RNI No. DELENG/2013/49640 AUGUSTjune 20192020 | VOLUME 78 | ISSUE 86 | `100

www.csrtimes.org ’S NO. 1 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY MAGAZINE

CSRCSR FOR FOR PMPM CARESCARES

FUND | | FUNDCSR TIMES JUNE 2020 1 Atul Sobti Venkat K. Narayana Director General, SCOPE Founder, Kvn Foundation CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 2 from the editor

India Fights COVID Challenge in Letter and Spirit

Harish Chandra e are amidst a pandemic and economic crisis. The severity of it has shaken the human race but has not broken its spirits. CSR Times Wepitomizes that spirit of the human race and has brought out the June ‘Prime Minister’s issue, highlighting the efforts of our leaders, businesses and ordinary citizens of their fight against COVID-19. Citizen Assistance Leading from the front, Prime Minister , realized that the and Relief in country would require considerable resources to fight the virus. A visionary, he Emergency realized that a fund is needed that can work to help the poor and needy quickly. The fund has to be free of rules that delay disbursement than hastening its Situations Fund (PM delivery to the beneficiaries. CARES Fund) was ‘Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations set up as a Fund (PM CARES Fund) was set up as a Charitable Trust. We have made this Charitable Trust. as our cover story of this issue to highlight the vision and mission behind this fund. As a responsible magazine, we believe, that facts have to be told upfront We have made this and analysis later. as our cover story This issue of CSR Times has been brought out for you, overcoming many of this issue to logistics and editorial challenges. It reflects contribution and the commitment of individual people and businesses during COVID-19, which is still challenging us. highlight the vision Over the years, public sector enterprises have silently contributed to the and mission behind society. They are filling up the gaps, to ensure that every section of the society this fund. As a moves along with the progress made by the country. Through their humanitarian responsible efforts, PSUs have attempted to bridge all kinds of divide—social, economic, digital and others. magazine, we Stories of individuals (COVID-Warriors) and KVN, I am confident will be believe, that facts appreciated and applauded by readers across the country. The evil virus will have to be told soon be defeated, and economic revival, with the slew of policy measures taken by the Government to improve all the sectors, has already begun. upfront and This augurs well for our country. Going forward, we are confident that analysis later. more support and commitment will pour in to supplement the efforts of the government. We have already seen the glimpses of that during the first & second quarter of this calendar year. Hope with trust is the biggest strength that humanity has for its survival.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 3 csr times Corona Virus - A Question Mark Vol. 8, Issue 6 (June 2020) oday the corona virus has emerged working hard to deal with this pandemic; RNI No. DELENG/2013/49640 Tas a big question mark in front people are following all the necessary of us. Under the great leadership of instructions, taking precaution while EDITOR Shri Narendra Modi our government understanding the need of the time, Harish Chandra handled this situation in a applauding and facing this situation with courage.

Executive EDITOR way, we all were fighting against it with But now their morale is slowly falling Amit Goenka full strength, and at one point of time because today the way people are it seemed that COVID-19 would soon roaming in the market, not taking it CONSULTING EDITORS M.Rajendran, Prashant Das disappear. seriously, it will become Today a big question impossible to deal with CORRESPONDENTS which has been raised in corona – and here arises Subramanya Shastri (MS) front of us is, will it end a big question mark. I PHOTOGRAPHER soon or will we have to face would like to request our Anurag Nanda it for some more time? I Prime Minister Narendra

DESIGNER believe that the way people Modi to address the B.S. Rawat gave their full support to the nation so that the morale government and obeyed of those who are the real V.P. SALES & MARKETING Rajesh Manglani Narendra Modi ji, which fighters in this battle as was in the interest of the Sunil Shastri well as of the people gets GM MARKETING Former Member of people and followed it, but Parliament (Rajya Sabha), a boost. On the other Manoj Sandal now Unlock 1.0 started Former Cabinet Minister hand I would appeal to Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, MANAGER, EVENTS & with little relaxation. Due Chief Patron, those people who are not BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT to this people are thinking Indian Achievers Forum taking Corona seriously, Manya Singh that this is not a big problem please do not take it PRODUCTION MANAGER and they can face it. Today, the way lightly. It is the duty of every Indian as Rahul Thakur coronavirus cases are increasing, the a responsible citizen of the country that number of infected people is increasing we fight against it with full force, and CIRCULATION HEAD Pankaj Singh drastically. Till now more than 42 lakh do all the efforts to save our country. I people have gone through the test and feel that it’s not far away that once again LEGAL ADVISOR around 3 lakh people have been affected we will start living in a similar way as Suman Dobal by this virus, although more than one earlier and will meet people freely and ADVISORS lakh people have been cured. If we look the work will start in a smooth manner. Ravi Shankar, Girish Kumar, into it, the recovery rate is more than In the end, I again appeal to the people B.S. Dhillon, Newton Mishra 45 percent and at the same time the of the country, if it is not important, PRINTED & PUBLISHED BY number of people who died due to this then do not leave the house and protect Harish Chandra for First Step Foundation pandemic is about three percent, till date yourself and your family.

PUBLISHED AT 8 thousand people have died. I would 312, Vardhman Sunrize Plaza, say that state governments are also Jai Jawan Jai Kisaan Vasundhara Enclave, Delhi-110096 Phone: 011-43085920 F E E D B A C K EDITORIAL MENTOR [email protected] www.linkedin.com/in/csrtimesmag SIDHARTH MISHRA www.facebook.com/csrtimesmag www.csrtimes.org www.twitter.com/csrtimesmag

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CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 4 cover story 06 PM CARES FUND U E 6 U ME 8 | ISS csr times j u ne 2020 | VOL content

HEALTH csr initiative education Making the right moves Leading From The Front Apeejay’s gift of knowledge 23 for the right cause 32 To Serve The Nation 44 amidst COVID-19 csr update health The man with a mission: “To WHO plays a significant feed the hungry and needy 46 role in the fight to defeat 24 daily wage earners and the COVID-19 underprivileged children”

LEADERSHIP Standing out amidst the 34 pandemic and economic chaos CPSEs show the way COVID WARRIOrs event psu leaders The warriors who served The 51st Indian Achievers Serving the country and citizen and country to Forum (IAF) awards were setting new benchmarks 36 48 31 in Banking and Insurance fight COVID-19 given at the summit ... ^loZ f’k{kk] loZ ÅtkZ] loZ ldkjkRed lksp*

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 5 COVER STORY PM CARES FUND

CSR TIMES | AUGUST 2019 | 6 opinion

‘Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund’ (PM CARES Fund)’ has been set up to provide support relief or assistance of any kind relating to a public health emergency or any other type of emergency, calamity or distress, either human- made or natural, including the creation or up-gradation of healthcare or pharmaceutical facilities, other necessary infrastructure, funding relevant research or any other type of support.

M.Rajendran

lobally and in India too, the also qualify to be counted as Corporate the prime minister said there is nothing pandemic of COVID-19 has Social Responsibility (CSR) expenditure big or little and that every contribution Gposed serious challenges for under the Companies Act, 2013. PM mattered and it reflects our collective the health and economic security of CARES Fund has also got exemption resolve to defeat Covid-19. People from billions of people. In India, the spread under the FCRA, and a separate all sections of society have come forward of coronavirus threatens to impact account for receiving foreign donations to donate to the Fund irrespective of the social and economic stability. has been opened to accept donations whether it is big or meagre. Among various measures taken by the and contributions from individuals Using the social media platform, PM government, for a quick decision and and organizations based in foreign reached out to many people in India and disbursal, Prime Minister set a new countries. abroad.“It is my appeal to my fellow fund-‘PM Cares Fund,’ that aims to help However, contributions flowing out Indians, Kindly contribute to the PM- the millions of people impacted by the of budgetary sources of Government CARES Fund. This Fund will also cater COVID-19 virus. Organizations and the Public Sector to similar distressing situations if they Undertakings are not accepted under occur in the times ahead.The PM-CARES The Board of Trustee PM CARES Fund. Formal contribution Fund accepts micro-donations too. It A Board of Trustees will help to extend receipts can be downloaded from the will strengthen disaster management relief to the affected population. It will PM CARES Portal after a successful capacities and encourage research on also evaluate and provide financial transaction. PM CARES Fund provides protecting citizens. Let us leave no assistance, in the form of grants of assistance and relief in India. Hence, stone unturned to make India healthier payments of money. contributions wherein the donor intends and more prosperous for our future donations for the foreign citizens/ generations,” PM tweeted on March 28. The Nature of PMCF calamities abroad are not accepted in the The clarion call given by Prime The Fund consists entirely of voluntary Fund. Minister evoked strong support within contributions from individuals / a week more than Rs.6500 crore came organizations and does not get any Appreciating the gesture into the Fund and at the time of going to budgetary support. Donations to PM Prime Minister Narendra Modi had print, it was estimated to have crossed CARES Fund would qualify for 80G appreciated the spirit of the countrymen more than Rs.10,000 crore. It is a benefits for 100% exemption under the for donating voluntarily in times of crisis. positive gesture from positive people Income Tax Act, 1961. In response to a tweet of a donor who to a positive call amidst negative Donations to PM CARES Fund will donated Rs.501 to PM CARES FUND, COVID-19.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 7 COVER STORY

