and core assets to mobilise funds that can be utilised to help generate support for the most vulnerable populations affected due to the Covid disruption.

While children are not the face of this pandemic, they are its hidden victims and remain the most vulnerable to the broader impact of the pandemic, the statement noted.

"The impact of Covid-19 on children has the potential to be devastating and lifelong. Millions of children will have lost out on crucial cognitive development and learning time, the risk of an increasing number of children and young people facing abuse and exploitation is real, and gains made in the measures of health and nutrition status of children is likely to see a decline," said Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF Representative in India.

Outlook | Jul 13, 2020

COVID-19: UNICEF, FICCI join hands for action plan to support vulnerable populations

Ogilvy is offering pro bono support in developing the creative narrative for the campaign, according to a statement by UNICEF.

While children are not the face of this pandemic, they are its hidden victims and remain the most vulnerable to the broader impact of the pandemic, the statement noted.

The Week | Jul 13, 2020

COVID-19 UNICEF FICCI join hands for action plan to support vulnerable populations

Ogilvy is offering pro bono support in developing the creative narrative for the campaign, according to a statement by UNICEF.

While children are not the face of this pandemic, they are its hidden victims and remain the most vulnerable to the broader impact of the pandemic, the statement noted.

India Education Diary | Jul 13, 2020

UNICEF INDIA announced its partnership with FICCI for #Reimagine Campaign

UNICEF INDIA today announced its partnership with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI), Socio-Economic Development Foundation (SEDF)to jointly develop UNICEF’s#Reimagine Campaign to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the COVID-19 response and its after-math in India.

FICCI SEDF will reach out to its membership base to garner support for the campaign and leverage its resources like cash and core assets to mobilize funds that can be utilized to help generate support for the most vulnerable population affected due to COVID disruption. The partnership will also help avoid potential long-term damage to business operations and employment pipelines, and their most important resource, their personnel, their children and their families

While children are not the face of this pandemic, they are its hidden victims and remain the most vulnerable to the broader impact of the pandemic.

“The impact of COVID-19 on children has the potential to be devastating and lifelong. Millions of children will have lost out on crucial cognitive development and learning time, the risk of increasing number of children and young people facing abuse and exploitation is real, and gains made in the measures of health and nutrition status of children is likely to see a decline. Children in the poorest and most vulnerable segments of societies are at greatest risk,” said Dr. Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF Representative in India.

Speaking about partnership, Dr Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI said, “Concrete action from all stakeholders including businesses, international organizations and civil society is needed to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all children and ensure that no child is left behind. Key actions need to be taken now and resources leveraged to help the most vulnerable. FICCI SEDF and UNICEF will collectively reimagine initiatives and actions that will benefit all children.”

FICCI and UNICEF will work on an action plan based on the document that is being developed jointly by the International Chambers of Commerce and UNICEF for governments and businesses on the actions they can take to support the post-pandemic recovery. Ogilvy is offering pro bono support in developing the creative narrative for the campaign.

Orissa Diary | Jul 13, 2020

UNICEF India Partners with FICCI for #Reimagine Campaign

UNICEF INDIA today announced its partnership with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI), Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) to jointly develop UNICEF’s #Reimagine Campaign to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the COVID-19 response and its after-math in India.

While children are not the face of this pandemic, they are its hidden victims and remain the most vulnerable to the broader impact of the pandemic.

Devdiscourse | Jul 13, 2020

COVID-19: UNICEF, FICCI join hands for action plan to support vulnerable populations

"The impact of COVID-19 on children has the potential to be devastating and lifelong. Millions of children will have lost out on crucial cognitive development and learning time, the risk of increasing number of children and young people facing abuse and exploitation is real, and gains made in the measures of health and nutrition status of children is likely to see a decline," said Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF Representative in India. Speaking about the partnership, Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI said, "Concrete action from all stakeholders including businesses, international organisations and civil society is needed to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all children and ensure that no child is left behind. Key actions need to be taken now and resources leveraged to help the most vulnerable".

Latest LY | Jul 13, 2020

COVID-19: UNICEF, FICCI join hands for action plan to support vulnerable populations

Daily Mail India | Jul 13, 2020

COVID-19: UNICEF, FICCI join hands for action plan to support vulnerable populations

UNICEF on Monday introduced its partnership with FICCI to collectively develop a marketing campaign to support probably the most vulnerable populations and youngsters through the ongoing COVID-19 response and its aftermath in India. FICCI and UNICEF will work on an action plan primarily based on the doc that’s being developed collectively by the International Chamber of Commerce and UNICEF for governments and companies on the actions they’ll take to support the submit-pandemic restoration.

Ogilvy is providing professional bono support in growing the inventive narrative for the marketing campaign, in accordance to a press release by UNICEF. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI)-Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) will attain out to its membership base to garner support for the marketing campaign and leverage its sources like money and core belongings to mobilise funds that may be utilised to assist generate support for probably the most vulnerable populations affected due to the COVID disruption.

“The partnership will also help avoid potential long-term damage to business operations and employment pipelines, and their most important resource, their personnel, their children and their families,” it stated. While kids will not be the face of this pandemic, they’re its hidden victims and stay probably the most vulnerable to the broader impression of the pandemic, the assertion famous.

“The impact of COVID-19 on children has the potential to be devastating and lifelong. Millions of children will have lost out on crucial cognitive development and learning time, the risk of increasing number of children and young people facing abuse and exploitation is real, and gains made in the measures of health and nutrition status of children is likely to see a decline,” stated Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF Representative in India.

Speaking concerning the partnership, Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI stated, “Concrete action from all stakeholders including businesses, international organisations and civil society is needed to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all children and ensure that no child is left behind. Key actions need to be taken now and resources leveraged to help the most vulnerable.”

Exchange4Media | Jul 13, 2020

UNICEF India partnrs with FICCI for #Reimagine campaign

UNICEF INDIA has announced its partnership with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI), Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF)to jointly develop UNICEF’s#Reimagine Campaign to support the most vulnerable populations and children during the COVID-19 response and its after-math in India.

While children are not the face of this pandemic, they are its hidden victims and remain the most vulnerable to the broader impact of the pandemic.

Speaking about partnership, Dr Sangita Reddy,President, FICCI said, "Concrete action from all stakeholders including businesses, international organizations and civil society is needed to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all children and ensure that no child is left behind. Key actions need to be taken now and resources leveraged to help the most vulnerable. FICCI SEDF and UNICEF will collectively reimagine initiatives and actions that will benefit all children."

FICCI and UNICEF will work on an action plan based on the document that is being developed jointly by the International Chambers of Commerce and UNICEF for governments and businesses on the actions they can take to support the post-pandemic recovery.Ogilvy is offering pro bono support in developing the creative narrative for the campaign.

Suggest Best | Jul 13, 2020

COVID-19: UNICEF, FICCI be part of fingers for motion plan to assist weak populations

UNICEF on Monday introduced its partnership with FICCI to collectively develop a marketing campaign to assist essentially the most weak populations and youngsters through the ongoing COVID-19 response and its aftermath in India. FICCI and UNICEF will work on an motion plan based mostly on the doc that’s being developed collectively by the International Chamber of Commerce and UNICEF for governments and companies on the actions they’ll take to assist the post-pandemic restoration.

Ogilvy is providing professional bono assist in creating the inventive narrative for the marketing campaign, in keeping with an announcement by UNICEF. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI)-Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) will attain out to its membership base to garner assist for the marketing campaign and leverage its assets like money and core property to mobilise funds that may be utilised to assist generate assist for essentially the most weak populations affected as a result of COVID disruption.

“The partnership will also help avoid potential long-term damage to business operations and employment pipelines, and their most important resource, their personnel, their children and their families,” it mentioned. While kids will not be the face of this pandemic, they’re its hidden victims and stay essentially the most weak to the broader influence of the pandemic, the assertion famous.

“The impact of COVID-19 on children has the potential to be devastating and lifelong. Millions of children will have lost out on crucial cognitive development and learning time, the risk of increasing number of children and young people facing abuse and exploitation is real, and gains made in the measures of health and nutrition status of children is likely to see a decline,” mentioned Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF Representative in India.

Speaking in regards to the partnership, Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI mentioned, “Concrete action from all stakeholders including businesses, international organisations and civil society is needed to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all children and ensure that no child is left behind. Key actions need to be taken now and resources leveraged to help the most vulnerable.”

Spontac News 24x7 | Jul 13, 2020

COVID-19: UNICEF, FICCI be a part of arms for motion plan to help susceptible populations

UNICEF on Monday introduced its partnership with FICCI to collectively develop a marketing campaign to help essentially the most vulnerable populations and kids throughout the ongoing COVID-19 response and its aftermath in India. FICCI and UNICEF will work on an motion plan primarily based on the doc that’s being developed collectively by the Worldwide Chamber of Commerce and UNICEF for governments and companies on the actions they’ll take to help the post-pandemic restoration.

Ogilvy is providing professional bono help in growing the inventive narrative for the marketing campaign, in accordance with an announcement by UNICEF. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Business’s (FICCI)-Socio Financial Growth Basis (SEDF) will attain out to its membership base to garner help for the marketing campaign and leverage its assets like money and core belongings to mobilise funds that may be utilised to assist generate help for essentially the most susceptible populations affected because of the COVID disruption.

“The partnership will also help avoid potential long-term damage to business operations and employment pipelines, and their most important resource, their personnel, their children and their families,” it stated. Whereas kids usually are not the face of this pandemic, they’re its hidden victims and stay essentially the most susceptible to the broader impact of the pandemic, the assertion famous.

“The impact of COVID-19 on children has the potential to be devastating and lifelong. Millions of children will have lost out on crucial cognitive development and learning time, the risk of increasing number of children and young people facing abuse and exploitation is real, and gains made in the measures of health and nutrition status of children is likely to see a decline,” stated Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF Consultant in India.

Talking concerning the partnership, Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI stated, “Concrete action from all stakeholders including businesses, international organisations and civil society is needed to secure a peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all children and ensure that no child is left behind. Key actions need to be taken now and resources leveraged to help the most vulnerable.”

Yahoo News | Apr 15, 2020

Goodera is leading India Inc's efforts against COVID-19 with CSR and Employee-driven Philanthropy

Goodera, a Series B funded startup and India's largest and most trusted platform for CSR and employee volunteering, is leading India Inc's efforts against the COVID-19 pandemic which has significantly changed the way 'we live, interact, and do business'.

The rapidly spreading COVID-19 has forced countries to take drastic measures to limit its spread. As leaders in corporate goodness, Goodera has taken up several initiatives to fight the pandemic effectively and efficiently. Global brands now rely on Goodera's expertise as they join forces with them to fight COVID-19.

With expenditure to fight the spread of the Covid infection being counted as a CSR expense by the Government of India, Goodera has come up with various projects that can be implemented using CSR funds. These include the provision of medical supplies to frontline health workers, funding research into cures and vaccines, financial support to daily wage earners, and more. The company is working with large corporations on Covid relief including Amazon, Hexaware, Lenovo, IIFL , Toyota and Kirloskar Motor to name a few.

Ms Madhu Jain, Director, IIFL Foundation,the CSR arm of IIFL group, said, 'We acted immediately as providing protective gear to frontline medical staff was an emergency need. Also, our 18000+ employees are engaged in their own ways through Goodera.' Goodera curates a list of real-time requirements for medical institutions, NGOs and state governments which are mapped to organizations looking to channelize CSR funds and are fulfilled by approved, transparent, vetted vendors and NGOs. Goodera's partnership with FICCI SEDF also helps to maintain a holistic overview of the situation in India while maintaining last-mile connectivity with the extensive network of NGOs. These NGOs include Bhumi, India Cares Foundation, Surabhi foundation, People to People Hope Foundation, Action Aid, and more.

Dipali Sharma, Director - Organisational effectiveness and CSR , Action Aid, said, 'The partnership with Goodera has enabled us to provide some very timely support to over 2000 migrant and daily wage workers that ActionAid reached out to across six cities. The Goodera team has worked shoulder to shoulder with us to help build the connect with corporates willing to reach out and the immediate needs on the ground across these six locations. This has been a great service to humankind.' Goodera, a leader in employee volunteering, has enabled its massive network of volunteers to give back to the community even when people are unable to leave their homes. Goodera has helped volunteers support causes with virtual volunteering opportunities. Some of those opportunities are creating content to spread awareness in vernacular languages, assisting NGOs to execute projects, and lend their management expertise to NGOs looking to scale up their operations.

Goodera has come up with several virtual volunteering and donation opportunities for employee-driven philanthropy. These include supporting various NGOs who are tirelessly working on the frontlines and supporting the daily wage earners whose income has halted due to the lockdown. Goodera is working with corporates to encourage their employees to use the donation opportunities available on Goodera's platform.

The clients are fighting COVID-19 using Goodera's technology. For instance, Rapido and Porter are conducting a donation campaign to financially support its drivers who have lost their daily earnings because of the lockdown.

Speaking about the donation drives, Porter commented, 'Porter, India's largest intracity truck aggregator, is raising funds to support the truck drivers and their families who have lost their daily earnings due to the lockdown. The fundraising platform is powered by Goodera. We are thankful to the Goodera team for such fast execution.' Goodera has also shared its expertise with the entire community in India by creating a dedicated portal for COVID-19. The company has over 1 million volunteers sign up on the platform and 2.42 lakhs users are actively participating for COVID-19 reliefs campaigns. Fundraising is increasing actively everyday and the impact is achieved on ground with the support of our partners.

'We are bringing all our learnings to India Inc to respond to the Covid crisis in the most effective way. Our team is working with all stakeholders together for fast action,' said Abhishek Humbad, Founder and CEO of Goodera. 'We are doing all we can to ensure the safety of our frontline workers, daily wage earners, and underprivileged communities. We support all the requirements of those fighting the pandemic and encourage companies and individuals to contribute to the same. I have complete faith that India Inc. can outlast this pandemic.' Goodera is confident in the efforts that India has put in to combat this pandemic and will support the entire ecosystem in its endeavours against COVID-19.

Republic TV | Apr 06, 2020

Aditya Birla Group Contributes Rs.400 Crore To PM CARES Fund Amid COVID-19 Crisis

The Aditya Birla Group announced a contribution of Rs.400 crore towards the PM CARES fund amid the novel coronavirus crisis. Apart from this, it declared that Rs.50 crore would be dedicated to the supply of 1 million masks N95 masks and 2,80,000 personal protective equipment and ventilators. Moreover, a grant of Rs.50 crore has been sanctioned to the FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence to facilitate relief measures to tackle the novel coronavirus crisis. Lauding Kumar Mangalam Birla, the chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, Prime Minister Narendra Modi observed that this contribution would have a positive impact on fellow citizens.

The Aditya Birla Group has activated a 100-bed COVID-19 facility in partnership with the BMC at the Seven Hills Hospital in Mumbai besides earmarking more than 200 beds for novel coronavirus patients in areas such as Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach. Furthermore, it has started the production of 1 million triple-layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments. It has also set up awareness camps to reinforce the message of social distancing.

Republic TV | Apr 06, 2020

Aditya Birla Group Contributes Rs.400 Crore To PM CARES Fund Amid COVID-19 Crisis

Newsjizz | Apr 04, 2020

Birlas donates Rs 500 million to fight the virus

Aditya Birla Group it has contributed Rs 500 million to relief measures, of which Rs 400 million will go to the Fund. He also said he will donate Rs 100 million to the Prime Minister's fund. Bank employees will contribute two days' salary.

From the balance of the group's aid initiative, a grant of Rs 50 million rupees has been awarded to the CSR FICCI-Aditya Birla Center of Excellence, while another Rs 50 million will go towards supplying 1 million N95 masks, equipment for 2.8 lakh personal protection (EPP)) as well as fans.

Rajashree Birla, President of the Aditya Birla The Center for Community Initiatives and Rural Development said: Given the severity of the disruption, there is an urgent need for a multiple response that includes financial and material support, medical assistance and community responsibility.

Crop protection products maker UPL has also pledged Rs 75 crore to the PM CARES Fund, in addition to providing PPE units to assist with the safety of frontline sanitation and sanitation personnel. UPL said it is also complementing government efforts by involving 200 modern mechanical spray machines (Falcons) and 225 staff members to help local administrations spray disinfectant in various public and private spaces such as hospitals, streets, police stations and railway stations. Defense employees PSU Bharat Electronics (BEL) have contributed a day's salary worth Rs 2.7 crore to the Prime Minister's fund. The company itself has contributed Rs 10 crore. It has committed Rs 20 crore to provide critical healthcare equipment, such as ventilators and analyzers, to various healthcare facilities across India, and 40,000 PCR test kits to be delivered to the Indian Council of Medical Research. The money will also be used to establish a testing laboratory at the National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar, Haryana, which is converting an 800-bed hospital into a Covid-19 critical care center, creating isolation units at selected Siemens facilities. and support migrant and temporary workers.

Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora tweeted about creating a Covid relief fund. He said the company's management and board would contribute $ 4 million. He also said the company would give four times the amount that employees contribute. Previous salary to contribute, he tweeted.

Aditya Birla Group said, given that Covid-19 presents an unprecedented challenge to the nation, this crisis calls for an even stronger and concerted action from corporate citizens to join the national effort and help the government in the fight against the pandemic. The group is also activating a 100-bed Covid-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in Mumbai, in partnership with BMC. This initiative is being spearheaded by Neerja Birla. It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach.

The group also began production of 1 million triple-layer surgical masks and 1-lakh overalls with the support of the textile ministry. In addition, it participates in community and self-help groups in the domestic production of thousands of thousands of masks in various places.

UPL said it has kept the facilities of its educational institutions such as the Gyan Dham School and the Sandra Shroff Rofel College of Nursing in Vapi on hold, with the necessary arrangements to operate them as quarantine centers when necessary.

Inventiva | Apr 04, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 Cr for COVID-19 fight

The Aditya Birla Group on Friday committed Rs 500 crore towards COVID-19 relief measures, of which Rs 400 crore will go to the PM-CARES Fund.

This is one of the highest contributions from a corporate till date.

A host of leaders from India Inc have been pooling in resources to fight the pandemic, which has affected over 2,400 people in India and taken more than 70 lives.

Apart from this, the group will activate a 100-bed COVID-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in suburban Mumbai, in partnership with the city’s civic body, to be spearheaded by Neerja Birla, the statement said.

It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for COVID-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur, and Kharach.

The statement said the group, which also has interests in textiles, has already commenced production of one million triple layer surgical masks and one lakh coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry. It has also involved community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations, and is undertaking awareness activities in 200 locations.

Anybody going through difficulties can call on the toll-free helpline 1800-120-820050 and speak to experienced and trained mental health counsellors from MPower to deal with the challenging times, the statement said.

Inshorts | Apr 04, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits ₹500 crore for fight against coronavirus

The Aditya Birla Group has committed ₹500 crore towards India's relief measures to fight against the coronavirus pandemic. The group will be contributing ₹400 crore to the PM-CARES fund and ₹50 crore to supply 10 lakh N95 masks, 2.8 lakh personal protective equipment (PPE), and ventilators. The remaining ₹50 crore will be granted to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence.

Your Story | Apr 04, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 Cr for COVID-19 fight

The Aditya Birla Group on Friday committed Rs 500 crore towards COVID-19 relief measures, of which Rs 400 crore will go to the PM-CARES Fund.

This is one of the highest contributions from a corporate till date.

A host of leaders from India Inc have been pooling in resources to fight the pandemic, which has affected over 2,400 people in India and taken more than 70 lives.

Apart from this, the group will activate a 100-bed COVID-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in suburban Mumbai, in partnership with the city's civic body, to be spearheaded by Neerja Birla, the statement said.

It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for COVID-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur, and Kharach.

The Times of India | Apr 04, 2020

Birlas donate Rs 500 crore to fight virus

Aditya Birla Group has contributed Rs 500 crore towards Covid-19 relief measures, of which Rs 400 crore will be towards the PM CARES Fund. SBI also said it will donate Rs 100 crore to the PM’s fund. The bank’s employees will contribute two days’ salary.

Of the balance of the Birla group’s relief initiative, a grant of Rs 50 crore has been made to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence, while another Rs 50 crore is going towards supply of 1 million N95 masks, 2.8 lakh personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as ventilators.

Rajashree Birla, chairperson of the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said, “Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility.”

Crop protection products manufacturer UPL too has pledged Rs 75 crore to the PM CARES Fund, in addition to providing PPE units to help with the safety of the frontline healthcare and sanitisation personnel. UPL said it is also supplementing the government efforts by engaging 200 modern mechanical spraying machines (Falcons) and 225 staff members to assist local administrations in spraying disinfectant at various public and private spaces like hospitals, streets, police stations and railway stations. Employees of defence PSU Bharat Electronics (BEL) have contributed one day’s salary amounting to Rs 2.7 crore to the PM’s fund. The company itself has contributed Rs 10 crore. Siemens India has committed Rs 20 crore towards providing critical medical care equipment such as ventilators & analysers to several healthcare facilities across India, and 40,000 PCR test kits to be delivered to Indian Council of Medical Research. The money will also be used to set up a test lab at the National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar, Haryana, which is converting an 800-bed hospital into a Covid-19 critical care centre, create isolation units at select Siemens’ facilities, and support migrant and temporary workers.

Palo Alto Networks CEO Nikesh Arora tweeted about setting up a Covid relief fund. He said the company’s management and board would contribute $4 million. He also said the company would give four times the amount employees contribute. “Foregoing salary to contribute,” he tweeted.

The group has also commenced production of 1 million triple-layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments with the support of the textiles ministry. Besides, it is involved in community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations.

UPL said it has kept on standby the premises of its educational institutions like Gyan Dham School and Sandra Shroff Rofel College of Nursing, in Vapi, with necessary arrangements to operate them as quarantine centres when required.

Live Mint | Apr 04, 2020

Aditya Birla Group donates ₹400 crore to PM-CARES Fund for covid-19 relief

The Aditya Birla Group Friday said it has donated ₹400 crore to the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-CARES) Fund, besides setting aside ₹100 crore towards its own corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative and for the supply of N95 masks, personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilators.

“Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility," Rajashree Birla, chairperson of the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said in a press release.

The $48.3 billion business conglomerate, led by billionaire Kumar Mangalam Birla, which runs multiple businesses in 14 industry sectors including fashion retail, telecommunication, chemicals and financial services, plans to donate ₹50 crore to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for covid-19 relief measures, while the remaining ₹50 crore will be used to supply one million N95 masks, 2.8 lakh PPE, and ventilators. The group said it had already started production of one million triple-layer surgical masks and one lakh coverall garments with the support of the textiles ministry, and was involved with community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations.

The group also plans to activate a 100-bed covid-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in Mumbai, in partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur, and Kharach.

It also plans to launch awareness camps across 200 locations and hold door-to-door campaigns to reinforce the message of prevention.

The donation by Aditya Birla Group comes amid many other such donations made by Indian corporates as part of CSR spending, which companies are mandated to make, to combat the spread of the disease in the country.

Corporate, government and philanthropic entities, including the Airports Authority of India, Wipro Ltd, Tata Trust and Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), as well as business leaders such as Vedanta’s Anil Agarwal and Anand Mahindra, have pledged financial support for various activities to fight the pandemic. RIL has begun production of face masks, while the Mahindra Group is producing ventilators.

Bhaskar Live | Apr 04, 2020

Aditya Birla Group to donate Rs 500 cr to fight COVID-19

Aditya Birla Group on Friday said that it is committed to contribute Rs 500 crore to various COVID-19 relief measures.

Accordingly, the Group is committed to contribute Rs 400 crores to the PM-CARES Fund, while it has already provided a grant of Rs 50 crore to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for COVID-19 relief measures.

The group has also allocated Rs 50 crore towards supply of one million N95 masks, 280,000 personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as ventilators.

“Commenced production of one million triple layer surgical masks and one lakh overall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry,” the group said in a statement.

India Today | Apr 04, 2020

Covid-19: Aditya Birla Group donates Rs 500 crores in PM-CARES fund

Aditya Birla Group on Friday announced that it has donated Rs 500 crores in the PM-CARES fund to help in the fight against novel coronavirus outbreak in India.

"Aditya Birla Group contributes Rs 500 crores towards Covid-19 relief measures. Multi-pronged response to counter the #COVID2019 pandemic," the company's official Twitter handle said.

The contribution was acknowledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the social media platform. "Thank you

@AdityaBirlaGrp and Shri Kumar Mangalam Birla for contributing to PM-CARES. No stone is being left unturned to fight COVID-19. This contribution will have a positive impact on many Indians. #IndiaFightsCorona," the prime minister said in a post.

The company, in a release, also said that it has issued Rs 50 crores grant to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for Covid relief measures. The company said that it was working with the governments to earmark hospital beds in various cities for Covid-19 patients. It said that the company has production of 1 million triple-layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry.

According to the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) as on 9 pm on Friday, India has a total 2,653 confirmed positive Covid-19 cases. Meanwhile, the death toll in the country reached 71.

Business Today | Apr 03, 2020

Coronavirus outbreak: Aditya Birla Group contributes Rs 500 cr towards relief measures

Aditya Birla Group on Friday said it had contributed Rs 500 crore towards COVID-19 relief measures. While Rs 400 crore was contributed to the PM CARES Fund, Rs 50 crore grant was made to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for relief measures.

Allocation of Rs 50 crore was done towards the supply of 1 million N95 masks, 2,80,000 personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as ventilators, Aditya Birla Group said in a statement.

"Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility" says Rajashree Birla, Chairperson, Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said.

Earlier today, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman donated Rs 1 lakh to PM CARES Fund. Nirmala Sitharaman contributed the fund from her salary to help the country fight COVID-19 pandemic. Nirmala Sitharaman had earlier committed Rs 1 crore from her MPLADS fund as well.

Meanwhile, India is currently under a 21-day lockdown to fight against the spread of coronavirus pandemic. The rapidly spreading coronavirus outbreak has infected more than 2,000 people so far. PM Modi on Thursday asked chief ministers on Thursday to formulate a staggered plan. Earlier today, PM Modi urged the citizens of the country to keep their spirits high amid the lockdown owing to COVID-19. He also asked the people to light candles at the doorsteps of their homes on Sunday to "spread light in these dark times".

Outlook | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 cr for Covid-19 fight

The Aditya Birla Group on Friday committed Rs 500 crore towards Covid-19 relief measures, of which Rs 400 crore will go to the PM-CARES Fund.

This is one of the highest contributions from a corporate till date.

The Kumar Mangalam Birla-led USD 48.3 billion conglomerate will be contributing Rs 400 crore to the PM-CARES Fund, Rs 50 crore to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for Covid-19 relief measures and Rs 50 crore to supply ventilators, masks and protective equipment, a statement said.

A host of leaders from India Inc have been pooling-in resources to fight the pandemic, which has affected over 2,400 people in India and also taken 60 lives already.

"Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility," Rajashree Birla, the chairperson of Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said.

Apart from this, the group will be activating a 100-bed Covid-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in suburban Mumbai, in partnership with the city''s civic body, to be spearheaded by Neerja Birla, the statement said.

It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach.

The Rs 50 crore allocation for equipment will include supply of 1 million N95 masks, 2.80 lakh personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as ventilators, it said.

The statement said the group, which also has interests in textiles, has already commenced production of 1 million triple layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry.

It has also involved community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations and is undertaking awareness activities in 200 locations.

"The Aditya Birla Group recognizes that no contribution can be too large or small, given the enormity of the pandemic. Every effort counts. The Group will continue to extend whatever support is feasible to help fight the pandemic and restore normalcy," it said.

Anybody going through difficulties can call on the toll-free helpline 1800-120-820050 and speak with experienced and trained mental health counsellors from MPower to deal with the challenging times, the statement said.

Outlook | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group to donate Rs 500 cr to fight COVID-19

Aditya Birla Group on Friday said that it is committed to contribute Rs 500 crore to various COVID-19 relief measures.

The group has also allocated Rs 50 crore towards supply of one million N95 masks, 280,000 personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as ventilators.

"Commenced production of one million triple layer surgical masks and one lakh overall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry," the group said in a statement.

New Kerala | Apr 03, 2020

More Mumbai companies donate towards Covid-19 relief

The Aditya Birla Group announced Rs 500 crore, including Rs 400 crore to the PM Cares Fund and another Rs 100 crore to various other initiatives for fighting Covid-19 pandemic.

These would include a Rs 50 crore grant to the FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence, and Rs 50 crore to procure ventilators, one million N-95 masks and 280,000 personal protection equipment.

The Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development Chairperson Rajashree Birla said other initiatives include setting up a 100-bed facility at Seven Hills Hospital in collaboration with the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation, activating 200 beds at hospitals in Pune, Solapur, Ujjain, Hazaribagh, Rayagada and Kharach.

The United Phosphorus Ltd has donated Rs 75 crore to the PM Cares Fund and launched other initiatives to fight the pandemic, said its CEO Jai Shroff.

"We are continuously providing PPEs for the healthcare workers, kept on stand by our educational institutions in Vapi, Gujarat, to operate as 'quarantine centres' when required, and deployed 200 machines to spray disinfectants at public places to contain coronavirus," Shroff said.

The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council Chairman Pramod Agrawal announced Rs 21 crore to the PM Cares Fund, in addition to Rs 50 crore committed last month towards Covid-19 initiatives.

Yahoo News | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 cr for Covid-19 fight

The Aditya Birla Group on Friday committed Rs 500 crore towards Covid-19 relief measures, of which Rs 400 crore will go to the PM-CARES Fund.

This is one of the highest contributions from a corporate till date. The Kumar Mangalam Birla-led USD 48.3 billion conglomerate will be contributing Rs 400 crore to the PM-CARES Fund, Rs 50 crore to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for Covid-19 relief measures and Rs 50 crore to supply ventilators, masks and protective equipment, a statement said.

A host of leaders from India Inc have been pooling-in resources to fight the pandemic, which has affected over 2,400 people in India and also taken 60 lives already. 'Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility,' Rajashree Birla, the chairperson of Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said.

Apart from this, the group will be activating a 100-bed Covid-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in suburban Mumbai, in partnership with the city's civic body, to be spearheaded by Neerja Birla, the statement said.

It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach.

The Rs 50 crore allocation for equipment will include supply of 1 million N95 masks, 2.80 lakh personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as ventilators, it said. The statement said the group, which also has interests in textiles, has already commenced production of 1 million triple layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry.

It has also involved community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations and is undertaking awareness activities in 200 locations.

'The Aditya Birla Group recognizes that no contribution can be too large or small, given the enormity of the pandemic. Every effort counts. The Group will continue to extend whatever support is feasible to help fight the pandemic and restore normalcy,' it said. Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Neerja Birla-headed initiative for mental health, MPower, announced a round-the-clock helpline in partnership with the Maharashtra government and the financial capital's civic body to help people.

Orissa Diary | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group contributes Rs. 500 crores towards Covid-19 relief measures; Rs. 400 cr. contribution to PM- CARES Fund

For more than a century, the Aditya Birla Group has been deeply engaged in community work. The Covid-19 pandemic presents an unprecedented challenge to the nation. This crisis calls for an even stronger and concerted action from corporate citizens to join the national effort and help the Government in the fight against the pandemic.

“Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility” says Mrs. Rajashree Birla, Chairperson- Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development

In this light, the Aditya Birla Group has undertaken the following initiatives:

Contribution of Rs. 400 crores to the PM- CARES Fund.

Rs.50 cr grant to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for Covid relief measures.

To activate a 100-bed Covid-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in Mumbai, in partnership with BMC. This initiative is being spearheaded by Mrs. Neerja Birla.

Earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 Patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach.

Allocated Rs.50 cr towards supply of 1 million N95 masks, 280000 personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as ventilators.

Commenced production of 1 million triple layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry.

Involved community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations.

Continuous and pro-active engagement with local communities and other stakeholders. This includes awareness camps across 200 locations and door to door campaign to reinforce prevention message as well as social distancing.

The Aditya Birla Group recognizes that no contribution can be too large or small, given the enormity of the pandemic. Every effort counts. The Group will continue to extend whatever support is feasible to help fight the pandemic and restore normalcy.