Frequently Asked Questions on PM CARES FUND Q.1 What is PM CARES Fund? donation can be made to PM CARES Fund? transaction would be updated based on the statement Keeping in mind the need for having a dedicated national Contributions can be made by following modes:- received from the concerned banks. The receipts can be fund with the primary objective of dealing with any kind Net Banking (SBI and other commercial Banks) generated only after this. This might take at least 30days. of emergency or distress situation, like posed by the Card Payments – SBI ATM-cum-Debit Card, Other Bank If your transaction is by Cheque the transaction would COVID-19 pandemic, and to provide relief to the affected, Debit Cards, Credit Card, Prepaid Card, Foreign Card be updated from the bank to PM CARES. However, the a public charitable trust under the name of ‘Prime Minister’s Other Payment mode: SBI Branch, NEFT/RTGS payee details would be updated only if the cheque for Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund Contributions can also be made online through theportal PM CARES is presented in the same bank. If the cheque (PM CARES Fund)’ has been set up. of PMO i.e. pmindia.gov.in as well as through the portals is presented in another bank, the payee details would not be updated by the bank. In such cases, the receipt Q.2 Who are the Trustees of the PM CARES Fund? of the collection banks.. can be obtained only by updating your Name, email ID, The Prime Minister is Chairperson (ex-officio) of the Fund Further, cheque or demand draft drawn in favour of ‘PM Amount etc. with cheque number and amount in the and Minister of Defence, Minister of Home Affairs and CARES Fund’ can be sent to Under Secretary (Funds), PMO, receipt generator module. The module will match the Minister of Finance, are ex-officio South Block, New Delhi, Pin -110011 along with Name, cheque number and amount and issue the receipt. This Trustees of the Fund. The Chairperson of the Board of Address, Mobile No. and E-mail ID of the donor. might take at least 30days. Trustees (Prime Minister) of PM CARES Fund has the Q.6 Are contributions towards the PM CARES Fund power to nominate three trustees to the Board who shall exempted from Income Tax? Q.12 Is there any transaction charge for online be eminent persons in the field of research, health, science, Yes, all contributions towards the PM CARES Fund are payment? social work, law, public administration and philanthropy. 100% exempted from Income Tax under Section 80(G) of There is no transaction charge levied by PM CARES Fund However, no such appointment has been made so far. the Income Tax Act, 1961. for online payment. However some banks may levy the All the Trustees of the PM CARES Fund act in a pro bono Q.7 Are contributions towards PM CARES Fund qualify net-banking transaction charges, which may vary from capacity. as CSR expenditure? bank to bank. Q.3 What are the Objectives of the PM CARES Fund Yes, any contribution made to the PM CARES Fund by Q.13 Who is the authority to issue certificate for Trust? any Company or a PSU shall qualify as Corporate Social claiming deductions u/s 80(G) of the Income Tax Act, The primary objectives of the Trust are:- Responsibility (CSR) expenditure as provided under the 1961 in respect of donations made by employees of To undertake and support relief or assistance of any kind Companies Act, 2013. an organisation to the PM CARES Fund? relating to a public health emergency or any other kind Q.8 Does PM CARES Fund have a Permanent Account In respect of such donations, benefit will be admissible of emergency, calamity or distress, either man-made or Number (PAN)? u/s 80(G) of the Income Tax Act, 1961 on the basis of the natural, including the creation or upgradation of healthcare Yes, PM CARES Fund has been allotted a Permanent certificate issued by Drawing and Disbursing Officer [DDO] or pharmaceutical facilities, other necessary infrastructure, Account Number (PAN) AAETP3993P. / Employer in this behalf. funding relevant research or any other type of support. To render financial assistance, provide grants of payments Q.9 Who has the powers to formulate criterions for Q.14 Who audits the PM CARES Fund? of money or take such other steps as may be deemed disbursal of funds held under PM CARES Fund? The PM CARES Fund will be audited by one or more necessary by the Board of Trustees to the affected The Trustees of the PM CARES Fund have powers to qualified independent auditor(s) who will be appointed by population. To undertake any other activity, which is not formulate rules/criterions for carrying out any of the the Trustees. inconsistent with the above Objects. Objectives of the Trust. Q.15 Whether Foreign Donation is accepted in PM Q.4 What type of domestic donation are accepted in Q. 10 How will be the formal donation receipts issued CARES Fund? PM CARES Fund? to the donors? Yes. PM CARES Fund has received exemption from PM CARES Fund accepts voluntary contributions by The donors will be able to download formal donation operation of all provisions of the Foreign Contribution individuals/organizations as well as contributions as part receipts by visiting ‘Print Receipt’ Section of the PM CARES (Regulation) Act, 2010. Foreign Donation is accepted from of CSR from Companies/Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). portal after successful transaction. individuals and organizations based in Foreign countries However, contributions flowing out of budgetary sources of Q. 11 How do I know about the status of my payment through Foreign Credit / Debit Cards and also through Wire the PSUs are not accepted. online? Transfer/SWIFT following the link on Home page of PM If your transaction is done through NEFT/RTGS/IMPS, the CARES Fund portal. Q.5 What are the modes through which domestic

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 8 COVER STORY

People from all walks of life expressed their desire to donate to India’s war against COVID-19. Respecting that spirit, the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund has been constituted. This will go a long way in creating a healthier India.

ONGC CMD Mr Shashi Shanker, in a tweet, said, “I firmly believe, together we will overcome this national crisis.” I have urged all employees to extend support by providing food, raw materials and other essentials to the needy on a personal or community level, with the help of the authority.

NMDC CMD Mr N. Baijendra Kumar (IAS), CMD tweeted, “To deal with the difficult times arising out of COVID 19 in the Country, #NMDC will be donating Rs.150 crore to #PMCARES FUND. It is a small contribution from @nmdclimited for a National Cause on the appeal of @narendramodiji our Hon PM.”

Shri A.K. Singh, CMD, NHPC said, “Our contribution of Rs.50 crore to the PM CARES Fund is another step in our support in the fight against COVID – 19 crisis. NHPC and NHDC continue to maintain power generation across their power stations 24 x 7 and shall help in all possible manner in this current moment of crisis.”

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 9 COVERopinion STORY

We Care...

Thank you... pm ONGC Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda in a series of “Youngsters are at the forefront ONGC Chairman and Managing Director tweet said, I am very much thankful to the of fighting COVID-19. Gratitude to Mr Shashi Shanker in a statement said --I CMDs of these companies for honouring Kavya and Chaitanya. Their firmly believe, together we will overcome my request to support the efforts of gesture is deeply touching.The this national crisis. In response to the Government of India to fight COVID-19 . future of the nation is ensuring Prime Minister’s call to contribute to the the nation’s future. Excellent newly constituted Prime Minister’s Citizen gesture, Sahil, proud of you.” Assistance and Relief in Emergency Railways Situations (PM CARES) Fund, Energy Minister for Railways Shri Piyush Goyal,” “Have been seeing thoughtful Maharatna Oil and Natural Gas Corporation On the call of Prime Minister Narendra Limited (ONGC) has allocated Rs.300 crore Modi, the Indian Railways will contribute messages of young children from its Corporate Social Responsibility Rs.151 crore to the PM-CARES fund.” contributing to PM-CARES. This is (CSR) funds. The ONGC initiative came Mr Goyal and Minister of State for special because they are in attempt to strengthen the national drive to Railways Mr. Suresh Agadi will contribute contributing from their piggy fight against the pandemic of COVID-19. their one month salary along with 13 lakh banks. We yet again see the Furthermore, 30,100 employees of the employees of railways. large-heartedness of young National Oil Company ONGC have India.” voluntarily decided to contribute their two days’ salary – amounting to around Rs.16 Power “Every effort counts, every crore – to the PM CARES fund to support Shri R.K.Singh, the Union Minister of contribution matters. I thank the government in combating this national Power and New & Renewable Energy leading film personalities @ crisis.” has tweeted, “We feel honoured to share MadhuriDixit,@bhumipednekar,@ that the Public Sector Undertakings of ayushmannk,@aliaa08, @ the Ministry of Power & MNRE have karanjohar for supporting Department of Fertilizers decided to contribute Rs.925 crore to the PM-CARES. Department of Fertilizers, Ministry PM- CARES fund with Rs.445 crore being of Chemicals and Fertilizers have deposited on 31st March and remaining donated more than Rs.27 crore to Prime in the first week of April.”The amount By being proactive and taking Minister’s Citizen Assistance and relief of Rs.925 crore includes contribution of right precautions we have to in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) Rs.905 crore from PSUs under Ministry overcome COVID-19. fund to fight COVID-19 pandemic. Union of Power and contribution of Rs.20 crore #IndiaFightsCorona” Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers From PSUs under MNRE.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 10

COVER STORY PM CARES FUND THE PEOPLE, PERSONALITIES AND INDUSTRY RESPOND WITH HEART AND KIND

India witnessed the most fantastic response to help fight COVID-19 from individuals, businesspersons, industry and professionals. The contribution they made is a great help to support the nation in the hour of need. Millions of small and significant contribution flowed into PM CARES Fund, CSR Times highlights a few for the country to applaud and appreciate.

As a part of steps to make more re- Tata Sons and Tata Trusts contrib- Wipro Ltd, Wipro Enterprises sources available for Covid-19 relief uted Rs.1,500 crore towards the PM Ltd and Azim Premji Foundation measures, the President of India, Shri CARES fund. The statement released have together committed Rs.1,125 Ram Nath Kovind, after contributing on read, “We appreciate the crore towards tackling crisis one month’s salary to the PM-CARES PM CARES fund initiative to address arising from the COVID-19 Fund in March, has decided to forego the unprecedented effects of CO- pandemic outbreak in India. 30 per cent of his salary for a year. The VID-19. As always, we remain fully “These resources will help enable President has given instructions to the committed and united in support of the the dedicated medical and service Rashtrapati Bhavan to set an exam- nation.” Tata Trusts’ contribution will fraternity in the front-line of the ple by economising the expenditure, be Rs.500 crore of the total donation. battle against the pandemic and in making optimal usage of resources, “The COVID 19 crisis is one of the mitigating its wide-ranging human and dovetailing the saved money to toughest challenges we will face as a impact, particularly on the most combat Covid-19 and mitigate the race... At this moment, the need of the disadvantaged of our society,” people’s economic plight. hour is greater than any other time.” Wipro said in a statement.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 12 COVER STORY

Reliance Industries led by dynamic I’m grateful to the Adani Parivaar, Radhakishan Damani, donated business leader Mukesh Ambani do- our workforce in India for contributing Rs.100 crore to PM Cares Fund to nated Rs.500 crore to the Prime Min- about Rs.4 crore for the battle fight against Covid-19 pandemic. ister Narendra Modi’s PM-CARES against #COVID2019. It is because He is the promoter of D-Mart retail Fund on top of the multi-crore initia- of the solidarity demonstrated by chain operator Avenue Supermarts. tive he had announced to fight the CO- this workforce of more than 17,000 “Our Promoter, Radhakishan VID-19 crisis. “The need of the hour is people that the Adani Foundation Damani through his group company also for us to support our marginalized could add another Rs.4 crore, Bright Star Investments Private Ltd and daily wage communities. Through collectively contributing another donated Rs.100 crore towards the PM our meal distribution programme, we Rs.8 crore towards COVID-19 relief CARES Fund and a further Rs.55 aim to feed lakhs of people daily across projects in India, said Gautam Adani crore to various state relief funds,” the country,” added Nita Ambani. in his Linked in Article. the company statement said.

Actor announced Anushka and I are pledging our Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev announced a donation of Rs.25 crore to Prime support towards PM-CARES Fund & that herbal products company Patanjali Minister Narendra Modi’s PM- the CM’s Relief Fund (Ms). Our heart would contribute Rs.25 crore to Prime CARES Fund . He later tweeted “This are breaking looking at the suffering of Minister Narendra Modi’s PM CARES is that time when all that matters in so many & we hope our contribution, Fund. Prime Minister’s Citizen the lives of our people. And we need in some way, helps easing the pain of Assistance and Relief in Emergency to do anything and everything it our fellow citizens #IndiaFightsCorona. Situations Fund is a public charitable takes. I pledge to contribute Rs.25 Anushka Sharma took to social media trust set up by PM Modi in the wake crore from my savings to Narendra to announce that the actress and her of the coronavirus outbreak. Patanjali Modi Ji’s PM-CARES Fund. Let’s cricketer husband Virat Kohli have Ayurved Limited produces quality save lives, Jaan hai toh jahaan hai.” contributed towards PM-CARES Fund. Herbomineral preparations.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 13 COVER STORY

PM CARES FUND GETS SUPPORT FROM Public Sector Enterprises and Corporate Responding to the clarion call given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 50 big and small Public Sector Units and Corporate open up their heart and purse to help the country fight the pandemic COVID-19, effectively. Each contribution has been applauded by the Prime Minister and appreciated by people of India.

Indian Oil Corporation contributed ONGC has allocated Rs.300 crore to Rs. 225 crore to Prime Minister’s Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance Coal India Ltd contributed Rs.221 Citizen Assistance and Relief in and Relief in Emergency Situations crore the PMCares Fund. Coal India Emergency Situations (PM CARES) (PM CARES) Fund. Maharatna Limited (CIL) the state-owned coal Fund. IndianOil, a diversified, ONGC is the largest crude oil and mining corporate came into being integrated energy major with presence natural gas company in India, in November 1975. With a modest in almost all the streams of oil, gas, contributing around 75 per cent to production of 79 Million Tonnes petrochemicals and alternative energy Indian domestic production. Crude (MTs) at the year of its inception sources; a world of high-calibre oil is the raw material used by CIL, today is the single largest coal people, state-of-the-art technologies downstream companies like IOC, producer in the world and one of and cutting-edge R&D; a world of BPCL, and HPCL (a subsidiary the largest corporate employer. best practices, quality-consciousness of ONGC) to produce petroleum Operating through 83 mining areas and transparency; and a world where products like Petrol, Diesel, and spread over eight (8) provincial energy in all its forms is tapped most Kerosene, Naphtha, and Cooking states of India. responsibly and delivered to the Gas-LPG. consumers most affordably.

Oil India Limited (OIL) contributed Rs.38 crore to PM CARES FUND. BPCL and its employees contributed OIL is a premier Indian National Oil SAIL: The major steel hands with Rs.175 crore towards PM’S Citizen Company engaged in the business the Nation in its fight against the Assistance and Relief in Emergency of exploration, development and COVID-19 by contributing Rs.30 Situations (PM-CARES Fund).BPCL production of crude oil and natural crore to the PM CARES Fund and the employees contributed Rs.4.27 crore gas, transportation of crude oil and employees helped with a day’s salary by allowing the company to encash production of LPG. OIL also provides of Rs.9 crore along with this, Mr Anil their Privileged/ Earned Leaves. various E&P related services and Kumar Chaudhary, Chairman of the holds 26% equity in Numaligarh Company said. Refinery Limited.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 14 COVER STORY

BHEL and its employees contributed POWERGRID has contributed Power Finance Corporation Ltd. Rs.15.72 crore to Prime Minister’s Rs.200 crore to Prime Minister’s (PFC) has contributed Rs.200 crore Citizen Assistance and Relief Citizen Assistance and Relief to the PM-CARES Fund to support in Emergency Situations Fund. in Emergency Situations (PM the battle against COVID-19. PFC Leveraging BHEL’s enviable strengths, CARES). POWERGRID employees is under the administrative control glorious past and contribution towards are also contributing a part of their of the Ministry of Power. PFC was building, the company has put together salary towards the cause. Power conferred the title of a ‘Navratna a series of initiatives focusing on Grid Corporation of India Limited CPSE’ in June 2007 and was classified sustaining growth and profit, asserting (POWERGRID), is an Indian state- as an Infrastructure Finance Company leadership in core business sectors, owned electric utility company by the RBI on 28th July 2010. PFC developing people, enhancing digital headquartered in Gurugram, India. plays a crucial role in the rise of India capabilities and building potentials in POWERGRID transmits about 50% as a global player. Increasingly, a new and diversified businesses as well of the total power generated in India country’s development is gauged by as technologies for sustained growth. on its transmission network. measuring its energy usage.

Numaligarh Refineries Ltd: GAIL and its employees have NRL, was set up at Numaligarh in contributed Rs.53.8 crore to the Housing & Urban Development the district of Golaghat (Assam) Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance Corporation Ltd. has contributed in accordance with the provisions and Relief in Emergency Situations Rs.50 crore from CSR funds and made in the historic Assam Accord Fund (PM CARES Fund). Of this, Rs.28 crore from the voluntary signed on 15th August 1985, has been Rs.50 crore was contributed by the contribution of one day salary by conceived as a vehicle for the speedy Company from its Corporate Social employees to PM-CARES Fund, industrial and economic development Responsibility (CSR) fund while for promoting healthcare and relief of the region. It has contributed Rs.25 GAIL employees chipped in with activities in the wake of COVID-19 crore to PMCF. Rs.3.8 crore from their salaries. pandemic.

Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has contribute Minister’s crore to Prime RailTel has contributed Rs.12.15 Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Minister’s Citizen Assistance and crore to the Prime Minister’s Citizen has contributed an amount of Relief in Emergency Situations (PM Assistance and Relief in Fundency Fund Rs.09.02 crore to PM-CARES Fund CARES) Fund. BEL employees ( PM- CARES fund) from the CSR to aid fight against COVID - 19. contributed one day’s salary fund for FY19-20. Besides, the The aid has been raised through the amounting to Rs.2.71 crores and contribution of Rs.15.5 lakh which is contribution of one day salary by Rs.10 crore from its CSR (Corporate the contribution of one day’s salary of the empBDL’ss of the Company and Social Responsibility) Fund. RailTel employees. BDL’s CSR funds.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 15 COVER STORY COVER STORY

Petronet LNG Ltd has contributed NMDC Limited declared that they HPCL Rs.120 crore to PM CARES Rs.100 crore to the PM-CARES Fund. would contribute Rs.150 crore to Fund, which includes two days PLL being a responsible corporate, the PM-Cares Fund to help in the salaries of its employees. HPCL Mr Prabhat Singh, MD & CEO, fight against COVID -19. This owns & operates two major refineries informed. A JoishareholdingVC) has was announced via a tweet by Mr producing a wide variety of petroleum 50 % shareholding of leading 4 Oil N. Baijendra Kumar, IAS, CMD, fuels & specialities, one in Mumbai & Gas PSUs viz. Oil & Natural Gas NMDC and incorporated in 1958 as (West Coast) of 7.5 Million Metric Corporation Limited (ONGC), Indian a Government of India wholly-owned Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) capacity Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), public enterprise. NMDC is under the and the other in Visakhapatnam, BPCLimited (BPCL) and GAIL administrative control of the Ministry (East Coast) with a capacity of 8.3 (India) Limited each having an equity of Steel, Government of India.Since MMTPA. HPCL also owns and PSU’s 5%, totalling to 50% PSU’s inception involved in the exploration operates the largest Lube Refinery shareholding. It is an independent of a wide range of minerals including in the country producing Lube Base Board managed JVC created for iron ore, copper, rock phosphate, Oils of international standards, with the development of facilities for the limestone, dolomite, gypsum, a capacity of 428 TMT. This Lube import, storage and regasification of bentonite, magnesite, diamond, tin, Refinery accounts for over 40% of Liquefied Natural Gas in the country. tungsten, graphite, beach sands etc. India’s total Lube Base Oil production.

REC Limited has contributed an amount of Rs.150 crore to the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust IREDA: Indian Renewable Energy Relief in Emergency Situations contributed the highest Rs.16.40 crore Development Agency Limited (PM-Cares) Fund to support India’s from corporate social responsibility is a Mini Ratna (Category – I) fight against coronavirus. REC (CSR) to the PM-CARES Fund. Government of India Enterprise came into being in 1969 to articulate JNPT Initially’, it was planned in to under the administrative control of a response to the difficulties of the be a ‘satellite port’ to the Mumbai Port Ministry of New and Renewable nation. During the time of severe with a purpose to decongest traffic. Energy (MNRE). IREDA is a Public drought, the leaders sought to reduce In the pre-reform days, Mumbai port Limited Government Company the dependency of agriculture on faced a lot of issues like shallowness established as a Non-Banking monsoons by energizing agricultural of the channel, congestion on roads Financial Institution in 1987 engaged pump-sets for optimized irrigation. Portmbai city linking the port to in promoting, developing and Its two subsidiaries – RECPDCL its hinterland, as well as labour extending financial assistance for (REC Power Distribution Company problems. However, over the next setting up projects relating to new Limited) and RECTPCL (REC three decades, JNPT systematically and renewable sources of energy and Transmission Project Company evolved its operational efficiency energy efficiency/conservation with Limited) work with REC to provide and improved its capacity handling the motto: “ENERGY FOREVER”. consultancy services in Distribution to transform itself into a Port at par It contributed Rs.15 crore to the PM and Transmission sectors. with global standards. Cares Fund

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HAL has pledged Rs.20 crore from Minister’snd to the PM’s Citizen HDFC Group committed Rs.150 Deendayal Port Trust: It is a seaport Assistance and Relief in Emergency crore to the PM-Cares Fund to in Kutch District of Gujarat state Situations (PM-CARES) Fund. support the government for its relief in western India, near the city of In addition to it, HAL employees and rehabilitation measures towards Gandhidham. Located on the Gulf of have pledged their one day salary the Covid-19 pandemic. “These are Kutch, it is one of the major ports on amounting to Rs.6.25 crore “This is uncertain and trying times for all the west coast. It was constructed in a small step from HAL in supporting of us. The HDFC Group’s support the 1950s as the chief seaport serving the Government’s ongoing efforts in to the PM Cares Fund,” HDFC Ltd western India. It contributed Rs.8 the fight against the novel Coronavirus chairman Deepak Parekh said in a crore to PMCF. pandemic,” says Mr R. Madhavan, statement. CMD-HAL.

SJVN: A Mini Ratna,category-I WAPCOS: A consultancy NALCO: It is a Navratna CPSE and Schedule –‘A’ CPSE under the organisation and public sector under Ministry of Mines. It was administrative control of Ministry undertaking under the Ministry of established on 7th January 1981, with of Power, Govt. of India.SJVN is Water Resources, River Development its registered office at Bhubaneswar’.’ presently implementing power projects and Ganga Rejuvenation of The Company is a group ‘A’ CPSE, in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, theCompanyment of India. The having integrated and diversified Bihar, Maharashtra and Gujarat in company provides consultancy operations in mining, metal and India besides neighbouring countries services in the fields of water power. It donated Rs.5.2 crore to PM viz. Nepal and Bhutan. It contributed resources, power and infrastructure. CARES Fund. Rs.5 crore to PM CARES Fund. It contributed Rs.4crore to PMCF

Paradip Port Trust: Paradip Port SECI: Solar Energy Corporation Kamarajar Port: Located on the is a natural, deep-water port on the of India Ltd is a CPSU under the Coromandel Coast about 24 km East coast of India in Jagatsinghpur administrative control of the Ministry north of Chennai Port, ChPoPortinant district of Odisha. It is situated at the of New and Renewable Energy port India. The port was declared confluence of the Mahanadi river (MNRE), set up on 20th Sept 2011 as a major port under the Indian and the Bay of Bengal. It is located to facilitate the implementation of Ports Act, 1908 in March 1999 and 210 nautical miles south of Kolkata JNNSM and achievement of targets incorporated as Ennore Port Limited and 260 nautical miles north of set therein. It is the only CPSU under the Companies Act, 1956 in Visakhapatnam. It contributed Rs.8 dedicated to the solar energy sector. October 1999. It contributed Rs.4 crore to PMCF. It contributed Rs.5 crore to PMCF. crore to the PM CARES Funds to fight COVID-19

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OIDB: The Oil Industry Engineers India Limited (EIL) Development Board was established contributed Rs.1.13 crore as part of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd (RINL) on 13th January 1975 under the Oil its CSR initiative to Prime Minister’s extended financial assistance of Industry (Development) Act, 1974 to Citizen Assistance & Relief in PM Rs.6.16 crore towards the PM- provide financial assistance for the CARES Fund. EIL is a leading CARES fund to combat the Corona development of Oil Industry. The Oil global engineering consultancy virus. RINL, the corporate entity Industry (Development) Act, 1974 and EPC company. Established in of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant is a was enacted following a successive 1965, EIL provides engineering Navaratna PSE under the Ministry and steep increase in the international consultancy and EPC services of Steel. Visakhapatnam Steel Plant prices of crude oil and petroleum principally focused on the oil & gas fondly called Vizag steel. It is the products since early 1973, when the and petrochemical industries. The first shore-based Integrated Steel need of progressive self-reliance Company has also diversified into Plant in the country and is known in petroleum and petroleum-based sectors like infrastructure, water and for its quality products delighting industrial raw materials assumed waste management, solar & nuclear the customers It is a market leader in more importance. It contributed power and fertilizers to leverage its exceptional products, and it caters to Rs.17 crore, to PMCF. strong technical competencies and the needs of diverse industrial sectors. track record.