Devdiscourse | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 cr for Covid-19 fight

The Aditya Birla Group on Friday committed Rs 500 crore towards Covid-19 relief measures, of which Rs 400 crore will go to the PM-CARES Fund. This is one of the highest contributions from a corporate till date. The Kumar Mangalam Birla-led USD 48.3 billion conglomerate will be contributing Rs 400 crore to the PM-CARES Fund, Rs 50 crore to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for Covid-19 relief measures and Rs 50 crore to supply ventilators, masks and protective equipment, a statement said. A host of leaders from India Inc have been pooling-in resources to fight the pandemic, which has affected over 2,400 people in India and also taken 60 lives already. "Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility," Rajashree Birla, the chairperson of Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said. Apart from this, the group will be activating a 100-bed Covid-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in suburban Mumbai, in partnership with the city's civic body, to be spearheaded by Neerja Birla, the statement said. It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach. The Rs 50 crore allocation for equipment will include supply of 1 million N95 masks, 2.80 lakh personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as ventilators, it said. The statement said the group, which also has interests in textiles, has already commenced production of 1 million triple layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry. It has also involved community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations and is undertaking awareness activities in 200 locations. "The Aditya Birla Group recognizes that no contribution can be too large or small, given the enormity of the pandemic. Every effort counts. The Group will continue to extend whatever support is feasible to help fight the pandemic and restore normalcy," it said. Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Neerja Birla-headed initiative for mental health, MPower, announced a round-the-clock helpline in partnership with the Maharashtra government and the financial capital's civic body to help people

newsd | Apr 03, 2020

More Mumbai cos. donate towards Covid-19 relief

Several Mumbai companies have donated towards the cause of Covid-19 relief works on Friday.

The Aditya Birla Group announced Rs 500 crore, including Rs 400 crore to the PM Cares Fund and another Rs 100 crore to various other initiatives for fighting Covid-19 pandemic.

These would include a Rs 50 crore grant to the FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence, and Rs 50 crore to procure ventilators, one million N-95 masks and 280,000 personal protection equipment.

The Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development Chairperson Rajashree Birla said other initiatives include setting up a 100-bed facility at Seven Hills Hospital in collaboration with the Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation, activating 200 beds at hospitals in Pune, Solapur, Ujjain, Hazaribagh, Rayagada and Kharach.

The United Phosphorus Ltd has donated Rs 75 crore to the PM Cares Fund and launched other initiatives to fight the pandemic, said its CEO Jai Shroff.

“We are continuously providing PPEs for the healthcare workers, kept on stand by our educational institutions in Vapi, Gujarat, to operate as ‘quarantine centres’ when required, and deployed 200 machines to spray disinfectants at public places to contain coronavirus,” Shroff said.

The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council Chairman Pramod Agrawal announced Rs 21 crore to the PM Cares Fund, in addition to Rs 50 crore committed last month towards Covid-19 initiatives.

Daiji World | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group to donate Rs 500 cr to fight COVID-19

Aditya Birla Group on Friday said that it is committed to contribute Rs 500 crore to various COVID-19 relief measures.

The group has also allocated Rs 50 crore towards supply of one million N95 masks, 280,000 personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as ventilators.

"Commenced production of one million triple layer surgical masks and one lakh overall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry," the group said in a statement.

ET Now News | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 crore combat Covid-19 crisis

A host of leaders from India Inc have been pooling-in resources to fight the pandemic, which has affected over 2,400 people in India and also taken 60 lives already. "Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility," Rajashree Birla, the chairperson of Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said.

It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach. The Rs 50 crore allocation for equipment will include a supply of 1 million N95 masks, 2.80 lakh personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as ventilators, it said.

The statement said the group, which also has interests in textiles, has already commenced production of 1 million triple-layer surgical masks and 1 lakh coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry.

It has also involved community and self-help groups in-home production of lakhs of masks across several locations and is undertaking awareness activities in 200 locations.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Neerja Birla-headed initiative for mental health, MPower, announced a round-the-clock helpline in partnership with the Maharashtra government and the financial capital's civic body to help people. Anybody going through difficulties can call on the toll-free helpline 1800-120-820050 and speak with experienced and trained mental health counsellors from MPower to deal with the challenging times, the statement said.

The Economic Times | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla group contributes Rs 500 crore to fight Covid-19 pandemic

The Aditya Birla Group pledged a sum of Rs 500 crore towards the nation’s effort to combat the Covid-19 pandemic with plans of making a donation to the PM-Cares fund and supplying ventilators and masks.

Rs 400 crore were earmarked for donation to the PM-Cares fund while Rs 50 crore will be granted to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence, according to a press statement released on Friday.

To supply one million N95 masks and 280,000 personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as ventilators, Rs 50 crore were allocated. The group had already commenced the production of one million triple layer surgical masks and 100,000 coverall garments with the support of the Textiles Ministry.

“Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance, and community responsibility” said Rajashree Birla, chairperson at Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development.

The plan also included setting up a 100-bed Covid-19 facility at the Seven Hills Hospital in Mumbai in partnership with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. This initiative was being overseen by Neerja Birla.

Moreover, a cumulative capacity of about 200 beds was being set up Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur, and Kharach, as per the statement.

Business Standard | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 cr for Covid-19 fight

The Aditya Birla Group on Friday committed Rs 500 crore towards Covid-19 relief measures, of which Rs 400 crore will go to the PM-CARES Fund.

This is one of the highest contributions from a corporate till date.

A host of leaders from India Inc have been pooling-in resources to fight the pandemic, which has affected over 2,400 people in India and also taken 60 lives already.

"Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility," Rajashree Birla, the chairperson of Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development, said.

It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach.

The Rs 50 crore allocation for equipment will include supply of 1 million N95 masks, 2.80 lakh personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as ventilators, it said.

It has also involved community and self-help groups in home production of lakhs of masks across several locations and is undertaking awareness activities in 200 locations.

Anybody going through difficulties can call on the toll-free helpline 1800-120-820050 and speak with experienced and trained mental health counsellors from MP ower to deal with the challenging times, the statement said.

The Hindu Business Line | Apr 03, 2020

Aditya Birla Group commits Rs 500 crore to combat Covid-19

Aditya Birla Group has announced Rs 500 crore fund to support initiatives against the coronavirus epidemic. This includes Rs 400 crore to the PM- CARES Fund and 50 cr grant to FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence for Covid relief measures.

“Given the severity of the disruption, there is a compelling need for a multi-pronged response that includes financial and material support, healthcare assistance and community responsibility” said Rajashree Birla, Chairperson- Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and Rural Development

Other initiatives include activating a 100-bed Covid-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in Mumbai, in partnership with BMC. This initiative is being spearheaded by Neerja Birla. It has also earmarked more than 200 beds for Covid-19 patients across locations including Ujjain, Pune, Hazaribagh, Rayagada, Solapur and Kharach.

Another Rs.50 crore will be allocated towards supply of 1 million N95 masks, 280000 personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as ventilators.

Devdiscourse | Oct 11, 2019

Govt to set up National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation near Bhopal

Dr. Prabodh Seth, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India today said that the government has decided to set up a National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation (NIMHR) near Bhopal. The cost of the project would be Rs 179.54 crore in the first three years.

Speaking at the conference on 'Re-thinking Mental Health' organized by FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence, Dr. Seth highlighted that the objectives of the NIMHR include providing rehabilitation services to people with mental illness, capacity development in the area of mental health rehabilitation, policy-framing and advanced research in mental health rehabilitation.

"Given the huge gulf in demand and supply, we are thinking of developing in-service training programs for persons employed in government organizations who can get effective training and be effective in providing basic rehabilitation services," said Dr. Seth.

Dr. Nimesh Desai, Director, Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), said, "Mental health is nowhere near the central agenda of the society. It is still a storm in a teacup. Scientific figures from the National Institute of Health put that rate at 49%."

The conference included panel discussions on subjects such as 'Taking Mental Health to the General Public', 'Addressing Stigma and Community Participation in Mental Healthcare', 'Telling Our Stories: Lived Experience and the Importance of Ethical Reporting', 'Access to Mental Health Support at the Workplace: Offline and Online Professional Support' and 'It's Alright Not To Feel okay: Young and Adolescents'.

krishijagran.com | Aug 28, 2019

Development in Agriculture and Food Processing Sectors by Private Sector

FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence together with Walmart.org organized a summit on ‘Strengthening Agri Systems: Road to supporting smallholder farmers and boosting incomes’.  

The summit included leaders from the government, trade organizations, nonprofits, suppliers, retailers and others who are leading initiatives throughout all areas of the agriculture supply chain from farm to fork and engaged key stakeholders across the sector to address the barriers faced by smallholder farmers and farmer producer organizations (FPOs).   

The event was inaugurated by Mr Rameswar Teli, Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Government of India. Delivering the event's keynote address Mr Teli said, “I laud Walmart for its Rs 180 crore ($25 million) commitment towards strengthening the Indian farm sector. The private sector is playing a strong role in aiding development in the agriculture and food processing sectors. These will play a major role in the Government's vision of doubling farmer incomes by 2022."  

Mr Vivek Aggarwal, Joint Secretary (Crops & IT) & CEO-PM KISAN, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India said, “All stakeholders, across the private and public sectors, must work together to enable better prices for farmers and help them access markets across India. This will necessitate the intervention of private sector players and for India’s FPO movement to prioritize remunerative prices for the farming community.” 

Deepening its commitment to improve farmers’ livelihood in India, the Walmart Foundation today announced $4.8 million (about Rs 34 crore) in grants to Digital Green and TechnoServe to enable programs that help smallholder farmers have access to agriculture technology, training on sustainable farmer methods, enhanced access to formal markets, and skill and capacity building for farmer producer organizations (FPOs). 

newKerala.com | Aug 28, 2019

Centre to push investment by food processing units in J&K

Food processing companies are yet to respond to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal and commit investment in Jammu and Kashmir remains under partial lock-down following the Centre's decision to strip it of its special status by nullifying the Constitution's Article 370.

Local entrepreneurs from the state are, however, excited about new business opportunity in the sector.

Minister of State for Food Processing Rameswar Teli on Tuesday said that investors are yet to approach him to put up their units in the hill state.

"No outsiders'.. but the local entrepreneurs are in talks to invest in the area" the Minister told reporters on the sidelines of an Walmart-FICCI event.

He said that his Ministry would tweak policies to ensure that the state gets new investment.

After normalcy returns to the state, the Minister said, a road-show would be organised to make locals aware of the central schemes for farmers.

Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Vivek Aggarwal who was also present at the event said that farmers don't have negotiating power because the farmer has no choice but to sell his produce to the nearest market or the nearest vendors.

"This gap needs to be filled by private players," Aggarwal said.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, Walmart Foundation announced $4.8 million or Rs 34 crores in grants to Digital Green and TechnoServe to enable programs that help small farmers have access to agriculture technology, training on sustainable farmer methods and enhanced access to formal markets among others.

"Today's grant announcement builds upon the Walmart Foundation's efforts to increase economic opportunity for small-holder farmers and their families while promoting sustainable farming practices and the empowerment and inclusion of women," said Kathleen McLaughlin, Walmart Foundation President and EVP, Chief Sustainability Officer of Walmart.

Financial Express | Aug 27, 2019

How MSMEs may create more jobs: FICCI suggests govt ways to grow small businesses

FICCI's economic outlook survey, which pegged India’s potential GDP growth rate for FY20 settling at the higher end at about 7.5 per cent, stressed on strengthening MSMEs to be among the key areas that require urgent attention.

In order to boost job creation in India’s micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector — the second largest employer in India after agriculture, there is a need to adopt a cluster development approach by the government, according to economists. “Smaller enterprises working in a cluster will develop economies of scale and become cost-efficient, thereby improving their productivity and competitiveness,” industry body FICCI said in its latest economic outlook survey among economists, since “a majority of employment opportunities are created by SME.”

The survey, which pegged India’s potential GDP growth rate for FY20 settling at the higher end at about 7.5 per cent, stressed on strengthening MSMEs to be among the key areas that require urgent attention. The other areas of focus, according to surveyed economists, are boosting agriculture, undertaking factor market reforms, and improving avenues for infrastructure financing.

Developing clusters gain significance as MSMEs are expected to generate around 1 crore jobs in the coming four-five years, as per a report by Nomura Research Institute. Moreover, strengthening MSMEs in clusters of artificial Jewellery, sports goods, scientific instruments, metal utensils, machine equipment like textile machinery, electric fans, rubber, plastic, leather & related products, bicycle parts and auto components, textile, wood, paper, food, minerals etc. can create an additional 75 lakh – 1 crore jobs in the next four-five years through partial substitution of imports.

Economists highlighted the need for the government to ensure “strong and stable policies” to help Indian SMEs integrate with global value chains. The industry body had earlier suggested setting up of “an exclusive Export Facilitation Centre for MSMEs” to boost their exports. Also, economists sought expansion of technology and incubation centres for MSMEs across India.

Further, to boost employment in the manufacturing and services sector, economists identified easing or reducing the cost of doing business and regulatory reforms for businesses along with labour reforms and sector-specific special packages.

Employment generation by MSMEs over the past four years grew 13.9 per cent, according to a CII survey, wherein micro-businesses created the highest number of jobs are likely to continue to be on top in the next three years. The net job additions in four years among more than 1 lakh MSMEs stood at 3,32,394 — a 3.3 per cent increase per annum in these four years.

Outlook | Aug 27, 2019

Centre to push investment by food processing units in J&K

Food processing companies are yet to respond to Prime Minister Narendra Modi''s appeal and commit investment in Jammu and Kashmir remains under partial lock-down following the Centre''s decision to strip it of its special status by nullifying the Constitution''s Article 370.

Local entrepreneurs from the state are, however, excited about new business opportunity in the sector.

Minister of State for Food Processing Rameswar Teli on Tuesday said that investors are yet to approach him to put up their units in the hill state.

"''No outsiders''.. but the local entrepreneurs are in talks to invest in the area" the Minister told reporters on the sidelines of an Walmart-FICCI event.

He said that his Ministry would tweak policies to ensure that the state gets new investment.

After normalcy returns to the state, the Minister said, a road-show would be organised to make locals aware of the central schemes for farmers.

Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Vivek Aggarwal who was also present at the event said that farmers don''t have negotiating power because the farmer has no choice but to sell his produce to the nearest market or the nearest vendors.

"This gap needs to be filled by private players," Aggarwal said.

"Today''s grant announcement builds upon the Walmart Foundation''s efforts to increase economic opportunity for small-holder farmers and their families while promoting sustainable farming practices and the empowerment and inclusion of women," said Kathleen McLaughlin, Walmart Foundation President and EVP, Chief Sustainability Officer of Walmart.

The News Minute | Aug 27, 2019

Walmart Foundation announces two new grants of $4.8 mn for smallholder farmers in India

Deepening its commitment to improving farmer livelihoods in India, the Walmart Foundation on Tuesday announced $4.8 million (approximately Rs. 34 crore) in grants to Digital Green and TechnoServe to enable programs that help smallholder farmers have access to agriculture technology, training on sustainable farmer methods, enhanced access to formal markets, and skill and capacity building for farmer producer organisations (FPOs).

These grants are a part of the Walmart Foundation’s commitment made in September 2018 to contribute $25 million (approximately Rs. 180 crore) over the next five years to improve farmer livelihoods in India. Separate from this commitment, Walmart India also announced it would grow its direct sourcing from farmers to 25 per cent of produce sold in its Cash & Carry stores by 2023.

With today’s announcement, the Walmart Foundation has contributed over $10 million (approximately Rs. 71 crore) toward its $25 million goal. These grants are expected to create a meaningful impact to more than 81,000 farmers, including more than 29,030 women farmers (many of whom are organised into FPOs) in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh.

Walmart.org, through the combined philanthropic efforts of both Walmart and the Walmart Foundation, recognises the challenges smallholder farmers face in sustainably growing their production and in forging linkages to finance, infrastructure and markets. As such, Walmart.org is working to address systemic barriers that prevent smallholder farmers and FPOs in India, Mexico and Central America from increasing their access to markets and improving their livelihoods as well as creating opportunity for entrepreneurship in South Africa.

“Today’s grant announcement builds upon the Walmart Foundation’s efforts to increase economic opportunity for smallholder farmers and their families while promoting sustainable farming practices and the empowerment and inclusion of women,” said Kathleen McLaughlin, Walmart Foundation President and EVP, Chief Sustainability Officer of Walmart. “The work being accomplished by our grantees and their partners is inspiring. We hope the Walmart Foundation’s commitment, alongside the work of Walmart and Walmart India’s direct farm sourcing teams, will help drive real momentum in sustainable agriculture development in India and we encourage others to join us in our commitment.”

The Walmart Foundation’s grant of $1.3 million (approximately Rs. 9 crore) to the Digital Green will help develop ‘Farmstack’, a digital data platform designed to provide better services for and enhance the livelihoods of Andhra Pradesh farmers, specifically targeting lower-income communities in farmer producer organisations. "The Walmart Foundation's support furthers our mission of using digital tools to amplify the impact for smallholder farmers, who are the backbone of India's agri-economy. We're grateful for the opportunity to work with smallholder farmers in improving their own livelihoods and those of others in their community, in a manner that’s nutrition-sensitive, climate-resilient, and inclusive," Vinay Kumar, Managing Director, Asia, Digital Green said.