Ferro Scrap Nigam Limited NBCC: NBCC and its Subsidiaries has contributed an amount of National Projects Construction contributed Rs.6.04 crore from Rs.5 crore to Prime Minister’s Corporation Ltd (NPCC): It CSR Fund to PM Cares Fund for the Citizen Assistance and Relief contributed about Rs.4 Crore to the fight against COVID19.Founded in Emergency Situation (PM PM Cares Fund that includes 3-day in 1960 as a Govt. of India Civil CARES) Fund, towards relief to salary of every employee, ( Rs.2.06 Engineering Enterprise, NBCC the COVID-19 affected people. crore) and also Rs.2 crore from the with its Headquarter in Delhi, today, FSNL has over the years evolved CSR fund. It was incorporated on holds the status of Navratna CPSE as a pioneer organization in the 9th January 1957 under erstwhile and has emerged as the undisputed field ofCompanymill services. The Ministry of Irrigation (Currently leader in the Construction Sector company at present is working in Ministry of Jal Shakti) to undertake on the back of its capabilities, eight steel plants in the country, Irrigation and Hydel Projects. It also innovative approach, adherence BHEL Haridwar, Rail Wheel acted as a deterrent on price to free to the highest standard of quality, Factory Bangaluru and offers run private construction companies. timely delivery and a dedicated services at a very competitive Subsequently, NPCC diversified in workforce. price with technology comparable other construction fields. to other world leaders.

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Mangalore Refinery and Mangalore Port Trust.: The Cochin Shipyard Ltd: It was Petrochemicals Limited Mangalore Harbour Project was conceived of in the year 1969 (MRPL) contributed Rs.4 crore to set up in the year 1962. The when a team surveyed various the PM Cares Fund that includes maritime works on the project locations in India before selecting 2-day salary of every employee, commenced in 1968. The New Cochin for the launch of the first (Rs.1 crore) and also Rs.3 crore Mangalore Port, the only Major Greenfield Shipbuilding Yard in from the CSR fund. MRPL is a Port of Karnataka, was declared the country.CSL has established schedule ‘A’ Miniratna, Central as the 9th major port on 4th May tie-ups with select specialist Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) 1974. The Port is providing all firms from near-east, far-east, under the Ministry of Petroleum the facilities for handling the South-east, Europe and USA for & Natural Gas. MRPL is located cargo of mega Industries like technology transfer & material in beautiful hilly terrain, north MRPLONGC, OMPL, KIOCL, packages for shipbuilding, of Mangaluru city, in Dakshina TOTAL GAZ, MCF, HPCL, IOC, ship repair, platforms, rigs & Kannada District of Karnataka UPCL. It contributed Rs.4 crore up-gradation of yard facilities. State (India). to PMCF. It contributed Rs.2.5 crore to PMCF.

Torrent Power. In a statement, Torrent The Shipping Corporation of India Chennai Petroleum Corporation said the outbreak of coronavirus has Ltd. (SCI), has contributed Rs.1.27 Limited (CPCL), contributed not only cast the enormous financial crore to PM-CARES fund Starting Rs.1.14 crore to the PM CARES and administrative burden on the out as a marginal Liner shipping Fund. It is a Group company of government but has also very badly Company with just 19 vessels, the Indian Oil Corporation, an Indian affected the poorer sections of society. SCI has today evolved into the state-owned oil and gas corporation It contributed Rs.100 crore to PMCF. largest Indian shipping Company. headquartered in Chennai, India, “It is indeed very comforting that the The SCI also has substantial interests plays the role of a mother industry government under the able leadership in various segments of the shipping supplying feedstocks to the of Narendra Modi is doing its best for trade. SCI’s owned fleet includes neighbouring industries in Manali. the people of the country and is being Bulk carriers, Crude oil tankers, CPCL’s products are marketed globally cited as a shining example Product tankers, Container vessels, through IOCL. CPCL’s products of how dedicated and decisive Passenger-cum-Cargo vessels, are mostly consumed domestically leadership is paramount for control Phosphoric Acid / Chemical carriers, except naphtha, fuel oil and lubes of the pandemic and caring of the LPG / Ammonia carriers and which are partly exported. vulnerable sections of the society.” Offshore Supply Vessels.

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V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust: It is one of the 13 major ports in India. It is the second-largest port Balmer Lawrie: A Mini-Ratna-I Deen Dayal Port Trust: It is the in and fourth-largest Public Sector Enterprise, under the earliest major port in the country. The container terminal in India. After Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas premier port is called the gateway Sethusamudram Shipping Port. It is of India. It has six Strategic Business to Eastern India. It is the guiding India’s premier port and one of the Units – Industrial Packaging, Greases factor to trade and commerce of major ports of Asia equal to Port of & Lubricants, Leather Chemicals, vast hinterland comprising entire Singapore. This major Port donated Travel & Vacations, Logistics and Eastern India including Bihar and Rs 2 crore to the PM CARES Fund Refinery & Oil Field Services, with Eastern Uttar Pradesh and the two to fight against COVID-19. It has offices spread across the country and land-locked Himalayan Kingdoms also extended the benefits to the port abroad. It contributed over Rs.1.28 of Nepal and Bhutan. Contribution users like the remission of charges crore to PM CARES Fund for battling to PMCF: Rs.1 crore and vessel-related levies. COVID-19.

Visakhapatnam Port Trust: Mumbai Port Trust: Mumbai Port Directorate of Lighthouses Visakhapatnam Port is one of the ports has long been the principal gateway and Lightships (DGLL) The of India. The Port has three harbours to India and has played a pivotal role Directorate General of Lighthouses viz., outer harbour, inner harbour and in the development of the national and Lightships is a subordinate office the fishing harbour. The outer harbour port, trade & commerce. The port under the Ministry of Shipping. It with a water spread of 200 hectares has achieved this position through provides General Aids to Marine has six berths, and the inner harbour continuous endeavour to serve the Navigation along the Indian coast. with a water spread of 100 hectares changing needs of maritime trade. Our motto is to provide safe and has 18 berths. Contribution to PMCF: It contributed Rs.1 crore to the PM secure navigation in the Indian waters Rs.1 crore CARES Fund. It has pledged Rs.1 crore to PMCF.

Bharti Enterprises and its and its Indus Towers, the telecom towers companies, Bharti Airtel, Bharti Managing Director Uday Kotak company contributed Rs.35 Crores to Infratel, contributed over Rs.100 announced a Rs.60-crore donation. the PM Cares Fund as a committed crore to PM CARES Fund to fight The bank will donate Rs.25 crore to partner in supporting the country's against COVID-19. PM Cares Fund. fight against COVID-19.

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Asian Paints has committed Rs.35 crore LIC of India also contributed Rs.105 MD and CEO of Motilal Oswal to fight COVID -19 to the PM CARES crore to the PM CARES fund along Group contributed Rs.5 crore to Fund. “As a socially responsible with Rs.5 crore from the LIC’s PM-CARES Fund. He tweeted: At company, Asian Paints is committed to Golden Jubilee Fund. LIC reaffirms this time, when all of us need to help providing necessary support towards its solidarity in supporting the efforts our fellow Indians in whatever way various relief measures announced by of the Govt. of India in combating we can...Let’s all save lives and fight the Government to combat Covid-19,” the global pandemic. LIC Chairman the #COVID19 crisis together. Health said KBS Anand, Managing Director M.R. Kumar said India is facing is Wealth. and Chief Executive Officer, Asian a huge challenge in the wake of Paints. the global pandemic, which is unprecedented in its severity. “...we will take every step to ensure safety and security of the people and relief for the affected,” he added. Vedanta has contributed Rs.101 Hero MotoCorp donated Rs.50 crore to the Prime Minister’s Citizen crore to combat the Covid-19 Assistance and Relief in Emergency pandemic. It also announced that Situations (PM-CARES) Fund. It will another Rs.50 crore would be used for fund up to Rs.200 crore in providing Engineering and construction distributing medical equipment, food, relief measures to communities at company Larsen & Toubro has and essentials, as well as providing large across the country, the company pledged Rs.150 crore to PM CARES other relief measures by Hero Group said in a statement. Fund along with Rs.500 crore per companies. month to support about 160,000 contract workers.

The Indiabulls Group would contribute Rs.21 crore towards PM CARES Fund to tackle the coronavirus pandemic. “This outbreak has TVS Motor Company and its spared no nation, and it will take the Group Companies TVS Credit Infosys Foundation, the philanthropic collective spirit of our entire country Services Ltd., Sundaram-Clayton and CSR arm of Infosys, donated to best fight it. Indiabulls Group will Ltd., donated Rs.25 crore to the PM- Rs.50 crore to the PM CARES FUND aim to support every effort towards CARES Fund to support in the battle to support efforts towards fighting that objective,” said Sameer Gehlaut against COVID-19. “This is in line with COVID-19 in India. The Foundation Chairman Indiabulls Group. The the company’s continuous endeavour contributed half another Rs.50 crore group hopes to keep supporting the to ensure prosperous and sustainable acquisition of medical and PPE exemplary work done by the Centre communities. It is in addition to the equipment for multiple military and and state authorities in conjunction ongoing activities being already government hospitals across the country with healthcare professionals across undertaken through Srinivasan Services to support various NGOs that provide the country, as they lead the unsung Trust, the CSR arm of the group,” it said food and hygiene kits to thousands of efforts against the pandemic, said in in a statement. people in need. a statement.

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Chairman and MD of T-Series Pradeep and Pankaj Rathod of the Dredging Corporation (DCIL) Bhushan Kumar donated Rs.11 crore Cello Group donated Rs.3.5 crore has emerged as a leading enterprise to PM-CARES Fund. to PM-CARES Fund. in India in the field of dredging. Facing the new challenges and opportunities, DCIL is determined to enhance its business of dredging needs of ports, marine structures, Project Management Consultancy and shallow water dredging services. It contributed Rs.1crore PMCF Hyundai Motor India donated Board of Control for Cricket in India Rs.7 crore to the PM CARES Fund (BCCI) along with the affiliated state to fight the Covid-19 crisis. “Our associations on Saturday announced contribution to the PM CARES Fund to donate Rs.51 crore to the PM- stands testament to solidarity we hold CARES Fund to contribute towards with the people of India, amidst this strengthening the nation’s disaster crisis,” Hyundai Motor India MD and management capacities and encourage CEO SS Kim said research to combat COVID-19 and protect Indian citizens. The Central Armed Police Forces contributed Rs.116 crore, a total of the one-day salary of its personnel to PM CARES Fund. NTPC has contributed Rs.50 crore to PM CARES Fund to strengthen the fight to contain the spread of COVID. The NTPC Employees’ NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has salary contribution was Rs 7.50 crore. contributed a total of Rs.25 crore from Another Rs. 15.20 crore has been its Corporate Social Responsibility earmarked through various company NHPC has contributed Rs.50 Initiative Fund that includes one units for undertaking various activities crore (including Rs.10 crore by its day salary of Minister’ses to the related to COVID-19 preventive subsidiary NHDC) from CSR fund Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance relief. NTPC is India’s largest energy of FY 2019-20 and FY 2020-21 to the and Relief in Emergency Situations conglomerate with roots planted way PM CARES, Fund. NHPC Limited (PM CARES) Fund. A NAVRATNA back in 1975 to accelerate power has become the largest organisation company under the Ministry development in India. Since then, it for hydropower development in India, of Coal was set up in 1956. Its has established itself as the dominant with capabilities to undertake all the present Mining Capacity is 30.6 power major with presence in the entire activities from conceptualization to MTPA ( Lignite), Power Generation value chain of the power generation commissioning in relation to setting Capacity (including JVs): 3640MW business. From fossil fuels, it has up of hydro projects. NHPC Limited (Lignite),1000MW (Coal), 1352.56 forayed into generating electricity via has also diversified in the field of MW (Solar), 51MW (Wind). The hydro, nuclear and renewable energy Solar & Windpower. total: 6043.56 MW. sources.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 22 HEALTH

M.Rajendran Making the right moves ower of Wellness or simply put Powell Laboratories Pvt Ltd is a Pyoung firm with lots of promise for the right cause and potential. It is built on a strong foundation of Powell is an emerging company on the block, but it fundamentals created by Late Prof. has already identified future growth. The company Dr Sailendra Nath Roy, in 1975. The company is committed to a mission of serving billions of is currently operating in a niche market but aspires to become a market leaders in wellness countrymen by worshipping them as living Gods. industry. “We have the vision to touch Rs.100 crore and are moving towards that direction soon, with capacity enhancement. Our efforts have begun to show results on many segments of the business,” says confident Dr. Sudipta Narayan Roy, MD and CEO of Powell Laboratories Pvt Ltd. Armed with all required international accreditations, the firm is ready to go aggressive in expanding its reach in SAARC countries. In the current pandemic situation, Dr Roy feels that there is lot of positives that he has experienced. “In one day, the Department of Drug Control called us and sanctioned the licence for manufacturing sanitizers. Both centre and state governments have cooperated in helping the business house in pharma. “Two officials TP Das, Director of Drug Control and Asst. Director Partha Dev Kar has played a key role in this, helping the sector to meet the urgent requirements in India,” said Dr Roy. He calls them the unsung heroes of government. benefitted. Its efforts got a shot in the arm in areas deprived of state medical facilities,” Post-COVID-19, Dr Roy feels the Indian when the AYUSH ministry recommended the says Dr Roy. population will go for more preventive use of homoeopathic medicine Arsenicum He is buoyed by the increased women care. Holistic medicines will acquire a new album 30 as a prophylactic medicine against in business. Dr Roy has launched a direct dimension; from a niche market, it will move the infection. selling division named PowellCare, wherein to the mainstream market. Homoeopathy The company in addition to building Dr Roy’s vision is to develop and train 10,000 will get a new facelift with the government strong industry and business, also has women entrepreneurs by 2021 in wellness recognizing many of the treatment and a caring philosophy that is preached by sectors as Powell’s channel partners, all over medicines. He acknowledges that when they Swami Vivekananda. “Powell is a CSR the country and make them self dependent. began recommending them like Arsenicum active company, serving humanity is in He is exploring Government tie-ups for the album, they faced significant opposition, the DNA of the organization. Our CSR same to make them financially dependent criticism and even abuses. wing is headed by Dr. Gour Das, who runs and already 100 women entrepreneurs in So, to build confidence, Powell, began Vivekananda Swasthya Seva Sangha, the West Bengal and North East joined the educating people about medicine and rural healthcare organization. We operate mission. its benefits and suggested patients try it, mobile medical vans, that go in the micro The company has big plans and has irrespective of the brand, the industry interiors of the states and runs medical camps invested in human capital to grow.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 23 The man with a mission: “To feed the hungry and needy daily wage earners and the underprivileged children”

VENKAT K. NARAYANA FOUNDER, KVN Foundation & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PRESTIGE GROUP CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 24 MISSION

To believe in something and to make it a goal in life is a commitment that not many can claim to have achieved. Meet Venkat K Narayana, who did it and also inspired many others to give the confidence, that it can be done, and is a living example to the phrase, "Where there is a Will, there is a Way."

r. Venkat, a leader with vision and incisive business acumen, Mis at the helm of one of the largest real estate developers in India, as the Chief Executive Officer of the Prestige Group. His 23 years of experience as an exemplary business leader is a testament to an incredible journey of putting an organisation on a growth trajectory with an innovative combination of strategic initiatives and meticulous planning. A qualified Chartered Accountant, Cost & Management Accountant, Company Secretary and Law graduate, he has been instrumental in executing pioneering plans of action that have time and again proved his remarkable capability to lead from the front. A happily married man and a father of two precocious kids, Venkat is also a leader with a conscience. To help people grapple with the severe humanitarian crisis arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, Venkat has come forward to protect the people living on the margins through the FeedMyCity movement. An initiative of the KVN Foundation, In 2017, Venkat along with his wife million cooked meals and in addition it the movement will serve over 100,000 Nisha, started KVN Foundation (KVNF) has also provided dry rations to several meals daily across - Bengaluru, Mumbai, with an objective to help the poor and thousands across Bengaluru, Mumbai, Noida, Hyderabad and Chennai, for the encourage talent in economically Noida, Hyderabad and Chennai thanks entire duration of the lockdown. The backward section. During COVID-19 to their proactive strategies towards meals will be served to daily wagers, lockdown, KVNF devoted their setting up teams across five locations underprivileged and homeless children foundation’s considerable resources for fund raising, setting up ISO kitchens and frontline workers. Walking the talk, toward combating the hunger of across distribution centres. They were Venkat hopes to give back to the society needy, migrant daily wage earners and recognized for their philanthropic work that has given him in abundance, in every vulnerable societies. KVNF helped by many media channels and news way he can. feeding KVNF Helped feeding over 4.5 publication.

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Treading the path of philanthropy KVN Foundation (KVNF) has performed the most challenging task of feeding the needy during COVID. It was extensive work, but the Foundation put across a team, that had experience and knowledge, more than that it carried forward the conviction of the founders of KVNF. KVN, a platform to contribute towards the creation of a better world CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 26 MISSION

In a free wheeling chat Mr Venkat K Narayana shares his passion to help the poor & needy. Speaking to Amit Goenka he encourages the people to contribute to the society. Excerpts

hat is KVN Foundation, the Foundation has undertaken several and what is its vision and initiatives to add value to the community. Wmission? (Please provide The people behind the Foundation envisage the background of its genesis and with children as the building blocks of the Prestige Group’s association with it? future, and hence have developed programs Recognized as one of India’s most ranging from healthcare to education, to benefit them. To cite a more familiar example, FeedMyCity, an initiative to feed the families of daily wage earners across proactive NGOs during COVID-19, KVN India during the COVID-19 lockdown Foundation was started by Mr. Venkat was supported by the Foundation. With K Narayana in 2017 to promote several many donation points across the country, pressing causes including education, KVN Foundation has been successfully livelihood, women empowerment, channelizing these funds to feed over 4.5 creation of job opportunities and healthcare mn daily wage earners and their families. amongst underprivileged families and For this particular initiative, they created a their children. Venkat, who has been team of over 400 volunteers and partnered giving back to society for over a decade with 120 organizations. now through various channels, decided to create a dedicated avenue with the Visit the website for more details: https:// KVN Foundation. Since its inception, www.kvnfoundation.com/ feedmycity

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during COVID-19? I wanted to ensure that no daily wage earner or his family would go hungry during the lockdown period. Along with my two friends, Ganesh K and Juggy Marwaha, I decided to launch “FeedMyCity”, a non-profit to help the city’s daily wage earners, migrant workers and their families survive the lockdown. Each person chose their areas of expertise such as collecting the data, managing the finances, digital marketing, communications, food production, logistics and distribution on ground, and more. We started with providing 500 freshly-prepared food packs per day to daily wagers and their families in Bengaluru, through the FeedMyBangalore What drives the Foundation and who people in our country, especially the young, initiative. However, within a day or two, are the key people for its management are unable to reach their full potential we realised that there was a far greater and operations? in life because they suffer deprivations need. Within seven days, we expanded The Foundation was initially started by across multiple dimensions of human operations to 5 locations across India, my wife, Nisha Kiran and me, to work development and in countless little ways. namely Hyderabad, Mumbai, Noida, on causes ranging from a merit-based We would like to help them achieve their and Chennai. With each passing day, the scholarship for economically backward full potential. Children as well as young numbers kept increasing until finally, we students with great potential, girl child women and men are critical agents of were serving over one lakhs meals per day education and their hygiene, women change, and we would like to help them from the 500 we had started with. We also empowerment, creation of employment find a platform to channel their infinite decided to distribute dry ration and milk to opportunities to healthcare. What drives us capacities to contribute towards the families including the dabbawalas’ families is the fact that there are imbalances across creation of a better world. in Mumbai. Hungerbox, an industrial B2B socio-economic, ethnic groups; urban and kitchen partnered with us nationally, to rural areas; women and men. Millions of How has the Foundation contributed cook the meals. We identified and made

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a list of over 25 distribution centres in 4.5 million migrants, daily wage earners each city where help was needed, and and their families during the COVID-19 “This is a time to pay back where the needy/daily wagers were lockdown period. We received massive to our society ... can’t concentrated. We tied up with HungerBox, support from donors and celebrities. Over have a full meal knowing our catering partner, to open multiple 100 corporates and 60,000 retail donors kitchens across the distribution centres. came forward to support us. Also, students fully well that millions of And everyone followed all hygiene and from across the country got together underprivileged do not safety protocols - safe preparation of food, to organise 2 FeedMyCity virtual live packing and transportation of the food in concerts – where talented students and have enough means to a hygienic environment and adhering to CEOs from across India performed to feed their families.” the strictest forms of . In help us raise funds for this cause. Many all, KVN Foundation was successful in well-known corporates and celebrities raising enough money to put together and also endorsed our work to help spread distribute hot meals and dry ration to over awareness.