TechnoServe will use its $3.5 million grant (approximately Rs 25.2 crore) to help develop and train up to 20 FPOs and facilitate market linkages by setting up procurement and aggregation systems. The program will also focus on training women smallholders to help expand their market options, as well as extend support to smallholder farmers on sustainable agriculture practices. With this funding, TechnoServe aims to boost incomes for 25,000 farmers (50% of whom will be women).

"Increasing farmer incomes is a powerful call to action. Sustainable agricultural practices, market linkages, and effective management at the FPO level can boost smallholder farmers’ inclusion, incomes, and livelihoods across India. With the support of the Walmart Foundation, we look forward to building on our decade-long experience creating lasting change in the country’s agricultural sector,” said William Warshauer, CEO of TechnoServe.

Today’s announcements were made at the ‘Strengthening Agri Systems: Road to supporting smallholder farmers and boosting incomes’ Summit,’ which was jointly organised by Walmart.org and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in New Delhi. The summit includes leaders in the government, trade organisations, nonprofits, suppliers, retailers and others who are leading initiatives throughout all areas of the agriculture supply chain, from farm to fork, and aims to help engage key stakeholders across the sector to address the barriers faced by smallholder farmers and farmer producer organisations (FPOs).

The event was inaugurated by Rameswar Teli, Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Government of India.

Delivering the event's keynote address, Teli said, “I laud Walmart for its Rs. 180 crore ($25 million) commitment towards strengthening the Indian farm sector. The private sector is playing a strong role in aiding development in the agriculture and food processing sectors. These will play a major role in the Government's vision of doubling farmer incomes by 2022."

The event also included participation by senior leadership from Walmart India and Flipkart Group.

sify finance | Aug 27, 2019

Centre to push investment by food processing units in J&K

Local entrepreneurs from the state are, however, excited about new business opportunity in the sector.

Minister of State for Food Processing Rameswar Teli on Tuesday said that investors are yet to approach him to put up their units in the hill state.

"No outsiders'.. but the local entrepreneurs are in talks to invest in the area" the Minister told reporters on the sidelines of an Walmart-FICCI event.

He said that his Ministry would tweak policies to ensure that the state gets new investment.

After normalcy returns to the state, the Minister said, a road-show would be organised to make locals aware of the central schemes for farmers.

"This gap needs to be filled by private players," Aggarwal said.

Webindia123 | Aug 27, 2019

Centre to push investment by food processing units in J&K

Local entrepreneurs from the state are, however, excited about new business opportunity in the sector.

Minister of State for Food Processing Rameswar Teli on Tuesday said that investors are yet to approach him to put up their units in the hill state.

"'No outsiders'.. but the local entrepreneurs are in talks to invest in the area" the Minister told reporters on the sidelines of an Walmart-FICCI event.

He said that his Ministry would tweak policies to ensure that the state gets new investment.

After normalcy returns to the state, the Minister said, a road-show would be organised to make locals aware of the central schemes for farmers.

"This gap needs to be filled by private players," Aggarwal said.

The Weekend Leader | Aug 27, 2019

Centre to push investment by food processing units in J&K

Local entrepreneurs from the state are, however, excited about new business opportunity in the sector.

Minister of State for Food Processing Rameswar Teli on Tuesday said that investors are yet to approach him to put up their units in the hill state.

"'No outsiders'.. but the local entrepreneurs are in talks to invest in the area" the Minister told reporters on the sidelines of an Walmart-FICCI event.

He said that his Ministry would tweak policies to ensure that the state gets new investment.

After normalcy returns to the state, the Minister said, a road-show would be organised to make locals aware of the central schemes for farmers.

"This gap needs to be filled by private players," Aggarwal said.

Business Standard | Aug 08, 2019

No jail for CSR violation: FM Nirmala Sitharaman to business leaders

There will be no enforcement of the penal provisions, including jail terms, recently inserted in the Companies Act for businesses not meeting the corporate social responsibility (CSR) obligation, said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

She reportedly said so to delegations from business chambers at a meeting in her ministry.

The representatives also asked for a Rs 1-trillion ‘quick fix’ stimulus to revive demand and consumption, saying economic growth has slipped to its lowest under the Narendra Modi administration.

Present were members from the Confederation of Indian Industry, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India and the Cellular Operators Association of India.

“The penal provisions for CSR were discussed. It was assured to us that jail term and punitive actions will not be taken,” Sajjan Jindal, chairman of JSW Group, told reporters after the meeting.

The legal changes on CSR spending now allow fines for both the defaulting company in question and officers deemed responsible of Rs 50,000 to Rs 25 lakh, with officers also liable for imprisonment up to three years.

Assocham president B K Goenka said his group had sought a stimulus package to initiate an investment cycle, amid a slowing global and domestic market. “The economy requires a critical intervention. We have suggested a package of over Rs 1 trillion,” he said.

“The minister and all the officials patiently heard what the industry had to say. They were there for three hours. The main issue was raised by us was liquidity in the system. It's not that there is lack of liquidity in banks but lending is not taking place. There are stresses as far as NBFCs (non-bank finance companies) are concerned, and because of NBFCs, what's happening in the other industries, whether automobiles, home loans and medium and small scale industries,” said Ajay Piramal of Piramal Enterprises.

The business groups were unanimous that banks had not passed on the benefits of multiple lending rate cuts by the Reserve Bank (RBI) to consumers. “Compared to a cumulative 75 basis points cut in the repo rate (at which RBI lends to banks), there has been only a 10 bps cut in the median marginal cost of lending rate (MCLR) of public sector banks for a one-year tenor over the period February-June 2019. This weak and asymmetric monetary transmission process has constrained the economic recovery process by impeding the fall in lending rates which could stoke consumption demand,” said CII Vice-President T V Narendran.

CII also wants a reduction in small savings rates, in line with market rates. Not doing so, it says, will shut down efforts by public sector banks to reduce deposit rates and, hence, easing of lending rates.

With a liquidity crunch in force across sectors, industry groups said, small and medium enterprises remain the most vulnerable. “While it's encouraging that RBI has reduced rates by a cumulative 110 bps, industry is looking forward to some more rate reduction, as real interest rates are still very high,” said FICCI President Sandip Somany.

While demand in the economy has dried over months, rates of domestic investment have slid further.

The Hindu Business Line | Aug 08, 2019

India Inc seeks Rs 1 lakh cr stimulus package to kick-start investment cycle, revive growth

The Finance Minister and ministry officials met captains of the industry to deliberate upon the issues about the economy and sagging industrial growth.

India Inc on Thursday demanded a stimulus package of over Rs 1 lakh crore to kick-start investment cycle and revive the economy which is showing signs of a slowdown. Industry leaders also said that the government has assured them to take action soon to boost the economic growth.

In a meeting with top industry leaders, called by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss ways to revive the growth, Assocham President B K Goenka said that amid the current slowdown in global and domestic market, there is a need to have quick-fix solutions.

Sagging industrial growth

“The economy requires a critical intervention by introducing a stimulus package. We have suggested for a package of over Rs one lakh crore,” he said. After the three-hour long meeting, India Inc also said the government has assured to take action soon to revive the industry and push economic growth.

Nirmala Sitharaman and ministry officials met captains of the industry to deliberate upon the issues about the economy and sagging industrial growth.

JSW Group Chairman Sajjan Jindal said: “It was decided that the government is going to take action very soon to revive the industry and it is a matter of sentiments. We got positive feedback from the finance minister”. The Minister in clear terms gave assurance that “very soon” solution would be found, he said, adding the industry is suffering from issues in sectors like steel, NBFC, and automobile.

Piramal Enterprises Chairman Ajay Piramal said that the industry raised several matters such as reluctance of banks to lend to the industry. “It is not that there was a lack of liquidity in the banks, but lending was not taking place. There is stress on the economy as far as NBFC sector was concerned,” he told reporters after the meeting. He added that the NBFC issue is impacting sectors like auto, home loan, and MSME. “I am told that there will be action soon. So, we will wait for that,” he said.

CSR spending

It was also assured by the government in the meeting that punitive penal provisions concerning non-compliance with CSR spending norms under the companies law would not be pursued. Piramal said that the industry demanded that oversight on CSR spending should not result in any imprisonment.

Further Vice-President CII T V Narendran said that the government sought views on ways to further stimulate the country’s economic growth. “Across the board, we discussed the key issues,” he said adding slowdown in the auto industry would have an implication on the steel sector.

Sandip Somany, President, FICCI, said transmission of cut in interest rate to consumers by banks is a big issue. “Banks must be encouraged to pass on the benefits of rate reduction to consumers and borrowers. We are hopeful of further rate cut. It is encouraging that the RBI has reduced rates by cumulative 110 basis points,” he said.

SME Times | Aug 06, 2019

'New CSR amendment will only encourage tick -box compliance'

Industry body FICCI has viewed that the new recent CSR amendment will only encourage tick -box compliance.

In an press statement FICCI said CSR is embedded in the ethos of Indian corporate sector and after introduction of CSR provision in the Companies Act 2013, bulk of the companies have been meaningfully discharging their obligation to society.

However, the new requirement of transferring unspent CSR amounts to Govt-specified funds and introduction of penalties for non-compliance vitiates the very reason for which corporate sector was entrusted with this obligation i.e. to engage with its ecosystem and help nurture it.

"CSR is not just about spending but making an impact and finding sustainable solutions. The recent amendment will only encourage tick -box compliance.”

FICCI added that it is also not aligned with the Govt’s recent measures to decriminalise non-compliance.

“Further, it has been a long-standing industry demand to make CSR expenditure tax-deductible. This has become even more relevant now given that the CSR obligation has become mandatory and therefore needs to be treated like any other business expenditure," said FICCI President Sandip Somany.

The CSR Journal | Aug 05, 2019

CSR: CII to approach govt on penal provisions; Ficci says changes to encourage tick-box compliance

Amid concerns in various quarters, industry body CII plans to approach the government seeking reconsideration of penal provisions with respect to non-compliance with CSR spending norms under the companies law. Industry grouping FICCI on Friday said the changes would only encourage tick-box compliance. With the latest amendments to the companies law, there would be penal action for non-compliance besides provision for carrying forward unspent amount with respect to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Rumjhum Chatterjee, co-chair of CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) CSR Committee, on Friday said the penal action provision is a harsh step, adding that at this time, there is a requirement to work with the industry and help them in kind of complying with regulatory framework rather than announce penal action.

“We are going to give a representation… we will request the government to reconsider the penal provision,” she told PTI. In case of non-compliance with CSR spending requirement, the company could face a fine of at least INR 50,000 and the quantum could go up to INR 25 lakh.

Besides, every officer of such company who is in default shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine which shall not be less than INR 50,000 but which may extend to INR 5 lakh, or with both, as per the amended Act.

According to Chatterjee, there are many small and medium industries that do not have the capacity to implement CSR projects on their own and they need hand holding, capacity building and incentivisation, among others. The penal provision has come like a harsh step and “we hope the government will reconsider it”, she said.

“The focus seems to be more on spending the money, irrespective of where it is spent and the outcomes of that. That worries us a lot. The thing is on spending the money and not so much on the social outcome for which it was mandated,” Chatterjee noted. Referring to new requirement of transferring unspent CSR amounts to government-specified funds and introduction of penalties for non-compliance, FICCI President Sandip Somany said it would only encourage tick-box compliance. “CSR is not just about spending but making an impact and finding sustainable solutions. The recent amendment will only encourage tick-box compliance. “It is also not aligned with the government’s recent measures to decriminalise non-compliance,” he said in a statement.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, certain class of profitable entities are required to shell out at least two per cent of their three-year annual average net profit towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities in a particular fiscal. In 2017-18, as many as 3,117 companies spent Rs 8,365.35 crore towards CSR activities, as per data up to October 20, 2018. The CSR provisions came into force from April 1, 2014. Sai Venkateshwaran, Partner and Head, CFO Advisory at KPMG in India, said latest amendments to the companies law essentially make a voluntary social initiative a mandatory spend under law, akin to a social commitment levy.

“As a concept, CSR is meant to be voluntary and making it mandatory itself is a big change. However, the recent amendments have taken an unexpected turn with regards to penal provisions, for non-compliance with CSR requirements,” he said. About the amendments related to CSR, Madhu Sudan Kankani, Partner at Deloitte India, said there was enough encouragement to nudge companies to spend that much money.

“In my view a lot of companies have taken it in a positive way to identify the projects… in some ways, it becomes mandatory but I think then spending that money was considered mandatory except that there was no penal provision…,” he noted. Chatterjee also said the CSR is now like a mandatory spend. “There are three countries where we have found that there are mandatory provisions like this. Indonesia, Mauritius and Nepal. Whether penal provisions also apply there, we don’t know…,” she added.

Noting that it has been a long-standing industry demand to make CSR expenditure tax-deductible, Somany said since it is given that the CSR obligation has become mandatory, the amount needs to be treated like any other business expenditure. Piloting the bill to amend companies law in Rajya Sabha on July 30, Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that any amount, remaining unutilised in such CSR account, shall thereafter be transferred to any fund specified in Schedule VII.

The schedule pertains to CSR. “Section 135 is also to be amended to provide for specific penal provisions in case of non-compliance. I mentioned earlier, that it was easy for the people to interpret, saying either we comply with it or else we will give an explanation and get away with it.

“Now, that is not happening because Section 135 is also being amended to provide for a specific penal provision in case of non-compliance and authorise the central government, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, to give directions to the companies or any class of them for ensuring compliance with the provisions of the CSR,” she had said.

The Week | Aug 03, 2019

Corporate India irked at new CSR rules

India Inc is irked at the central government's move to stiffen provisions related to corporate social responsibility (CSR) by big companies. The government had, on Tuesday, passed in Parliament amendments to the Companies Act, which envisages stricter penalties, including fines and jail terms, to companies not fulfilling their CSR requirements.

“The...amendment will only encourage tick box compliance,” said Sandip Somany, president of FICCI, in a sharply worded statement.

“It is also not aligned with the government's recent measures to decriminalise non-compliance,” argues Somany, who also pointed out that the industry's long-standing demand to make CSR expenditure tax deductible has not been met, even while provisions have been made stringent.

Originally, companies with a net worth of Rs 500 crore or more, turnover of Rs 1,000 crore or more, or net profit of Rs 5 crore or more were required to spend 2 per cent of their average profit of the previous three years on CSR activities every year. Though mandated by the Companies Act, 2013, this was laxly followed, with many companies routing the money into their own foundations or trusts, or into projects related to their own company. There was also a tendency for companies to vaguely refer to projects being done as part of CSR in their annual reports at locations far from their physical address.

“It was easy for people to interpret that either we comply or we give an explanation and get away it,” pointed out finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. “Now that (will not) happen because Companies Act is being amended to provide specific penal provision in case of non-compliance.”

The newly-passed amendments has provisions to send company officials to jail for up to three years for non-compliance of its CSR. Companies violating the rules will face a penalty from Rs 50,000 all the way up to Rs 25 lakh.

While originally, companies only had to detail their CSR policy and set up a committee for the same, henceforth, they will have to give details about how the CSR money has been spent, with a three-year window to adhere to the new provisions. There are also reports that the government is also planning an exchange site of sorts, which will present companies with options of local initiatives they could fund as part of CSR.

United News of India | Aug 02, 2019

New norms on CSR penalty will only allow tick box compliance: FICCI

Reacting to the penal provisions with respect to non-compliance with CSR spending norms under the companies law, business chamber FICCI on Friday said the new norms will only encourage 'tick-box compliance'.

“The CSR is not just about spending but making an impact and finding sustainable solutions. The recent amendment will only encourage tick -box compliance," Sandip Somany, President, FICCI said in a statement here.

"It is also not aligned with the Government's recent measures to de-criminalise non-compliance. Further, it has been a long-standing industry demand to make CSR expenditure tax-deductible," he said.

"This has become even more relevant now given that the CSR obligation has become mandatory and therefore needs to be treated like any other business expenditure,” he said.

Financial Express | Aug 02, 2019

CSR: CII to approach govt on penal provisions; FICCI says changes to encourage tick-box compliance

“We are going to give a representation… we will request the government to reconsider the penal provision,” she told PTI. In case of non-compliance with CSR spending requirement, the company could face a fine of at least Rs 50,000 and the quantum could go up to Rs 25 lakh.

Besides, every officer of such company who is in default shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years or with fine which shall not be less than Rs 50,000 but which may extend to Rs 5 lakh, or with both, as per the amended Act.