A school of thought believes, the concept of ‘giving’ should become part of school and college curriculum in India. What are your views? Of course yes! We did this through the FeedMyCity Live Concerts, where students from across the country got together to perform live and help raise funds for Mr. Juggy Marwaha Core Team Member the cause. This initiative created both inspiration and empathy in them, to work on a cause that was bigger than themselves of ‘Sharing’ from an early age will teach and where they were instrumental in them generosity, empathy and create a impacting so many lives. We need to teach desire in them to help improve someone our children to be responsible citizens else’s life. They will grow up with greater who not only take care of themselves compassion and maybe in future, even and their families, but also help the less lead discussions / initiatives to help attain fortunate. Introducing them to the concept greater social change. Further, they will

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 29 opinion

“Our platform will help those without any relief or hope. We are all aware of their suffering, and would want to do our bit to help them.”

Mr. Ganesh K. Core Team Member

What kind of an investment (capital, also learn how to behave with people, be Much of the progress occurs through infrastructure, people training, logistics courteous and considerate with them and volunteerism itself. We need to increase (transport)) has KVN Foundation done be more disciplined, which will eventually awareness and create additional intervening to run the operations, Please share data help them grow as professionals as well. bodies to make institutions more credible, and future plans? effective, inclusive and accountable. We are a pan-India foundation, CSR, as an activity has many headquartered in Karnataka. Through our dimensions. What needs to be done to Is KVN is primarily working in South various chapters, and with the support of ensure that there is more help to the (in Karnataka-Bengaluru) or does it our volunteers, we are serving the needy needy? have branches across the Country? across the country. The Foundation raised over INR 15 crore in just 60 days, and we plan to effectively deploy these funds to promote the causes we support.

What are your expectations from the government in terms of policies and levies? It should help: • In the identification of the right causes to focus on • Recognize the work of NGOs, and encourage them to do more • Encourage more and more NGOs to contribute in supporting noteworthy causes

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 30 psu leaders Serving the country and setting new benchmarks in Banking and Insurance It is not easy to lead a public sector enterprise. Two professionals, like many of their peers in other PSEs, are leading the charge and taking forward the organization. One is the leading bank of the country and the other leading Insurance organization in India.

State Bank of India provide. Still, prudence would also, at the same time, demand that over-leveraging Mr. Rajnish Kumar was appointed the even in these circumstances is avoidable Chairman and Managing Director of State as the money has to be repaid, and there Bank of India (SBI), of the largest public is also an interest cost. sector bank in 2017 when the banking A soft-spoken and humble individual, system was under tremendous stress. Kumar has a brilliant business mind. The Mr. Kumar’s journey to the post country and the world has been witness to of CMD of SBI began in in 1989 as a his prowess in managing the most difficult probationary office in Auriya tehsil in situations. “When we talk about one-time Uttar Pradesh. His ability to respond in a speaking at an (online) event organized restructuring it requires deeper analysis manner that reflects a unique leadership by FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO). the understand the losses incurred by the style has helped SBI to grow immensely, Kumar said that if he pointed out that corporates. Currently, there are cashflows even in the challenging circumstance. in the current uncertain situations, all disruptions, and we’re not obsessed with It is well reflected in the recent businesses will need more working capital one-time restructuring,” Kumar pointed observation that he made recently while funds, which the banking system should at a recent webinar with media. Life Insurance Corporation of India o lead an organization, where one learn new systems and process, and that Thas worked tirelessly for more than resulted in his managing some essential 35 years is no mean achievement. Vipin assignments. Like, in Operations as well Anand, Managing Director of LIC, has as at the corporate level, ranging from achieved this distinction. Information Technology, Marketing, He was armed with an international Personnel & Industrial Relations experience of setting up branches in to Corporate Communications and Singapore and Bangladesh. A versatile International Operations, across different manager, Anand before being appointed geographical locations of the country. MD of LIC was heading the operations of Anand has also held posts of Executive LIC’s Western Zone, with its headquarters Director (Direct Marketing), Executive at Mumbai. It consisted of 23 divisions Earlier, he has also headed LIC’s East Director (Corporate Communications) covering the states of Maharashtra, Central Zone headquartered at Patna. and Executive Director (International Gujarat, Goa and Union Territories of His seniors noticed his down to Operations) with the same elan, that he Daman, Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. earth approach and inquisitiveness to demonstrated in his earlier assignments.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 31 csr initiative

LEADING FROM THE FRONT TO SERVE THE NATION The Oriental Insurance Company Ltd, operates with high responsibility and maintains the trust of its customers and stakeholders. As a responsible company, it believes in giving back to the society, especially when the country is facing a crisis in form of a pandemic.

he Oriental Insurance Company developed various types of insurance underwriting and efficient & proper Ltd. was incorporated at Mumbai covers to cater to the needs of both the claim management Ton 12th September 1947. The urban and rural population of India. The 6. Effectively manage our reinsurance Company was a wholly owned subsidiary Company has a technically qualified operations of The Oriental Government Security and competent team of professionals 7. Effectively manage our investments Life Assurance Company Ltd and was to render the best customer service. for optimising yield formed to carry out General Insurance The company has vision to be the most 8. Have effective risk management business. The Company was a subsidiary respected & preferred Non-Life Insurer systems of Life Insurance Corporation of India in the markets we operate. 9. Improve the penetration of non-life from 1956 to 1973 ( till the General As a responsible company that insurance by proper underwriting, Insurance Business was nationalized in cares for the customers, employees, innovation & marketing the country). In 2003 all shares of our stakeholders, it has identified 10 focus 10. To evolve as a vibrant & dynamic Company held by the General Insurance areas that is followed in letter and spirit. leading non-life insurer Corporation of India were transferred to the Central Government. 1. Act as a financially sound corporate CSR WORK The Company is a pioneer in laying entity with high business ethics down systems for smooth and orderly 2. Implement best human resource The Oriental Insurance Company conduct of the business. The strength development practices to build Limited’s, Corporate Social of the Company lies in its highly a highly efficient, dedicated and Responsibility philosophy is delineating trained and motivated work force that motivated workforce with high its responsibility as a Corporate Citizen covers various disciplines and has morale and moral values and laying down the guidelines and vast expertise. Oriental specializes in 3. Optimally utilize the information mechanism for undertaking socially devising special covers for large projects technology infrastructure useful programmes for welfare & like power plants, petrochemical, steel 4. Provide excellent customer service sustainable development of the and chemical plants. The Company has 5. Run the business profitably prudent community.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 32 csr initiative

The Company has constituted CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Committee, a Sub-Committee of the CSR ACTIVITIES Board of Directors of the Company. All the activities listed in Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013 and any UNDERTAKEN IN THE amendments thereof are taken as thrust areas for the purpose of focusing its CSR YEAR 2018-19 initiatives in a continuous and effective • Sponsored Educational Trips to underprivileged children of 4 branches of manner. Vidya & Child Schools run by Jaiprakash Narayan Trust. A Corporate CSR Department under • Sponsored LMV Driving course for the economically / socially weaker sec- the guidance and supervision of GM tions of the society in association with Ashok Leyland Driving Training & (CSR) has been set up to implement, Research Center, Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh. monitor and evaluate CSR Activities • Provided financial assistance for the construction of First Floor of Tribal Train- undertaken in the Company. The services ing Center for the marginalized section of the society at Lingapur, Adilabad of Regional Offices of the Company Dt. Of Telangana. spread across the Country are also utilized • Provided financial assistance for the construction of Library & Community for implementation of CSR initiatives in Hall at Mukti Ashram, Delhi, a transit rehabilitation-cum-education centre various parts of the Country. for rescued child/bonded labourers. The Vision for CSR is that ORIENTAL • Completed Phase II of WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene) initiatives in INSUARANCE, in its role as a socially all the 217 Government schools of Warangal, Telangana in association with responsible corporate citizen will endeavor Greater Warangal Municipal Corporation and Administrative Staff College to participate in programmes that benefit of India, Hyderabad. the society at large and also those who • Sponsored 2 Palliative Homecare teams to take care of the cancer patients need special assistance. at Najafgarh, Delhi. The objective of ORIENTAL • Sponsored cancer awareness & detection camp at remote villages of border INSURANCE for CSR is to operate its area of Jammu District. business in an economically, socially & • Provided infrastructure items, medical equipments, classroom furniture to environmentally sustainable manner, to NGO units all over the country. directly or indirectly take up programmes • Provided classroom furniture, computers, educational items, water coolers and that benefit the community, enhance the other infrastructure items in Schools situated in Urban slums and Rural areas. quality of life for people for whom the • Provided Physiotherapy equipments, Educational items, sports equipments specific programme is designed, to create and infrastructure items to Special schools run for the benefit of differently community goodwill and enhance its abled children. socially responsible image. • Provided Braille Printer to Gnanajyoti Trust for the disabled, for The Company launched its CSR supplying Books to the visually challenged students. activities on its 67th Founder’s Day on • Supported Education of children from Tribal Communities in Southern Raj- 12th September, 2014 by organizing an asthan by distributing School Bags to 1000 children of Seva Mandir Educational Trip for 500 children living in • Provided Classroom furniture to Valivare Tribal school run by Social Uplift- orphanages under control of Department ment and Development for Health Action (SUADHA). of Women & Child Development at Azad • Distributed “The Hindu in School Newspaper” to students of select Govern- Hind Gram, an historic and education spot ment schools across the country. under control of DT & TDC, housing a • Distributed Aids and Appliances to Divyangjan in association with Artificial museum on famous freedom fighter, Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO). Netaji Subash Chandra Bose, and giving • Constructed Toilets at Government School, Pottiyoor, Tamil Nadu under an insight on heroic activities of Azad Swachch Bharat initiatives. Hind Fauz which played an important role • Contributed to Chief Ministers Distress Relief Fund to aid the rehabilitation in India’s freedom fight against British of flood victims of Kerala. Government.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 33 LEADERSHIP Standing out amidst the pandemic and economic chaos CPSEs show the way To begin with, in the 1950s, the challenges were many for central public sector enterprises. However, over the years, they have contributed immensely to the economic growth of the country. Along with it, the yeoman work done by CPSE through the CSR activities is a silent service in supplementing the government’s efforts to uplift the marginalized people of society.

Harish Chandra priorities of the country. They contribute such as employment generation and skill to macroeconomic objectives such as development. entral Public Sector Enterprises growth, advancement in manufacturing CPSEs function under the control of (CPSEs) play a significant role and technology and price stabilization, as administrative ministries. The decisions Cin fulfilling the developmental well as to fulfil socio-economic objectives relating to investments in the CPSEs are CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 34 LEADERSHIP

taken by the concerned administrative contribution of their one day’s salary to duty, GST, corporate tax, interest on ministries with the approval of competent PM CARES Fund. Central Government loans, dividend and authority considering techno-economic “Mr. Sailesh, Secretary, Department of other duties and taxes stood at Rs.3,68,803 feasibility. Public Enterprises (DPE) had commended crore in 2018-19 as against Rs.3,52,361 The Department of Public Enterprises the efforts of PSEs in the socio-economic crore in 2017-18, showing an increase of (DPE), Ministry of Heavy Industries & development of the country as well as 4.67%. Public Enterprises, Government of India their contribution in supplementing the Foreign exchange earnings of 79 brings out the Public Sector Enterprises Government efforts to contain COVID CPSEs through exports of goods and Survey on the performance of Central 19 outbreak,” Mr. Sobti added. services stood at Rs.1,43,377 crore in Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) every According to a government statement 2018-19 against Rs.98,714 crore in 2017- year. According to the Public Enterprises the, total Paid-up Capital in all CPSES as 18, showing an increase of 45.24%. Survey -2018-19 tabled in both the on 31.3.2019 Stood at Rs.2,75,697 crore SCOPE in its latest report highlighted Houses of Parliament on February 10, Registering a Growth of 8.55%. that PSEs are proving their metal 2020, there were total 348 CPSEs as on Financial Investment in all CPSES across sectors and featuring amongst March 31, 2019, out of which 249 were Stood at Rs.16,40,628 crore Recording the top companies of the world. This is operational. Remaining 86 CPSEs were a Growth of 14.65%. Further, the overall apparent from the fact that out of 6 Indian under construction, and 13 CPSEs were net profit of operating CPSEs during companies featuring in the prestigious under closure or liquidation. 2018-19 stood at Rs.1,42,951 crore as Global Fortune 500 list for the year 2020, “Public Sector has emerged as an compared to Rs.1,23,751 crore during 3 are CPSEs and out of total 57 Indian instrument of all-inclusive development 2017-18 showing a growth in overall companies featuring in Forbes 2000 - of the country’s economy… In the wake profit of 15.52%. World’s Biggest Public Companies for of ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Public Reserves & Surplus of CPSEs stood the year 2019, 10 are PSEs. Sector Enterprises (PSEs) remained at the at Rs.9,93,328 crore as on 31.03.2019 Sobti in the latest issue of SCOPE forefront to supplement the efforts of the as compared to Rs.9,26,906 crore as on magazine states, “The need of the hour government and its agencies to contain 31.03.2018, showing an increase of 7.17%. is to constantly empower and build the spread of this deadly virus,” wrote The net worth of all CPSEs went from trust in the PSEs so that they are able to Atul Sobti Director General, SCOPE in Rs.11,15,552 crore as on 31.03.2018 to demonstrate global competitiveness and its monthly magazine. Rs.12,08,758 crore as on 31.03.2019 market leadership. The PSEs have and SCOPE salutes the slew of measures showing an increase of 8.36 %. always will be the veritable cornerstones taken to address all strata and on its part Contribution of CPSEs to Central of the Indian economy and will continue SCOPE employees have made a humble Exchequer by way of excise duty, customs to canvass India’s growth story.”

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 35 STOP C R ONAVIRUS

A BIG SALUTE TO CORONA WARRIORS The warriors who served citizen and country to fight COVID-19

The COVID-19 is a reality that the world has accepted it. As scientist are spending day and night to find a vaccine, many warriors—a few on the front and some in the background—are burning their midnight oil, to ensure that sections of society, infirm and unable to manage the hardships of social distancing (the resultant lockdown) does not create a divide in the society and nation. CSR Times recognizes their efforts and salutes the service by highlighting a few of them. It is our contribution to society and the world by bringing such stories for readers to appreciate these unsung heroes.

For nomination you may visit us at www.csrtimes.org

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 36 COVID WARRIOrs Siddhi: Meenaa Mahaajjan Meenaa Mahaajjan a name known widely because of the exemplary display of leadership shown in times of crisis. During a crisis like this, many confine to safe heavens and perform remotely, but Meenaa Mahaajjan, who is the founder of 'Siddhi', chose to be fearless and on ground to serve humanity.

iddhi, a non-profit, volunteer-led COVIDKNIGHTS are working in Sorganization started with a strong three broad areas during this constantly foundation of selfless service and the evolving situation. These areas include power of giving. It has served over One Support for the Front Line Workers, million meals in different parts of the Support for the Underprivileged and country. Establishing Alternative Support The organization’s founder Meenaa Systems for the Vulnerable groups, Mahaajjan, a Holistic Wellness Expert including the Elderly, Children with and an active proponent of the Vedas Special needs, orphans, etc. The and Upanishads, launched a multi- COVIDKNIGHTS provided cooked pronged national response to the meals, dry ration packets, personal epidemic that is being led by a force of hygiene kits, milk, sanitizers, masks, ‘COVIDKNIGHTS’. The essence of slippers, clothing etc. this response is community engagement, Dr Meenaa has been on ground support, and solidarity. every single day and made sure the

COVIDKNIGHTS work as a alternate support system for the community. Each lockdown phase had a different strategy for reaching out to the most remote areas across the nation. From highways to railway stations COVIDKNIGHTS have been doing selfless work under the guidance of Dr Meenaa. “Siddhi was formed on these beliefs where every individual realizes their social responsibility and works to build a more inclusive and well-supported society, one piece at a time. At Siddhi, we strongly believe that we extend support to others not just to empower them but to empower a nation of immense potential,” said Meenaa Mahaajjan.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 37 COVID WARRIOrs Warriors of Sugaradhana spreading virtues of Good Health and Power of Worship relentlessly to serve those in need, is spearheaded by its founder, Dr. Karthik Narayanan, a thorough visionary, fearless leader, selfless humanitarian, and philanthropist. Under the guidance and the support of Bengaluru City Police, Dr. Prasanna, Director - Sabhari Eye Hospital and CSR Times, the Sugaradhana team is doing some phenomenal work by keeping the Policemen safe from COVID-19, by supplying Face Masks and Sanitizers At the same time, they risk exposure to the outbreak and serve the masses, by braving it every day on the streets of Bengaluru. The Team not only distributes groceries and cooked food to government- run shelters, slums and homeless individuals but also feeds stray dogs and cats. Apart from the above, Dr. Karthik Narayanan and his Team are determined to begin the spraying of Bio Enzyme (also referred to as Garbage Enzyme or Fruit Enzyme) is natural insects and germ repellent produced from vegetable/fruit peels (usually citrus) or waste, throughout the city. The Bio Enzymes, when sprayed, create a microbial shield around us to protect us from any external germ attacks. They are a better replacement for chemical-based cleaners Bio Enzymes, come with numerous health benefits and can help prevent the spread of COVID-19. ugaradhana, a word amalgamated Pandemic with Free distribution of FDA On asking Dr. Karthik Narayanan on Sfrom two very powerful Sanskrit & WHO approved COVID-19 prevention what keeps his spirits up to motivate him words, Suga (Health) and Aradhana commodities and Food supply to the in such trying times, he simply replies that (Worship), has transformed into a common ground forces, the homeless and the poor. his inspirations, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Dr. man’s initiative to combat the Coronavirus The Sugaradhana team, working Veerendra Hegde, Usha Raman - Founder

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 38 COVID WARRIOrs

PROJECTS INITIATED TO FIGHT COVID BY SUGARADHANA

• Free Supply for Masks and Sanitizers for Policemen across Bangalore and Disinfectant - Replacing Sodium Hypochlorite & Idoine water. The Extract is a Chikaballapura District. Fruit extract and is very safe sprayed on humans as well, and we have the lab • Introducing Organic Disinfectant Tunnels across Red Zone Areas of Karnataka reports as well for the same. It was highly appreciated by the Govt of Karnataka and Andhrapradesh and Medical Minister - K Sudhakar, Education Minister for State - Mr Suresh Kumar, • 47000 Food Articles Distributed to Migrants in Karnataka, Commissioner of Police - Mr Bhaskar Rao IPS as well. • 2000 PPE Kits Distributed to Govt Hospital Doctors, Asha Workers, Nurses The Main Concept of this is Instead of Using Sodium Hyppochloride, and we • 10000 Masks for Bangalore Police Men on duty on road use Organic Fruit Extract Solution, which is Lab Tested and Non-Alcoholic, Non- • 10000 Personal Sanitizers provided for Policemen on duty on road in Bangalore. Corrosive and Non-Karsigeonic as well. The Man Behind this Inspiration was Mr Varaprasad Reddy KAS - Special Officer COVID 19 Karnataka and Film Actor Ajith Gauribidanur Taluk, Chikaballpura District - Karnataka was the first place we did the Kumar from Chennai. It was done in association with Sabari Hospitals - Hosur - organic tunnel - It is India’s First Breakthru Technology using Organic Anti Microbial Doctor Prassana and CSR Times’ Mr Harish Chandra.

Mithun Kumar GK - SP Chikkaballapur District has given the mission New zeal and enthusiasm. Dr. Karthik Narayanan has initiated several voluntary projects, the bedrock on which stands his dream, to touch as many lives as possible. Being an award-winning entrepreneur and the CEO of Lit Skills Learning - an Edutainment driven English Enrichment Program, Dr. Karthik Narayanan envisions for every child in India to read write and speak excellent English, through its affordable flagship program, Project English. He founded a food bank system named Anbudan Sapadu - ‘Food of Sri Jayendra Saraswati Golden Jubilee special thanks to ‘ Thala’ Ajith Kumar. With Love’, that feeds 700 Sadhu’s, School, Tirunelveli and the social work Plus the irrevocable trust and support free nutritious home-cooked vegetarian and contributions of a veteran actor Thala of Dr. Bheemashankar S. Guled - DCP meals, three times a day in the district of Ajith Kumar keep him going. He extended Bengaluru (North East Division), Shri Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 39 COVID WARRIOrs Sparsh Ganga helps reduce the people’s pain during COVID-19 Sparsh Ganga is a non-profitable initiative started in 2008 at Rishikesh, Uttrakhand with a motive to rejuvenate river Ganga and its tributaries. Led by a young, dynamic leader Arushi Nishank, Sparsh Ganga has played an important role in easing the pain of poor during COVID -19 and helping the warriors of COVID and soldiers of the country by providing safety masks.