Outlook | Aug 02, 2019

CSR: CII to approach govt on penal provisions; FICCI says changes to encourage tick-box compliance

Industry grouping FICCI on Friday said the changes would only encourage tick-box compliance.

With the latest amendments to the companies law, there would be penal action for non-compliance besides provision for carrying forward unspent amount with respect to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

"We are going to give a representation... we will request the government to reconsider the penal provision," she told .

In case of non-compliance with CSR spending requirement, the company could face a fine of at least Rs 50,000 and the quantum could go up to Rs 25 lakh.

The penal provision has come like a harsh step and "we hope the government will reconsider it", she said.

"The focus seems to be more on spending the money, irrespective of where it is spent and the outcomes of that. That worries us a lot. The thing is on spending the money and not so much on the social outcome for which it was mandated," Chatterjee noted.

Referring to new requirement of transferring unspent CSR amounts to government-specified funds and introduction of penalties for non-compliance, FICCI President Sandip Somany said it would only encourage tick-box compliance.

"CSR is not just about spending but making an impact and finding sustainable solutions. The recent amendment will only encourage tick-box compliance.

"It is also not aligned with the government''s recent measures to decriminalise non-compliance," he said in a statement.

In 2017-18, as many as 3,117 companies spent Rs 8,365.35 crore towards CSR activities, as per data up to October 20, 2018.

The CSR provisions came into force from April 1, 2014.

Sai Venkateshwaran, Partner and Head, CFO Advisory at KPMG in India, said latest amendments to the companies law essentially make a voluntary social initiative a mandatory spend under law, akin to a social commitment levy.

"As a concept, CSR is meant to be voluntary and making it mandatory itself is a big change. However, the recent amendments have taken an unexpected turn with regards to penal provisions, for non-compliance with CSR requirements," he said.

About the amendments related to CSR, Madhu Sudan Kankani, Partner at Deloitte India, said there was enough encouragement to nudge companies to spend that much money. "In my view a lot of companies have taken it in a positive way to identify the projects... in some ways, it becomes mandatory but I think then spending that money was considered mandatory except that there was no penal provision...," he noted.

Chatterjee also said the CSR is now like a mandatory spend. "There are three countries where we have found that there are mandatory provisions like this. Indonesia, Mauritius and Nepal. Whether penal provisions also apply there, we don''t know...," she added.

Piloting the bill to amend companies law in Rajya Sabha on July 30, Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that any amount, remaining unutilised in such CSR account, shall thereafter be transferred to any fund specified in Schedule VII.

The schedule pertains to CSR.

"Section 135 is also to be amended to provide for specific penal provisions in case of non-compliance. I mentioned earlier, that it was easy for the people to interpret, saying either we comply with it or else we will give an explanation and get away with it.

"Now, that is not happening because Section 135 is also being amended to provide for a specific penal provision in case of non-compliance and authorise the central government, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, to give directions to the companies or any class of them for ensuring compliance with the provisions of the CSR," she had said.

The Pioneer | Feb 27, 2019

Nuvoco wins the FICCI CSR Award 2017-18 for women empowerment

Nuvoco Vistas Corp Ltd (formerly Lafarge India Limited), one of the country’s leading building materials manufacturers, bagged the FICCI CSR Award for 2017-18 in the Women Empowerment category at the 17th edition of FICCI CSR Awards ceremony held in New Delhi. They were awarded for their project ‘Aakriti’, which has brought about economic empowerment of women in the community by engaging them in sustainable sources of livelihood.

The project has been implemented in the Nimbaheda block of Chittorgarh where, over time, 400 women from neighbouring villages have been trained in tailoring and associated skills. The project runs across five villages of Mangrol, Bhawaliya, Unkhliya, Arniya Joshi, Nimbaheda in Chittorgarh. Project Aakriti has managed to transform the lives of women and their respective households by empowering them. Their financial independence has led to them have a stronger voice in dometic decision-making; while additionally improving the overall quality of life through better access to education, nutrition intake and asset creation. The project started as a pilot in 2014-15 when Nuvoco upgraded the stitching training centre to a ‘Production Centre’.

Speaking on the win Joydeep Chatterjee, chief of projects, CSR & corporate affairs, Nuvoco, said, “Aakriti has been one of our most challenging projects as it required changing highly conservative mindsets while also identifying a sustainable source of livelihood that was also considered acceptable for women in that milieu.

It is also one of our significant initiatives in enterprise development, which is thriving and self-sustaining. Viewed against this backdrop; the FICCI Award is an important validation of our efforts.”

The Avenue Mail | Feb 26, 2019

Nuvoco bags FICCI CSR Award for Women Empowerment

Project Aakriti has managed to transformed the lives of women and their respective households by empowering them. Their financial independence has led to them have a stronger voice in dometic decision-making; while additionally improving the overall quality of life through better access to education, nutrition intake and asset creation. The project started as a pilot in 2014-15 when Nuvoco upgraded the stitching training centre to a ‘Production Centre’.

Speaking on the win Joydeep Chatterjee, Chief of Projects, CSR & Corporate Affairs, Nuvoco, said, “Aakriti has been one of our most challenging projects as it required changing highly conservative mindsets while also identifying a sustainable source of livelihood that was also considered acceptable for women in that milieu. It is also one of our significant initiatives in enterprise development, which is thriving and self-sustaining. Viewed against this backdrop; the FICCI Award is an important validation of our efforts.”

News Patroling | Feb 26, 2019

Nuvoco wins the FICCI CSR award 2017-18 for women empowerment

The project has been implemented in the Nimbaheda block of Chittorgarh; where, over time, 400 women from neighbouring villages have been trained in tailoring and associated skills. The project runs across five villages of Mangrol, Bhawaliya, Unkhliya, Arniya Joshi, Nimbaheda in Chittorgarh. Project Aakriti has managed to transformed the lives of women and their respective households by empowering them. Their financial independence has led to them have a stronger voice in dometic decision-making; while additionally improving the overall quality of life through better access to education, nutrition intake and asset creation. The project started as a pilot in 2014-15 when Nuvoco upgraded the stitching training centre to a ‘Production Centre’.

This year, the awards had over 150 corporates and organisations participate in the various categories.

India CSR | Feb 23, 2019

CSR of ONGC in Jammu & Kashmir recognized by FICCI

Under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has been working in Baramulla and Uri of Jammu & Kashmir in the field of skill development, education, rehabilitation work with the support of Indian Army. This project has recently conferred with FICCI CSR Award.

As per report, since 2016, ONGC has undertaken various projects which have impacted the lives of the people in these areas sustainably. Over 150 girls have been trained in Fashion Designing and Stitching & Tailoring. Besides, hundreds of youth have been trained in Hospitality and Retail Sales Course. Over half the candidates got placements in various companies and hotels. These skill development courses are being run in the premises of Indian Army.

One of the unique CSR initiatives undertaken by ONGC is reconstruction of four houses at Uri destroyed during the militant attack in September 2017.

ONGC was on the forefront to support the reconstruction of those houses for the beneficiaries who could not afford to re-build those. Besides, ONGC also approved financial support for setting up of smart classes in 6 identified schools at Baramulla and Uri, Jammu & Kashmir to promote digital academic learning of the students.

The Pioneer | Feb 23, 2019

JSPL bags FICCI CSR Award for Women Empowerment

Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL) was conferred the FICCI Corporate Social Responsibility Awards for Women Empowerment at the 17th edition of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) CSR summit and awards held at New Delhi Thursday.

The JSPL won this prestigious award for its innovative and high impact women empowerment programmes, implemented by the Company’s CSR Arm JSPL Foundation, across its operational areas in India.

JSPL director and the co-chairperson of the JSPL Foundation, Shallu Jindal received the award from Union Minister of Commerce and Industry and Civil Aviation Suresh Prabhu.

Upon receiving the Award Shallu Jindal, said “The JSPL Foundation strongly believes that Women are the fulcrum of holistic improvement in the lives of families and the prime mover of development of the nation. Our multidimensional women empowerment programmes are being implemented across the country, covering more than 6 lakh women enhancing their quality of life and decision making power.”

The JSPL Foundation has been executing multidimensional development programmes in the areas of health, education, skill building, livelihood promotion and sports, enhancing the quality of life of more than 6.4 lakh women on sustainable basis in Angul, Keonjhar and Sundergarh districts of Odisha, Ramgarh and West Singhbhum districts of Jharkhand and Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh and other parts of India.

Orissadiary.com | Feb 22, 2019

ONGC CSR work in Jammu & Kashmir recognized by FICCI

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has been conferred with FICCI award for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects undertaken by it in Baramulla and Uri of Jammu & Kashmir. ONGC undertook CSR projects in the field of skill development, education, rehabilitation work on the frontiers and contribution to nation building in association with the Indian Army and NGO REACHA.

The award was received by Dr Alka Mittal, Director (HR), ONGC from Mr Suresh Prabhu, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation during the 17th edition of the FICCI Corporate Social Responsibility Awards on 21 February 2019 at India Habitat Center, New Delhi.

ONGC Director (HR) Dr. Alka Mittal (right) receiving the FICCI award from Union Minister Suresh Prabhu

The aim of the FICCI award is to identify and recognize the efforts of companies in integrating and internalizing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Since 2016, ONGC has undertaken various projects which have impacted the lives of the people in these areas sustainably. Over 150 girls have been trained in Fashion Designing and Stitching & Tailoring. Besides, hundreds of youth have been trained in Hospitality and Retail Sales Course. Over half the candidates got placements in various companies and hotels. These skill development courses are being run in the premises of Indian Army.

One of the unique CSR initiatives undertaken by ONGC is reconstruction of four houses at Uri destroyed during the militant attack in September 2017. ONGC was on the forefront to support the reconstruction of those houses for the beneficiaries who could not afford to re-build those. Besides, ONGC also approved financial support for setting up of smart classes in 6 identified schools at Baramulla and Uri, Jammu & Kashmir to promote digital academic learning of the students.

SME Times | Feb 22, 2019

'CSR mutually beneficial relationship for corporates, society'

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is mutually beneficial relationship between corporates and society, said Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu on Thursday.

Addressing the 17th FICCI CSR Awards today at the FICCI CSR Summit and Awards, Prabhu said corporates and society were not mutually exclusive, one cannot survive without the other.

Therefore, CSR should not be seen as mere responsibility but a mutually beneficial relationship for both.

Speaking at the event, Rajashree Birla, Chairperson FICCI CSR & Community Development Committee, invoked the Gandhian philosophy of moral responsibility to bring about a change. The propagation of khadi by Gandhiji, she said, has today become a movement and an enterprise development model.

She said that the entrepreneurial instincts of tens of millions of India had given rise to over 36 million MSMEs.

People of this country have taken the enterprise development solutions for the empowerment of the vulnerable sections. The time now was to propel it to the next level, she added.

FICCI CSR Summit and Awards is an annual event of the FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence that promotes sharing, acknowledging CSR Best practices, opportunities for partnerships, scaling and replicating CSR programs and was instituted in 1999 by FICCI.

The summit deliberated on various aspects of incorporating Enterprise Development Model in CSR, the impact of CSR in India.

Business Standard | Feb 22, 2019

JSPL wins FICCI CSR Award for Women Empowerment

Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL) has been honoured with the prestigious 'FICCI CSR Award' for Women Empowerment, a company release said Friday.

JSPL won the award for its innovative and high impact women empowerment programmes, implemented by the companys CSR Arm - JSPL Foundation, across its operational areas in the country, the release said.

Director, JSPL and the Co-Chairperson of JSPL Foundation Shallu Jindal received the award from Union Commerce and Industry and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu at a function held in Delhi on Thursday, it said.

Shallu Jindal said JSPL Foundation strongly believes that women are the fulcrum of holistic improvement in the lives of families and the prime mover of development of the nation.

"Our multi-dimensional women empowerment programmes are being implemented across the country covering more than six lakh women enhancing their quality of life and decision making power," she said.

The Week | Feb 22, 2019

JSPL wins FICCI CSR Award for Women Empowerment

Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL) has been honoured with the prestigious 'FICCI CSR Award' for Women Empowerment, a company release said Friday.

Shallu Jindal said JSPL Foundation strongly believes that women are the fulcrum of holistic improvement in the lives of families and the prime mover of development of the nation.

"Our multi-dimensional women empowerment programmes are being implemented across the country covering more than six lakh women enhancing their quality of life and decision making power," she said.

Business Standard | Nov 21, 2018

Focus attention on uplifting the poor, farmers, weavers and craftsmen to achieve real growth: Vice President

Mr M. Venkaiah Naidu, the Vice President of India, today called upon the people to re-dedicate themselves to the task of nation building by focusing attention on the uplift of the poor, illiterate and the victims of caste and religion-based discrimination. Real growth and development will happen when the focus is turned on the plight of the farmers, weavers and craftsmen, he said while speaking at the 150th Birth Anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi, organised by FICCI and the FICCI- Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence.

Mr Naidu said, "Share and Care' is the core of Indian philosophy and it was incumbent on all to make everyone partners to partake of the fruits of development".

The Vice President lauded the Aditya Birla Group for adopting the values of trusteeship in the conduct of its business.

This event was under the aegis of a specially constituted Steering Committee chaired by Ms Rajashree Birla to blaze forth the message of the Mahatma. The overarching objective is to create various business platforms over the year based on Gandhiji's narratives, his vision and philosophy of embedding the ethos of ethics in business with the philosophy of trusteeship at its core, finally leading up to a grand culmination event later next year.

The Vice President of India also handed over a cheque of Rs. 32 Lakh for sponsoring 202 'Charkhas' to Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Chairman, Dr. Vinai Kumar Saxena, on behalf of Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives &Rural Development.

The Sentinel | Nov 21, 2018

Mahatma Gandhi led a bloodless revolution: Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday remembered Mahatma Gandhi as one of the greatest revolutionaries the world has ever seen, whose “bloodless revolution” inspired great leaders like Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela. “Mahatma Gandhi is one of the greatest revolutionaries the world has ever seen, only his revolutions were bloodless and peaceful,” Naidu said while addressing the corporate world leaders who had gathered to celebrate 150th anniversary year of Mahatma Gandhi, organized by the FICCI-Aditya Birla CSR Centre of Excellence.

“He struggled against injustice by practicing justice, he struggled against violence non-violently, he opposed discrimination by embracing one and all,” the Vice President said. He tried to draw the attention of industry captains towards migrant distress the big cities are facing and hailed Gandhi for his championing of ‘Swadeshi’ movement which focused on manufacturing goods in the country.

“Today, we see a disturbing trend of distress migration from rural to urban areas. Our rural economy is weak and fails to provide enough opportunities for livelihood. It is time India honours his wishes and goes back to its villages. “Real growth will happen in India when we are able to empower rural India, especially our farmers, our weavers and our craftsmen,” he said.

millenniumpost | Nov 20, 2018

Vice President visits KVIC's stall

Khadi once again won the accolades from Vice President of India – M Venkaiah Naidu. On November 19, Naidu visited the exclusive stall of Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) at Ambedakar International Center, before chairing the Commemorative Event of 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, organised by FICCI – Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence.

KVIC Chairman Vinai Kumar Saxena welcomed him with the shawl and momento there. On the inspiring event of commemorating 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Rashtrapita Mahatma Gandhi, Venkaiah Naidu, Vice President of India presented a cheque of Rs 32, 00,000/– towards sponsorship of 202 Charkhas to V K Saxena, Chairman KVIC, in the presence of Rajashree Birla, wife of Aditya Birla.

The donation was sponsored by Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiative and Rural Development under the auspices of FICCI.

Later, addressing the function, Naidu said that for Gandhi, Khadi was not just a political icon or a symbol of national pride, it was also a way to empower the rural economy.

"Today we see a disturbing trend of distress migration from rural to urban areas. Our rural economy is weak and fails to provide enough opportunities for livelihood. It is time India honors the Mahatma's wishes and goes back to its villages. Real growth will happen in India when we are able to empower rural India, especially our farmers, our weavers and our craftsmen," he said.

"As Gandhi himself said that the spinning-wheel represents the hope of the masses and the Charkha supplemented the agriculture of the villagers and gave it dignity, being the friend and solace of the rural women and keeping the villagers from idleness, I am extremely obliged by the generosity of the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiative and Rural Development, for donating Rs 32 lakh cheque to the KVIC family," said Chairman KVIC.

Hindustan Times | Nov 20, 2018

Country’s real growth only when rural India is truly empowered, says Venkaiah Naidu

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said in New Delhi on Monday that India’s real growth can be achieved only when rural India is truly empowered. Naidu added that everyone has to be part of the country’s development story to create a peaceful atmosphere.

Addressing the Commemorative Event of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, organised by FICCI – Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence, Naidu said that “a simple memory of Mahatma is not sufficient” and that the nation needs to follow his principles.

“Having surnames, naming a road or an institution, are also not enough. We must follow his path,” added Naidu.

Rajashree Birla, chairperson, FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence said: “We, in the Birla family, through my grandfather-in-law Shri GD Birla, shared a symbiotic bond with Mahatma Gandhi. We look upon this linkage as a great blessing.”

Hailing the Narendra Modi government for ushering in several policies and schemes to pay a fitting tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, Vice PresidentVenkaiah Naidu emphasised that people must strive together to realise Gandhiji’s dreams of ‘Ram Rajya’— a state based on the principals of equality where there is no discrimination of any kind based on caste or sex or financial status.

Pointing out that Mahatma Gandhi was a firm believer in cleanliness, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said Swachh Bharat (one of this government’s main schemes) means cleanliness of body and soul and alsi transparency in dealing with financial resources.

The Times of India | Nov 19, 2018

Naming street or erecting statue alone won't be real tribute to Gandhi: Venkaiah Naidu

Naming any street and park or erecting a statue "won't be a real tribute" to Mahatma Gandhi, but following his ideals to make a strong, equitable and discrimination-free India would be a true homage to him, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said Monday.

Addressing a function hosted here by business body FICCI to mark 150th birth anniversary of Gandhi, Naidu extolled him has one of the greatest revolutionaries and said his teaching and preaching are "eternal" with a sense of "universal appeal".

"Naming a street or a park or erecting a statue or wearing a cap or having his name alone is not the real tribute. Have some name, but we should follow his ideals, the value he stood for and follow them. That should be the real homage to the Mahatma," Naidu said.

Gandhiji understood the inalienable love of mankind and knew no discrimination between countrymen and foreigners.

Naidu said that Gandhi believed in equality and relentlessly spoke of women empowerment. The Mahatma himself was influenced by iconic women like Annie Besant and Sarojini Naidu in his life, he said, and urged policy makers of India to place gender equality and women's empowerment at the centre of the development agenda.

"We should imbibe the values of Gandhiji and work together towards a society where people won't be discriminated on the basis of caste, creed, colour, religion or region. That will be the true tribute to the Mahatma on his 150th anniversary," he said.

The vice president also urged the people to work towards uplifting the poor and bringing development in the rural India, which he said Gandhiji considered the place of real India.

"Gandhi was an ardent believer in the principle of self-reliance. He constantly spoke about 'swadeshi'. He yearned to build self-sufficient 'adarsh villages'. He said that the soul of India rested in its villages. It is time we honour his wishes," he said. "Uplifting of the poorest, most deprived groups of people, the 'Antoyodya' was a mission close to the Mahatma's heart.... He struggled against injustice by practicing justice, he struggled against violence non-violently, he opposed discrimination by embracing one and all," Naidu said.

Gandhiji's principles of liberty, dignity and equality are not limited by space and time. They have universal applicability and timeless value. He was one of the greatest revolutionaries the world has ever seen, only his revolutions were bloodless and peaceful, he added.

On the issue of corruption, Naidu said that world should arrive at a consensus in refusing shelter to economic fugitives and create a framework for extradition treaties and exchange of information on black money.

As the event coincided with the World Toilet Day, Naidu also touched upon the Swachh Bharat mission of the Centre.

"Gandhiji firmly believed that cleanliness was next to godliness. He felt that sanitation was as important as political freedom. Today, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has become a mass movement," Naidu said.

"Let us all strive together to realise Gandhiji's dreams and usher in a 'Ram Rajya' where all are equal and there is no discrimination of any kind," he said, adding, "let us rededidcate ourselves to the cause of the nation".

Naidu also visited an exhibition on Gandhi's life put up in the foyer of the venue, Ambedkar International Centre here, and urged the organisers to host more such events.

Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Parameswaran Iyer; Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Chairman V K Saxena; Rajashree Birla, philanthropist and Chairperson of the FICCI - Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence; and Sudarshan Iyengar, former Vice Chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapeeth also addressed the gathering, which included industry leaders and school children.

The Indian Express | Nov 19, 2018

Naming street or erecting statue alone won’t be real tribute to Gandhi: Venkaiah Naidu

Naming any street and park or erecting a statue “won’t be a real tribute” to Mahatma Gandhi, but following his ideals to make a strong, equitable and discrimination-free India would be a true homage to him, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said Monday.

“Naming a street or a park or erecting a statue or wearing a cap or having his name alone is not the real tribute. Have some name, but we should follow his ideals, the value he stood for and follow them. That should be the real homage to the Mahatma,” Naidu said.

Gandhiji understood the inalienable love of mankind and knew no discrimination between countrymen and foreigners.

Naidu said that Gandhi believed in equality and relentlessly spoke of women empowerment. The Mahatma himself was influenced by iconic women like Annie Besant and Sarojini Naidu in his life, he said and urged policymakers of India to place gender equality and women’s empowerment at the centre of the development agenda.

“We should imbibe the values of Gandhiji and work together towards a society where people won’t be discriminated on the basis of caste, creed, colour, religion or region. That will be the true tribute to the Mahatma on his 150th anniversary,” he said.

The vice president also urged the people to work towards uplifting the poor and bringing development in rural India, which he said Gandhiji considered the place of real India.

“Gandhi was an ardent believer in the principle of self-reliance. He constantly spoke about ‘swadeshi’. He yearned to build self-sufficient ‘adarsh villages’. He said that the soul of India rested in its villages. It is time we honour his wishes,” he said.

“Uplifting of the poorest, most deprived groups of people, the ‘Antoyodya’ was a mission close to the Mahatma’s heart… He struggled against injustice by practicing justice, he struggled against violence non-violently, he opposed discrimination by embracing one and all,” Naidu said.

Gandhiji’s principles of liberty, dignity and equality are not limited by space and time. They have universal applicability and timeless value. He was one of the greatest revolutionaries the world has ever seen, only his revolutions were bloodless and peaceful, he added.

As the event coincided with the World Toilet Day, Naidu also touched upon the Swachh Bharat mission of the Centre.

“Gandhiji firmly believed that cleanliness was next to godliness. He felt that sanitation was as important as political freedom. Today, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has become a mass movement,” Naidu said.

“Let us all strive together to realise Gandhiji’s dreams and usher in a ‘Ram Rajya’ where all are equal and there is no discrimination of any kind,” he said, adding, “let us rededicate ourselves to the cause of the nation”.

Naidu also visited an exhibition on Gandhi’s life put up in the foyer of the venue, Ambedkar International Centre here, and urged the organisers to host more such events.

Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Parameswaran Iyer; Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Chairman V K Saxena; Rajashree Birla, philanthropist and Chairperson of the FICCI – Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence; and Sudarshan Iyengar, former Vice-Chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapeeth also addressed the gathering, which included industry leaders and school children.

News18 | Nov 19, 2018

Naming Street or Erecting Statue Alone Won't Be Real Tribute to Gandhi: Naidu

Addressing a function hosted here by business body Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to mark 150th birth anniversary of Gandhi, Naidu extolled him as one of the greatest revolutionaries and said his teaching and preaching are ‘eternal’ with a sense of ‘universal appeal’.

Gandhi understood the inalienable love of mankind and knew no discrimination between countrymen and foreigners.

The vice president also urged the people to work towards uplifting the poor and bringing development in the rural India, which he said Gandhiji considered the place of real India.

"Gandhi was an ardent believer in the principle of self-reliance. He constantly spoke about 'swadeshi'. He yearned to build self-sufficient 'adarsh villages'. He said that the soul of India rested in its villages. It is time we honour his wishes," he said. "Uplifting the poorest, most deprived groups of people, the 'Antoyodya' was a mission close to the Mahatma's heart.... He struggled against injustice by practicing justice, he struggled against violence non-violently, he opposed discrimination by embracing one and all," Naidu said.

On the issue of corruption, Naidu said that the world should arrive at a consensus in refusing shelter to economic fugitives and create a framework for extradition treaties and exchange of information on black money.

As the event coincided with the World Toilet Day, Naidu also touched upon the Swachh Bharat mission of the Centre.

"Let us all strive together to realise Gandhiji's dreams and usher in a 'Ram Rajya' where all are equal and there is no discrimination of any kind," he said, adding, "Let us rededicate ourselves to the cause of the nation".

Naidu also visited an exhibition on Gandhi's life put up in the foyer of the venue, Ambedkar International Centre here, and urged the organisers to host more such events.

Business Standard | Nov 19, 2018

Naming street or erecting statue alone won't be real tribute to Gandhi: Naidu

Gandhiji understood the inalienable love of mankind and knew no discrimination between countrymen and foreigners.

The vice president also urged the people to work towards uplifting the poor and bringing development in the rural India, which he said Gandhiji considered the place of real India.

"Uplifting of the poorest, most deprived groups of people, the 'Antoyodya' was a mission close to the Mahatma's heart.... He struggled against injustice by practicing justice, he struggled against violence non-violently, he opposed discrimination by embracing one and all," Naidu said.

As the event coincided with the World Toilet Day, Naidu also touched upon the Swachh Bharat mission of the Centre.

Naidu also visited an exhibition on Gandhi's life put up in the foyer of the venue, Ambedkar International Centre here, and urged the organisers to host more such events.

Business Standard | Oct 27, 2018

Mpower Partners With FICCI to Host 'Speak Up' -India's Mental Health Conference

Speak Up, an annual conference will bring together varied stakeholders of mental health in India

Mpower, a pioneer in the mental healthcare industry of India, has partnered with FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre for Excellence, for an annual leadership forum 'Speak Up' - National Mental Health Movement.

Scheduled on October 30th, 2018 in New Delhi, the inaugural conference will see Mrs. Neerja Birla delivering the keynote on the theme - 'The need to speak up and fight the stigma around mental health in India'.

In its quest to create awareness, alleviate stigma and encourage dialogue around mental health in India, Mpower and FICCI have collaborated along with eminent leaders and experts from the mental health industry including medical and non-medical professionals, Government bodies, national associations, corporates, media, influencers, academicians to discuss emerging concerns around Mental Health in India. The flagship event would witness public addresses, panel discussions, Q-A sessions and exhibits set-ups at the venue by influencers and sponsors, supporting the cause.

The daylong conference will bring to the fore and address critical aspects pertaining to mental health including the implementation of the Mental Healthcare Act, un-addressed concerns such as contradictory ideology of POCSO Act and Disability Act, spotting signs and early intervention, bridging the gap between available resources and required ecosystem to build positive mental health, capacity building for the Mental Health and workplace. The event will also touch upon recognising mental well-being impacting young adults against increased instances of bullying, peer and exam pressure resulting in increased number of suicide incidents amongst students, rise of suicidal internet games like the Blue Whale challenge.

Commenting on this partnership, Jyoti Narain Kapoor, CEO, Mpower, said, "Today, mental health is a growing concern in India impacting individuals across age groups, demographics and socio-economic background. At Mpower, we are committed to build a movement to drive awareness, stir conversations and encourage an open outlook towards mental health. We believe, now more than ever, it is imperative for all stakeholders to come together to discuss and deliberate and create an ecosystem of change. In association with FICCI, we are proud to launch an industry first platform, 'Speak Up', which aims to discuss ground realities of the state of mental health in our country and work towards a stigma-free tomorrow."

The brainchild of Mrs. Neerja Birla, Mpower since its inception 2 years ago, has been actively championing the cause of mental health to create awareness, advocate prevention and greater adoption/acceptance of services leading way to a professional, holistic and multi-disciplinary approach in India.

The Hindu Business Line | Mar 07, 2018

Sustainable development: Need to avoid one-size-fits-all approach, says Minister

Corporate India should look at sustainable development issues relevant to different regions in the country and avoid a ‘one size fits all’ approach, said PP Chaudhary, Minister of State for Law and Justice and Corporate Affairs.

Addressing FICCI’s ‘India Sustainability Conclave 2018’ in the Capital, Chaudhary said that good corporate governance was not just a means of enhancing long-term value for companies but also to provide lasting benefits to consumers and other stakeholders.

Corporates, therefore, need to look beyond the four walls of their companies and strive to match the drive to become responsible and accountable entities with the benevolent impact of their actions on the environment and society, he said.

CSR boost

Chaudhary said that the role of corporates in CSR and delivery of Sustainable Development Goals was important as the amount spent by them on CSR activity was much higher than government spending on development.

This is borne out by CSR data captured in the National CSR portal which disseminates CSR-related data and information filed by the companies registered with it.

On the occasion, the Minister launched a FICCI compilation titled ‘Corporates for Change’.

Ashok Chawla, Chairman, National Stock Exchange and former Finance Secretary, underscored the need for a full-time Chief Sustainability Officer who could push the sustainability agenda of a company. He said that the global corporate community had realised that resources were finite and they needed to be used efficiently.

Chawla also said that delivery mechanism and implementation needed to be strengthened, otherwise valuable resources would be lost.

While acknowledging that multilateral and bilateral funds had dried up as they were being diverted to countries like Africa, Chawla said there were funds available which focused on green issues and those could be tapped by the Indian corporates.

live mint | Mar 07, 2018

Corporate social responsibility spends of firms warrant audit, says P.P. Chaudhary

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) spending by businesses warrants auditing as their total spend of about Rs 15,000 crore a year has the potential to transform the rural economy by complementing government efforts, said P.P. Chaudhary, minister of state for law and justice and corporate affairs.

Speaking at the India Sustainability Conclave organized by industry chamber Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Chaudhary said the government was in the process of improving procedures relating to CSR spending outlined in the Companies Act of 2013.

The law mandates that firms with a net worth of at least Rs 500 crore or revenue of Rs 1,000 crore or net profit of Rs 5 crore should spend at least 2% of net profit on CSR. It also mandates that any failure in this regard should be explained in the annual financial statement. The disclosure requirement was meant to ensure firms do their best in CSR initiatives.

“We are now in the process of improving it. In the coming years, we would also like to see it audited. No doubt that as on today, companies are taking full care and are personally visiting projects to ensure proper spending, but certainly, the government will also like to take steps in this direction,” the minister said.

Speaking to Mint on the sidelines of the conclave, the minister said the government is contemplating auditing CSR spending. “It is under deliberation. Why not (audit)? It is an yearly spending of Rs 15,000 crore. Auditing of firms should include everything,” he said.

The idea is that the funds businesses spend on CSR should complement efforts of the government in boosting the rural economy, which will not only bring development, but also stimulate the country’s $2.5 trillion economy.

Experts, however, say the provision in the law mandating spending of 2% of net profit on CSR initiatives is only recommendatory and not a statutory obligation as there is no penalty provision for failing to meet this requirement. Bringing CSR spending under the purview of audits could give it the nature of a tax, they add.

“The Companies Act provision on CSR spending was kept recommendatory along with disclosure requirement as the perception of the firm among stakeholders and the public will be encouragement enough to ensure that businesses comply with it. It is desirable that it continues that way,” said Ved Jain, former president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

Chaudhary said inclusive growth is an avowed objective of the government which calls for “intensive collaboration” between the authorities and the corporate sector. He said this would improve the quality of life in rural and urban areas and offers an opportunity to all firms to meaningfully contribute to policy objectives.

“Once the rural economy is sound, then the entire economy will be on a better footing,” the minister said, adding that the government and businesses collectively share the onus of making the society inclusive, compassionate and responsive.

The minister said cleanliness, health and education are among the areas where CSR spending would make a lot of difference. Chaudhary had informed Parliament in a written statement on 9 February that companies spent Rs 13,828 crore on CSR in 2015-16.

United News of India | Mar 06, 2018

Corporates need to look at sustainable development issues relevant to regions: Chaudhary

Minister of State for Law & Justice and Corporate Affairs PP Chaudhary on Tuesday urged industry to look at sustainable development issues relevant to different regions in the country and avoid a 'one size fits all' approach to meet the growing requirements of building robust companies and an inclusive and responsive society.

Addressing FICCI's 'India Sustainability Conclave 2018' on theme 'Balancing business goals in a sustainable paradigm', Mr Chaudhry said good corporate governance was not just a means of enhancing long term value for companies but also to provide lasting benefits to consumers and other stakeholders.

The Minister said the role of corporates in CSR and delivery of SDGs was important as the amount spent by them on CSR activity was much higher than government spending on development.

This is borne out by CSR data captured in the National CSR portal which disseminates CSR-related data and information filed by the companies registered with it, he said.

On the occasion, Mr Chaudhry launched a FICCI compilation titled 'Corporates for Change'.

Ashok Chawla, Chairman, National Stock Exchange of India Ltd & Former Secretary,

Ministry of Finance, Government of India; Mr Lorenzo Pavone, Deputy Head, Partnerships and Networks Unit, OECD Development Centre; Mr V Parthasarathy, Chairman, FICCI CFO Council & Group CFO & CIO, Member of the Executive Board, Mahindra & Mahindra Group and FICCI Director General Dilip Chenoy also shared their perspective on the issue, according to an official statement here.

The Pioneer | Dec 10, 2017

DEPwD organizes workshop on accessibility & inclusion at workplace

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India recently organized Sensitization Workshop on ‘Accessibility & Inclusion at Workplace: Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016' in collaboration with FICCI at Federation House, New Delhi. The objective of the workshop was to sensitize private sector, about the recently enacted Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 which came into force from 19.04.2017 in place of earlier PwD Act, 1995. The workshop also included the discussion on ‘Popularization of Accessibility Index', ‘CSR Funding and Employability of PwDs' and ‘Incentives to Private Employer Scheme'. Inaugurating the session Secretary, DEPwD, Shakuntala Doley Gamlin emphasized the need of private sector to make their environment and workplace accessible and inclusive. Also, she highlighted the fact that self-realization and self-actualization would be achieved only if we take rights of persons with disabilities seriously.

Focus News | Dec 10, 2017

Need to focus on innovation to explore the talent of people with disabilities

Ms Shakuntala Doley Gamlin, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Govt. of India said, "today the total number of disabled in India according to 2011 survey is 2.68 crore, of which, majority are living in poor condition. We need to focus on making them part of the society and discover their talent which is often unexplored because of lack of exposure. We must look at people like Bill Gates, Stephen Hawking who have achieved exemplary success despite their disabilities. We need to look for innovation beyond technology and focus on innovation for people with disabilities so that their optimum talent can be explored. The central government is taking a leadership role for it to be implemented successfully across the states". She was addressing a sensitization workshop on 'Accessibility & Inclusion at Workplace: Rights of Persons with Disabilities ACT 2016 (RPwD Act, 2016)' organized by FICCI in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan),Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, GoI here on Thursday. Smt. Dolly Chakrabarty, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), GoI took the audience through the salient features of 'The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016' and shared about the plans for popularization of Accessibility Index and Incentives to Private Employer Scheme.

Briefing about the Act, she mentioned that the obligations under the new disability act apply not only to Government establishments but also to "private establishments", be it companies, firms, cooperatives or other societies, associations, trusts, agencies, institutions, organizations, unions, factories or such other establishments as may be specified. Such private employers are now subject to requirements (i) to promote an equal opportunity policy and (ii) to comply with the standards of accessibility prescribed by the Indian Central Government. Supplementing Smt. Gamlin's speech, she also said that Disability and poverty go hand in hand and to break this vicious circle, we must empower them through access to opportunities. Ms Uma Seth, Director, FICCI CSR said, 'FICCI strongly believes in creating an inclusive India and we have been working on building such an environment through FICCI's CSR vertical since the last two decades.

Going beyond the Act, Shanti Lakshmanan from V-Shesh shared National and International Best Practices on Accessibility & Inclusion at the Workplace. This was followed by discussion with corporates who are already striving to make their workplace both Accessible & Inclusive. Mr. Ashutosh Chaddha, ‎Group Director, Government Affairs and Public Policy, ‎Microsoft India shared about assistive technology for empowerment of people with disabilities. Ms Akanksha Sharma, ‎Head, CSR & Sustainability, ‎Jubilant Food Works Ltd. shared how Jubilant has created an inclusive and accessible environment for employment of PwDs in their business operations and Mr. Nipun Malhotra, Executive Director, Nipman Fastener Industries Pvt Ltd. shared how Nipman Foundation has a team of trained accessibility auditors who have audited and provided recommendations for PwD friendly infrastructure including Delhi Metro, Delhi Haat, Supreme Court and have also worked with the Election commission and the Indian Railways Committee. The discussion concluded with interesting question and answers between government, corporates and NGOs highlighting issues such as the roadblocks of empowering PwDs in backward rural areas, unavailability of sign language interpreters in various locations like airport, tourist areas etc., bringing attitudinal change towards disability. The program was attended by over 80 organizations.

Business Standard | Dec 09, 2017

Need to focus on innovation for people with disabilities

There is a need to look for innovation beyond technology and focus on innovation for people with disabilities so that their optimum talent can be explored, said Shakuntala Doley Gamlin, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Government of India (GoI) recently in New Delhi.

She also said that the central government is taking a leadership role for it to be implemented successfully across the states, and added that the total number of disabled people in India according to a 2011 survey is 2.68 crore of which majority are living in poor condition.

"We need to focus on making them part of the society and discover their talent which is often unexplored because of lack of exposure," she stated highlighting that people like Bill Gates, Stephen Hawking who have achieved exemplary success despite their disabilities.

Gamlin was addressing a sensitization workshop on 'Accessibility & Inclusion at Workplace: Rights of Persons with Disabilities ACT 2016 (RPwD Act, 2016)' organized by FICCI in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, GoI.

Sharing about the plans for popularization of Accesibility Index and incentives to Private Employer Scheme, Dolly Chakrabarty, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) said that disability and poverty go hand in hand and to break this vicious circle, we must empower them through access to opportunities.

FICCI director Uma Seth also said that FICCI strongly believes in creating an inclusive India and we have been working on building such an environment through FICCI's Corpoate Social Responsibility (CSR) vertical since the last two decades.

The discussion concluded with interesting question and answers between government, corporates and NGOs highlighting issues such as the roadblocks of empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in backward rural areas, unavailability of sign language interpreters in various locations like airport, tourist areas etc., and bringing attitudinal change towards disability.

ABP Live | Dec 09, 2017

Need to focus on innovation for people with disabilities

ANI | Dec 09, 2017

Need to focus on innovation for people with disabilities

India Samvad | Dec 09, 2017

Need to focus on innovation to explore talent of people with disabilities: Govt

According to a 2011 survey, there are around 2.68 cr persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) people living in India. The majority among this number are living in poor condition.

Shakuntala Doley Gamlin, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), said that there was a need to focus on making them part of the society and discover their talent which is often unexplored because of lack of exposure.

Addressing a sensitization workshop on ‘Accessibility & Inclusion at Workplace: Rights of Persons with Disabilities ACT 2016 (RPwD Act, 2016)’ organized by industry body FICCI Gamlin said, “We must look at people like Bill Gates, Stephen Hawking who have achieved exemplary success despite their disabilities. We need to look for innovation beyond technology and focus on innovation for people with disabilities so that their optimum talent can be explored”.

She added that the central government was taking a leadership role for it to be implemented successfully across the states.

Dolly Chakrabarty, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), highlighted the salient features of ‘The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016’ and shared about the plans for the popularization of Accessibility Index and Incentives to Private Employer Scheme.

Briefing about the Act, she mentioned that the obligations under the new disability act apply not only to Government establishments but also to “private establishments”, be it companies, firms, cooperatives or other societies, associations, trusts, agencies, institutions, organizations, unions, factories or such other establishments as may be specified.

Such private employers are now subject to requirements (i) to promote an equal opportunity policy and (ii) to comply with the standards of accessibility prescribed by the Indian Central Government.

Supplementing Smt. Gamlin’s speech, she also said that Disability and poverty go hand in hand and to break this vicious circle, we must empower them through access to opportunities.

Uma Seth, Director, FICCI CSR said, “FICCI strongly believes in creating an inclusive India and we have been working on building such an environment through FICCI’s CSR vertical since the last two decades.”

The Hans India | Dec 09, 2017

Need to focus on innovation for people with disabilities

Outlook | Dec 08, 2017

Need to focus on innovation for people with disabilities

The Pioneer | Dec 01, 2017

Firms getting into social issues makes eco sense: UK Sinha

Corporates getting into the areas of environment, social and governance issues makes ‘economic sense’, according to former Sebi chief UK Sinha. Sinha, who retired as chairman of Sebi earlier this year, also said that in order to compete with the best corporates in the world, Indian companies have to actively participate and imbibe in their culture concerns for the environment, concern for social issues.

“It makes economic sense for corporates to get into the areas of environment, social and governance issues,” Sinha said at a CSR Summit and Awards function here. According to him, after the sustainable development goals framed by the UN, there was an adoption of the UN principles of responsible investment.

“In the beginning there were largely 100 investors who were member of this, today their number has shot up to more than 1,700. They are now looking at indices where issues like how the environmental concern is addressed by the corporates,” he noted. While citing the example of Morgan Stanley environment social and governance emerging market index, Sinha said between 2008-09 and today, share prices of all these indices are more than other indices. “If we can take the emerging market index as 105, the return of the ESG index is 155, so now it makes business sense, to show your concern.”

“Because people who are your stakeholders, they are also going to demand what you are doing on environment issues, social issues. It is no longer confined to the requirement of law or being a moral or ethical issue,” Sinha said.

The event was organised by industry body FICCI. Minister of State for Corporate Affairs PP Chaudhary, Charge D' Affairs, Embassy of the Republic of Korea Lee Hai Kwang and FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre of Excellence Chairperson Rajashree Birla, among others, were present.

The Political and Business Daily | Dec 01, 2017

CSR spending jumped 12 pc to Rs 9,882 cr during 2015-16, says PP Chaudhary

Companies spent nearly 12 per cent more money at Rs 9,882 crore towards CSR works in 2015- 16, Union minister P P Chaudhary said today even as he appealed to companies to contribute more to such activities. He also said that a host of government programmes, including Swachh Bharat Mission and Namami Gange, provide opportunities for corporates to meet their CSR mandate under the companies law.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, certain class of profitable entities have to spend at least 2 per cent of their three-year average annual net income towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities in a financial year.

"We have analysed the CSR expenditure of the companies for the year 2015-16 from the annual financial statements filed with the government. We have found that the actual CSR expenditure was Rs 9,822 crore which is 11.57 per cent higher than that of previous year," the minister said.

The CSR provisions came into force from April 1, 2014. "I hope that the India Inc will continue to accentuate their contribution for CSR in the coming years," Chaudhary, the Minister of State for Corporate Affairs, said.

Speaking at an event organised by industry body CII, he also said the government has launched a host of programmes, plans and schemes to address social development challenges. "This has opened a host of opportunities for companies not only to meet their CSR mandate but also to collaborate with the government in their nation-building efforts," he noted.

At a CSR Summit and Awards function organised by industry body FICCI, Chaudhary said companies through their CSR activities are playing an important role in building the nation.

Skill development and entrepreneurship development cannot be viewed in isolation, the minister said, adding that they should be an integral part of employment and economic growth strategies which in turn would help spur employability as well as productivity.

Further, he said that companies through their CSR initiatives are working on various issues plaguing today's youth such as those related to health, water, environment and livelihoods. "We are aware that engaging young people in policy dialogues and decision making processes are chief determinants in the socio economic empowerment of youth ...They (youth) and they also contribute to overall sustainable social economic, environmental and cultural development," he said.

Outlook | Dec 01, 2017

'Cos getting into social issues makes economic sense'

Corporates getting into the areas of environment, social and governance issues makes "economic sense", according to former Sebi chief U K Sinha.

Sinha, who retired as chairman of Sebi earlier this year, also said that in order to compete with the best corporates in the world, Indian companies have to actively participate and imbibe in their culture concerns for the environment, concern for social issues.

"It makes economic sense for corporates to get into the areas of environment, social and governance issues," Sinha said at a CSR Summit and Awards function here.

According to him, after the sustainable development goals framed by the UN, there was an adoption of the UN principles of responsible investment.

"In the beginning there were largely 100 investors who were member of this, today their number has shot up to more than 1,700. They are now looking at indices where issues like how the environmental concern is addressed by the corporates," he noted.

While citing the example of Morgan Stanley environment social and governance emerging market index, Sinha said between 2008-09 and today, share prices of all these indices are more than other indices.

"If we can take the emerging market index as 105, the return of the ESG index is 155, so now it makes business sense, to show your concern.

"Because people who are your stakeholders, they are also going to demand what you are doing on environment issues, social issues. It is no longer confined to the requirement of law or being a moral or ethical issue," Sinha said.

The event was organised by industry body FICCI.

Minister of State for Corporate Affairs P P Chaudhary, Charge D' Affairs, Embassy of the Republic of Korea Lee Hai Kwang and FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre of Excellence Chairperson Rajashree Birla, among others, were present.

The Times of India | Dec 01, 2017

'Cos getting into social issues makes economic sense'

Corporates getting into the areas of environment, social and governance issues makes "economic sense", according to former Sebi chief U K Sinha.

"It makes economic sense for corporates to get into the areas of environment, social and governance issues," Sinha said at a CSR Summit and Awards function here.

According to him, after the sustainable development goals framed by the UN, there was an adoption of the UN principles of responsible investment.

"If we can take the emerging market index as 105, the return of the ESG index is 155, so now it makes business sense, to show your concern.

The event was organised by industry body FICCI.

Business Standard | Dec 01, 2017

'Cos getting into social issues makes economic sense'

Corporates getting into the areas of environment, social and governance issues makes "economic sense", according to former Sebi chief U K Sinha.

"It makes economic sense for corporates to get into the areas of environment, social and governance issues," Sinha said at a CSR Summit and Awards function here.

According to him, after the sustainable development goals framed by the UN, there was an adoption of the UN principles of responsible investment.

"If we can take the emerging market index as 105, the return of the ESG index is 155, so now it makes business sense, to show your concern.

The event was organised by industry body FICCI.

India | Dec 01, 2017

'Cos getting into social issues makes economic sense'

Corporates getting into the areas of environment, social and governance issues makes “economic sense”, according to former Sebi chief U K Sinha.

“It makes economic sense for corporates to get into the areas of environment, social and governance issues,” Sinha said at a CSR Summit and Awards function here.

According to him, after the sustainable development goals framed by the UN, there was an adoption of the UN principles of responsible investment.

“If we can take the emerging market index as 105, the return of the ESG index is 155, so now it makes business sense, to show your concern.

The event was organised by industry body FICCI.

Minister of State for Corporate Affairs P P Chaudhary, Charge D’ Affairs, Embassy of the Republic of Korea Lee Hai Kwang and FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre of Excellence Chairperson Rajashree Birla, among others, were present.

Financial Express | Dec 01, 2017

Companies getting into social issues makes economic sense, says former Sebi chief UK Sinha

Corporates getting into the areas of environment, social and governance issues makes “economic sense”, according to former Sebi chief U K Sinha. Sinha, who retired as chairman of Sebi earlier this year, also said that in order to compete with the best corporates in the world, Indian companies have to actively participate and imbibe in their culture concerns for the environment, concern for social issues. “It makes economic sense for corporates to get into the areas of environment, social and governance issues,” Sinha said at a CSR Summit and Awards function here. According to him, after the sustainable development goals framed by the UN, there was an adoption of the UN principles of responsible investment.

The MSCI ESG indices are designed to support common approaches to environmental, social and governance investing, and help institutional investors more effectively benchmark to ESG investment performance, among others. The event was organised by industry body Ficci. Minister of State for Corporate Affairs P P Chaudhary, Charge D’ Affairs, Embassy of the Republic of Korea Lee Hai Kwang and FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre of Excellence Chairperson Rajashree Birla, among others, were present.

Business Standard | Dec 01, 2017

Youth engagement necessary for socio economic empowerment: P.P. Chaudhary

The government believes that engaging young people in policy dialogues and decision making processes are chief determinants in the socio-economic empowerment of youth, said P. P. Chaudhary, Minister of State for Corporate Affairs, Law and Justice at the 16th FICCI CSR Summit and Awards in New Delhi on Thursday.

"While most of the developed countries face the risk of an ageing work force, India has a very favourable demographic profile and government believes that engaging young people in policy dialogues and decision making processes are chief determinants in the socio-economic empowerment of the youth," he said.

The minister also said that business chambers like FICCI hold a prime force in this movement, bringing all relevant stakeholders together to one platform for shared learning, cooperation and for creating a conducive environment for empowerment of the youth.

Chaudhary also praised the Indian industry for not only providing expertise and management skills, but also investing in capacity building of youth and designing market oriented skills through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes,.

Companies through their CSR initiatives are working on various issues plaguing today's youth such as health, water, environment, drug abuse, livelihood , the Minister added.

Seven companies were awarded at the prestigious 16th FICCI CSR Awards on Thursday in New Delhi. The awards were judged by an eminent jury chaired by former SEBI Chairman, U. K. Sinha and involved various sectors like women empowerment, education, skills, livelihood, health, sanitation etc.

webindia123 | Dec 01, 2017

Youth engagement necessary for socio economic empowerment: P.P. Chaudhary

Companies through their CSR initiatives are working on various issues plaguing today's youth such as health, water, environment, drug abuse, livelihood , the Minister added.

ABP Live | Dec 01, 2017

Youth engagement necessary for socio economic empowerment: P.P. Chaudhary

Companies through their CSR initiatives are working on various issues plaguing today's youth such as health, water, environment, drug abuse, livelihood , the Minister added.

ANI | Dec 01, 2017

Youth engagement necessary for socio economic empowerment: P.P. Chaudhary

Companies through their CSR initiatives are working on various issues plaguing today's youth such as health, water, environment, drug abuse, livelihood , the Minister added.

India Today | Dec 01, 2017

Cos getting into social issues makes economic sense

Corporates getting into the areas of environment, social and governance issues makes "economic sense", according to former Sebi chief U K Sinha.

"It makes economic sense for corporates to get into the areas of environment, social and governance issues," Sinha said at a CSR Summit and Awards function here.

According to him, after the sustainable development goals framed by the UN, there was an adoption of the UN principles of responsible investment. "In the beginning there were largely 100 investors who were member of this, today their number has shot up to more than 1,700. They are now looking at indices where issues like how the environmental concern is addressed by the corporates," he noted. While citing the example of Morgan Stanley environment social and governance emerging market index, Sinha said between 2008-09 and today, share prices of all these indices are more than other indices.

"If we can take the emerging market index as 105, the return of the ESG index is 155, so now it makes business sense, to show your concern.

Minister of State for Corporate Affairs P P Chaudhary, Charge D Affairs, Embassy of the Republic of Korea Lee Hai Kwang and FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre of Excellence Chairperson Rajashree Birla, among others, were present.

Absolute India | Dec 01, 2017

Seven companies win the FICCI CSR Awards 2017

Seven companies were awarded the 16th FICCI CSR Awards in New Delhi at the FICCI CSR Summit and Awards. An eminent jury, chaired by former SEBI Chairman, Mr. U. K. Sinha determined the top awardees. This year the theme was 'CSR: Investing in Generation Next'. CEOs, CSR Heads, NGO Heads, Government officials and Academia attend the summit and award.

P. P. Chaudhary, Minister of State for Corporate Affairs, Law & Justice, Government of India inaugurated the conference and said, "while most of the developed countries face the risk of an ageing work force, India has a very favourable demographic profile and Government believes that engaging young people in policy dialogues and decision making processes are chief determinants in the socio-economic empowerment of the youth. Business chambers like FICCI hold a prime force in this movement, bringing all relevant stakeholders together to one platform for shared learning, cooperation and for creating a conducive environment for empowerment of youth".

Further adding to it, he said "India Inc. is not only providing expertise and management skills but also through their CSR programmes, investing in capacity building of youth and designing market oriented skills. Companies through their CSR initiatives are working on various issues plaguing today's youth such as health, water, environment, drug abuse, livelihood etc".

Rajashree Birla, Chairperson, FICCI Aditya Birla CSR Centre of Excellence shared that from over 20% BPL Indians, India as a nation could be free from poverty over next 5 years.

The highlight of the conference was the 7th Korea-India CSR Forum. The forum covered dialogue exchange between Korean Companies and Ministry of Corporate Affairs about ground realities of CSR implementation and showcase of how the Korean Companies in India are promoting, supporting and leveraging the youth initiatives in India through CSR.

Winners of 16th FICCI CSR Awards

Category 1- Women Empowerment

Private sector Companies with turnover of INR 3001 Crores per annum and above

Axis Bank Limited

Category 2- Education, Skill Development and Livelihood

Public Sector Companies (PSUs)

Gail India Limited

Private sector Companies with turnover of INR 3001 Crores per annum and above

SRF Limited

Private sector Companies with turnover between INR 201 Crores - INR 3000 Crores per annum

Tech Mahindra Limited

Category 4 - Health, Water and Sanitation

Private sector Companies with turnover of INR 3001 Crores per annum and above

Larsen & Toubro Limited

Category 6 - Exemplary Innovation

National Stock Exchange of India Limited

Category 8: Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Elin Appliances Private Limited

Special Jury Commendation

Category 1- Women Empowerment

Private sector Companies with turnover of INR 3001 Crores per annum and above

Nuvoco Vistas Corp Limited

Category 2- Education, Skill Development and Livelihood

Private sector Companies with turnover of INR 3001 Crores per annum and above

Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemicals Corporation Limited

Category 4 - Health, Water and Sanitation

Private sector Companies with turnover between INR 201 Crores - INR 3000 Crores per annum

Sterlite Technologies Limited

Business Standard | Jun 04, 2017

NCPCR calls for CSR for child welfare

Child focused corporate social responsibility (CSR) is an investment of the corporates and PSUs toward sustainable development and welfare of children, a NCPCR member said today.

"Child focused CSR is an investment for sustainable development including the health and welfare of children," National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) member Priyank Kanoongo told reporters here.

A day-long multi-stakeholders regional convention of north eastern states focusing on CSR participation in strengthening child welfare, child education mechanism in the north eastern region will be organised tomorrow to chalk out a road map for companies to invest for child welfare in various states of the region.

The convention is being organised by NCPCR in partnership with the State Child Protection Society, Assam government's Social Welfare Department and supported by CII, FICCI and ASSOCHAM.

"The convention will provide a platform to build understanding between the NGOs/civil society organisations working at the grass root level and welfare schemes of state governments, which can be leveraged through CSR activities," Kanoongo said.

Leading PSUs and corporate houses, government departments like social welfare and education of eight NE states, NGOs/CSOs working in the field of child welfare, child well being and child education along with the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights of the eight NE states will also participate in the convention.

Financial Express | Jun 04, 2017

NCPCR calls for Corporate Social Responsibility to promote child welfare

Child focused corporate social responsibility (CSR) is an investment of the corporates and PSUs toward sustainable development and welfare of children, a NCPCR member said today. “Child focused CSR is an investment for sustainable development including the health and welfare of children,” National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) member Priyank Kanoongo told reporters here. A day-long multi-stakeholders regional convention of north eastern states focusing on CSR participation in strengthening child welfare, child education mechanism in the north eastern region will be organised tomorrow to chalk out a road map for companies to invest for child welfare in various states of the region.

The convention is being organised by NCPCR in partnership with the State Child Protection Society, Assam government’s Social Welfare Department and supported by CII, FICCI and ASSOCHAM.”The convention will provide a platform to build understanding between the NGOs/civil society organisations working at the grass root level and welfare schemes of state governments, which can be leveraged through CSR activities,” Kanoongo said.

Hindustan Times | Apr 23, 2017

Corporate donations to Swachh Kosh drying up

Corporate and private donations towards Swachh Bharat Kosh (SBK), a corpus set up and controlled by the government to mobilise funds for building toilets across the country, have dwindled since the drive began in 2014.

State-owned public sector units (PSU), private businesses, and philanthropic individuals contributed ₹245 crore to the pool in the 2016-17 financial year.

But the bulk of the money, ₹212 crore, came from PSUs such as Power Finance Corporation, Rural Electrification Corporation, and the Power Grid. Big corporate names were missing from the donor list while small, lesserknown private companies, charitable organisations, and individuals contributed ₹33 crore.

This is a far cry from the first two years when top business houses — Bajaj, Larsen and Toubro, Fidelity Business, Nestle, ITC, GE, and Merrill Lynch — were among the prominent donors. The corpus got ₹253 crore in 2015-16 and ₹159.61 crore was generated in the launch year.

The fading private magnanimity towards the government’s signature campaign to build toilets and free the country of open defement, cation is not surprising since most business houses run their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes.

A Bajaj Allianz General Insurance executive said the company contributed in the first year to give the project the initial push. Thereafter, it followed its existing CSR programmes. “We participate in a diverse range of CSR activities every year...These efforts can range from donating money and actively working for various causes. In line with this vision, we have participated in the government’s Swacch Bharat Yojana programme in 2014,” a company spokesperson said.

Nestle, as part of its CSR programme, has its sanitation programme providing drinking water and building toilets.

“We continue to engage with stakeholders, including farmers, experts, NGOs and the govern- and take up activities important for society. Our CSR initiatives are based on national priorities, including Swachh Bharat,” said a Nestle India spokesperson.

The dwindling donations could be attributed to a clause that says private entities contributing less than ₹10 crore to the corpus don’t have the power to influence or decide where and how the money should be spent.

Naina Lal Kidwai, a former FICCI president and chair of India Sanitation Coalition, said corporate organisations like to run their own CSR programmes where they have a direct say in the execution of projects.

“This ensures that a project for which money is spent is sustainable. Corporates like L&T are directly engaged in implementing sanitation projects in states such as Rajasthan. In government-run corpuses, they do not have much of a say. This deters many of them from coming forward.”

Besides, the government charges a Swachh Bharat cess on all taxable services to fund its programme. “One of the reasons for the tepid response can be the feeling that individuals are already paying a Swachh cess. So why contribute again?” a government official said.

Hindustan Times | Aug 01, 2016

Swachh Bharat corpus drying as corporates not chipping in

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for making India clean by 2019 does not seem to have inspired corporates and individual donors to loosen their purse strings.

A special corpus set up by the government two years ago to mobilize funds for the Swachh Bharat Mission is drying up owing to lukewarm response from potential donors comprising public and private companies besides philanthropists.

Set up in September 2014, the Swachh Bharat Kosh (SBK) has so far received Rs 412 crore which includes interest. Of this, the Union finance ministry that administers the fund has already sanctioned Rs 382 crore to different states for implementing sanitation projects.

With corporate and PSUs shying away from making contributions, the corpus is presently left with just `30 crore. The paltry fund has set alarm bells ringing in the government with the governing council of SBK, headed by expenditure secretary, recently holding a meeting with corporate and PSUs to impress upon them to donate more generously.

Swachh Bharat Mission that aims to make urban and rural areas clean and open defecation free has a total outlay of Rs 1.96 crore till 2019, to be shared by the Centre, states and the private sector.

Industry insiders say corporate houses tend to spend CSR money on initiatives they patronize directly.

Veteran banker Naina Lal Kidwai, who heads the India Sanitation Coalition that FICCI under her founded 13 months ago, said that corporate houses “by and large” like to run CSR programmes on behalf of themselves.

“They are reluctant to donate to a fund where they do not have control over where the money is going. Corporates are skeptical of large central-run corpuses,” Kidwai added.

The total contribution from the private sector so far is a measly Rs 125 crore. One of the biggest donor is Larsen & Toubro with Rs 60 crore contribution followed by the Bajaj group with Rs 20 crore.

Spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi’s organization has donated Rs 100 crore.

Over two dozen Public Sector Undertakings have donated Rs 101 crore. General Insurance Corporation takes the lead among PSUs with a donation of Rs 15 crore. Individual donors have contributed Rs 6.27 lakh.

The government, too, has initiated ways to resolve the crisis. The ministry of drinking water and sanitation, which is implementing the program in rural areas has prepared a framework to engage the private sector.

Deccan Herald | Aug 01, 2016

Haryana to encourage corporates to fund school projects

Companies will now be encouraged to fund government school projects in Haryana as part of the state government’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.

A co-ordination committee has been formed as part of a measure aimed at filling the funding gap in the sector and improving the quality of education, state Education Minister Ram Bilas Sharma said here on Sunday.

He said the state was striving to uplift Education Development Indicators.

“Fortunately, Haryana has a large number of reputed corporate houses and the government is keen to attract Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, directly or indirectly, apart from the state budget allocated for education, so as to inject quality in education system,” Sharma said.

The government has framed a state-level CSR Co-ordination Committee in education with an aim to fill funding gaps in the government school projects and to avoid the duplication in ongoing projects, he said in a statement.

The committee would also identify and attend to priority area components, supplementing government activities without replacing them and forming action plans, Sharma said.

“It would co-ordinate and channelise the efforts to achieve goals and facilitate CSR works through implementing agencies like the NGOs and Corporates, monitor and review CSR activities implemented by various agencies, handhold, co-ordinate, facilitate and monitor the impact on Education Development Index (EDI) of the state or district and share best practices in CSR among corporates,” he said.

There would be three separate committees so as to evolve a more scientific and professional approach in the execution of CSR activities effectively. These are State Level Steering Committee in Education, Core Committee which would be Sub-Committee of State Level Steering Committee and District Level Steering Committee in Education, Sharma said.

State Level Steering Committee (SLSC) will have Additional Chief Secretary, Secondary Education as its chairperson. Other members include Director Secondary Education, Director Elementary Education, representative of Corporate houses and Industries to be decided

CSR

FICCI's Engagement

Team Leader

Uma S Seth

Timeline

Jul, 2023

Power of Allyship in Advancing Women Leadership

May, 2023

IDEATE 2023Foundational & Lifecycle Interventions to EMPOWER

Mar, 2023

Stakeholder Discussion and Dissemination Workshop on Empowerment of Small & Marginalized Farmers in Andhra Pradesh(Grantees and Partners)

Workshop on Strengthening Agri Systems: The Road To Supporting Smallholder Farmers and Boosting Incomes postponed

Jan, 2023

Women Entrepreneurs: Shaping The Future of India

Dec, 2022

FICCI CSR Summit, Awards, Exhibition and Master Class 2022

Nov, 2022

IDEATE 2022Paradigm shift in Education Landscape- Blended Pedagogy

Oct, 2022

Virtual Training on Project Management Lifecycle For Developmental Projects (2nd Batch)

Sep, 2022

Virtual Training Program: Accelerate For Good

Aug, 2022

Virtual Training on Project Management Lifecycle for Developmental Projects

Mar, 2022

CSR Course on Climate Change, Agriculture & Water Conservation

Fireside Chat with Adwaita Nayar

Women in Tech: Charging New Frontiers, Breaking Gender Stereotypes

Nov, 2021

Virtual Award Presentation Ceremony for 19th FICCI CSR Awards

Webinar on Nutrition Reimagined - Going the Local Way

Apr, 2021

Webinar on Social Enterprise: Creating Conducive Eco-System

Jul, 2020

18th FICCI - CSR Awards Presentation Ceremony

Jun, 2020

Launch of FICCI-FLO Empowering the Greater 50%

May, 2020

Virtual Master Class on 6 Lessons for Modern Corporates to Ace their Social Responsibility on Digital Media

COVID-19 and LGBTQ+ people's rights: Where lies the gap?

D&I Webinar on COVID-19: Road Ahead for Persons with Disabilities

Technology for COVID Relief, Response and Rehabilitation

Apr, 2020

D&I Webinar on COVID-19: Road Ahead for PWDs

Webinar on Responding to the impact of Covid-19 on Women in Supply Chains

Webinar on Mental Health During Pandemics

Mar, 2020

FICCI CSR Summit and Awards

Dec, 2019

2 Days Training Program on Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) for Optimising CSR Health Projects: Outcomes and Impact

Oct, 2019

Conference on Re-thinking Mental Health

Sep, 2019

Training on Strategic Development Communication for CSR and Development Projects

Aug, 2019

Strengthening Agri Systems: Road to Supporting Smallholder Famers & Boosting Incomes

Feb, 2019

FICCI CSR Summit and Awards

Dec, 2018

8th India-Korea CSR Forum

Nov, 2018

FICCI Celebrates 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

Oct, 2018

National Conference: Speak Up - National Mental Health Movement

Aug, 2018

2 Days Training Program on Result Based Program Management

Jun, 2018

Call for applications for 17th FICCI CSR award 2018

May, 2018

Conference on Promoting Scientific interventions for Transforming India through CSR

2 Day Training on Social Return on Investment (SROI) of CSR Projects & Programs

Apr, 2018

Training Program on Technology for Impactful CSR Project Management

Mar, 2018

Conference on Sharing of Best Practices: Improving Maternal, New Born and Child Health through CSR

Feb, 2018

Interactive Session with Mr. Paul A. Netzel, Chairman, The Rotary Foundation

Dec, 2017

Accessibility & Inclusion at Workplace: Sensitization Workshop on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016

Nov, 2017

IDEATE 2023
Foundational & Lifecycle Interventions to EMPOWER

Stakeholder Discussion and Dissemination Workshop on Empowerment of Small & Marginalized Farmers in Andhra Pradesh
(Grantees and Partners)

IDEATE 2022
Paradigm shift in Education Landscape- Blended Pedagogy