awakening programs like Sensitization Campaigns, Cyclothon from Rishikesh, Triveni Ghat to Haridwar, VIP Ghat, Water Conservation & Yamuna River he Covid-19 pandemic has badly Our voluntee are providing online cleaning programs, etc. have been hit India and the whole world. counselling to the families affected by conducted with mass public support. TTo fight the pandemic, the poor the Corona virus and also guiding college Sparsh Ganga Prehri Maha Abhiyan has people need to be given safety masks, students in their studies. Sparsh Ganga achieved recognition in Golden Book of sanitize and other health-care facilities has also provided 11000 handmade Records for ‘largest signature drive for which are beyond the reach of the Khadi masks called ‘Raksha Kawach,’ creating voluntee to keep the river clean’. common masses. Sparsh Ganga team and to the soldiers serving at the borders,” Namami Gange, National Mission for its volunteer have been very active since said Arushi Nishank, the Chairperson of Clean Ganga, recognizes Sparsh Ganga January 2020 in spreading awareness Sparsh Ganga. as ‘Ganga Heroes’. “We feel proud to to keep people safe from the Virus and She added, “Our teams have already say that today, Sparsh Ganga is a family helping the people by giving food and stitched more than 20000 khadi masks of more than 5 lakh Volunteers, mentors health care and safety equipment like and distributed needy people in different and team leaders all over the world,” said handmade khadi masks, gloves, sanitizer cities of India, esp. in Haridwar, Nishank. etc. Rishikesh, Dehradoon and Roorkee in To showcase the cultural-social and “We have distributed food to more Uttrakhand, Mandi in Himachal, Varanasi economic significance of Indian rivers, than 20,000 people. Every day our teams in UP and many parts of Delhi.” Sparsh Ganga has proposed to organize are distributing foods to more than 1000 In last twelve years, under the able Yamuna Mahotsava in the year 2020, needy people in different parts of India. guidance of Arushi Nishank, various whenever the situations become normal.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 40 COVID WARRIOrs Helping the poor in the time of Covid19

ocial workers often have to work in Sub collector Thiru Vaitjiyanathan Sstressful circumstances. Many people of , District, TAMILNADU had come forward to help poor people and donated. Mask and Gloves, disinfectants migrant labourers stranded in different and bleaching powder along with parts of the country. One such warrior M.Gopikrishnan. was M.Gopikrishnan, Director Shri Balaji He has been working in different parts Marketing, who is well known for his of the state for many decades. His services social work in the southern states. to humanity have been recognized by On 26th April Mr M.Gopikrishnan national and international institutions, helped fisherman families in (Aliyaar He had given all needed ingredients for that have conferred him many awards dam; district), scheduled cooking such as rice, vegetables which is and accolades. Last year he was conferred tribes in(cinnarpathi and navamalai) demand now. He had helped 150 families the Mahatma Gandhi Samman for nation- by providing food to people stuck in in the time of Covid19 lockdown. building initiatives by NRI Welfare lockdown following COVID 19. He M.Gopikrishnan had also helped Society (U.K. Chapter) in the House of also helped the hairstylists community sweepers; who sweep the dust and Commons, London. Gopikrishnan also and communities earning their living by unwanted things and to the police officers; received the Nelson Mandela International washing clothes in Dindugal East district who work around whole day restless with Peace Award for fostering the ideals of in Tamil Nadu during this lockdown reusable rubber gloves and reusable mask Humanitriansim by the Open International period by offering dry ration. which is essential protective measures. University in Colombo. The COVID WarrioRs of Bengaluru he amazing work done by a set Mr Hemant Kumar, Doctor on call: Dr Tof volunteers, that included top Bhaskar Rajkumar, Counselling 24 x 7: bureaucrats, professionals, corporate Dr Jyothi, Field Counselling: Ms Kalyani, executives and many others in the city of Food Distribution: Capt Radhakrishna, Bengaluru is an inspirational story that Distribution Logistics: Mr Veeresh needs to be told. CSR Times took the Shetty, Caller Verification: Mr Naveen, initiative to highlight the tremendous work Supervision: Ms Naziya Sultana, Data done by these unsung heroes. conceived by Capt Manivanna., I.A.S, Team: Mr Sumukh, MIS Team: Mr “As I wanted to contribute to the Secretary Department of Information and Chandan Das, Press: Mr Vijay Grover, society in a small way, I volunteered to Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Grocery Kits: Shiv Shetty, Migrants be part of the Task Force, after intimating Karnataka. Led by Task Force Chairman Transport: Major Prashant, Backend the head of my department,” says Major Ms Malavika Avinash a bunch of teams Support: Ms Sreeja, Creatives: HAM/ Pradeep Shoury Arya., I.R.S., SHAURYA were created to resolve niche segments of Radio, Police Assistance: Others who CHAKRA, currently Additional the population and even animals. are part of this Team with support staff Commissioner of Income-Tax, Mumbai. Some of the Teams consisting entirely are: Civil Defence: Dr Chetan, Home He had come to Bangalore from Mumbai, by Volunteers are: The Volunteer Incharge Guards: Rajesh Jayashima. They were to attend his fathers’ health issue during led by also assisted by NSS Volunteers’ and which the lockdown was announced. Ms Sonali Singh, She-Warriors: Ms representatives from the Registered/ The concept of Volunteers and their Sathya M, Animal Feed and Rescue: Mr Recognized Trade Unions, including involvement in the relief measures was Shimadri and Mr Kiran, Drone Team: Elected Representatives.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 41 COVID WARRIOrs BRAINSTORMING ON COVID BY THE TOP MINDS OF INDIA SR IN TIMES OF PANDEMIC,’ Fiji), Atul Gupta (President, Institute of government towards the welfare of ‘Ca Webinar held recently was Chartered Accountants of India), Ashish migrant workers He also expressed his well received by over 100 national and Garg (President, Institute of Companies satisfaction over the role of information international participants. They actively Secretaries of India). technology during this crisis. participated and benefited from the The webinar was jointly moderated Mr Atul Gupta gave useful insights erudite debates and discussions of some by Dr K K Upadhyay (Former Director, on how the CSR will reshape after of the best minds in India. FICCI (CSR) and Prashant Das this crisis and how the companies will It was attended by Shri. Sanjay Dhotre (Consulting Editor-CSR TIMES). The respond to the demands of restoration (Hon’ble Union Minister of State for webinar had some insightful interactions of the socio-economic condition of our HRD, Communications, Electronics & and deliberation for over two hours.The country. I.T.). As Chief Guest, he gave a direction participants got enlightened on many Ms Stuti Kacker raised a valid point to the whole webinar and threw up some issues surrounding CSR in the times of concern of most of the people by critical issues that the world and its of pandemic. Later, they also actively asking for the solution to the over-use people need to address. participated in the poll questions which and misuse of social media and internet Other top dignitaries who made were asked during the webinar. by the children and youth of the society. their valuable contribution to the HE Mr Yogesh Punja emphasized on Mr Amit Goenka and Mr Harish success of webinar included--K J remaining positive in these tough times Chandra (Directors-Indian Achievers’ Alphons Member of Parliament (Rajya and explained how the post-pandemic Forum) shared their views on the Sabha) & Former Minister of Tourism, time would bring loads of opportunities challenges and opportunities which may Nexon Joseph (President & CPP- SBI of everyone. come up post-pandemic. Foundation), H.E. Mr. Yogesh Punja, Mr Sanjay Dhotre informed about Overall, the webinar was a successful (High Commissioner, The Republic of the lesser-known steps taken by the event and concluded on a positive note. Taking the challenge head-on r Ritu Saxena, Medical workforce in the hospital, but we kept DSuperintendent of LNJP working endlessly. Hospital, Delhi, gives insight into the But these are the sacrifices which challenges faced by the warriors. I have no regret in the making for the LNJP Hospital’s COVID-19 larger welfare of patients for whom journey began on March 17 when it we are the only light-post. We, the received its first case. Emergency Department of LNJP Like any other person, the doctors, Hospital, will keep working at this nurses and paramedics had a great fear pace. We know that the worse phase of of this disease. This required a change this virus is yet to come, and we have to of mindset, and to do so, training and handle it with limited resources when counselling sessions were held for the it does. entire hospital staff. It had the necessary As a team leader, however, I do effect, and their fear was lessened to a encouragement, the entire staff had wish that all of us emerge successful great extent. taken to their task with full dedication. against this COVID-19 war, and prove I head the Emergency Department Various problems were faced to everyone else that we did our best of LNJP Hospital, and with in view of the infrastructure and and we are the best.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 42 COVID WARRIOrs

number of healthcare professionals/ workers at the new facility specially Svran Group: Reaching set up at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi to care of Covid-19 patients. out during COVID-19 scenario “I am immensely proud of everyone he coronavirus pandemic is frontline health workers. Further, it will who is working tirelessly to ensure the Tunprecedented and has created be providing hand sanitisers to about health and well-being of our nation. a severe crisis in the entire world, 15,000-20,000 doctors every month. It is our responsibility and privilege including India. Also, the COVID-19 Funds have also been given for migrant to support our COVID-19 frontline generated situation has placed a huge labour through various foundations and warriors – doctors, nurses and healthcare strain on our health and social care chambers. personnel – who are working round the workers. One of our companies has been clock to save precious lives. They have The various companies associated working with ASSOCHAM for the past our unending gratitude”, said Sushma with Svran Group have extended a several years for various community- Paul Berlia, President. She added, helping hand towards dealing with the level interventions. Taking into account “To face this biggest challenge that COVID-19 scenario. In several high the need of the hour, this company humanity has ever faced, we should all impact and meaningful endeavours it decided to partner with ASSOCHAM come together and join hands to fight it has reached out to be of help to frontline in supporting the food requirements out successfully”. health workers, migrant labourers and of meals (Lunch & Dinner) of a large These companies have been playing towards programmes of food provisions an effective role in man-making and in Delhi and other states during this nation-building. They have been human crisis. playing an effective part in social They have also contributed to the outreach initiatives, particularly in Prime Minister’s Fund. Also, they are the realms of health and well-being, providing large quantum of Personal women empowerment and for those Protection Equipment (PPE), high- who are physically challenged, among quality masks, hand sanitisers and other causes that it espouses from time thermometers for doctors and other to time.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 43 education

initiative for e-teaching for AKTU. This means the domain knowledge is being The gift of knowledge extended beyond its own Architecture students, thereby benefiting a larger number of students studying Architecture and amidst COVID-19 related disciplines. Online teaching efforts as directed by AKTU are going on in full steam. All the faculty of the School of Planning and Architecture are busy conducting e lectures, classes and Google hangout sessions with the students and also interacting one-to-one with them to clear their doubts. The schools, under the aegis of the Apeejay Education Society, went out of their way to help the students of the economically weaker sections (EWS) to cope up with online learning during the Covid-19 scenario. Access was given to all irrespective of whether they paid the fee or not. The schools went to the extent of helping with mobile phones if the concerned students did not have the same. Through effective organizational skills, Apeejay Schools could ensure commendable participation from the EWS students in the online classes. Further, those who were unable to pay the fee and were Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairperson, Apeejay Education Society, Co- Founder and Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University. in real need were helped with scholarships as well. CSR Times team institutions, wherever feasible, knowledge All the educational institutions and enrichment are being extended beyond of Apeejay are trying their best that n wake of the clarion call for a even the online classrooms. They are being uninterrupted learning continues for all nationwide lockdown given by Prime projected to wider student bases, social its students. Teachers, under the guidance IMinister Narendra Modi, the Apeejay media platforms, YouTube channels and of technical teams, have swiftly adapted Education Society and the Apeejay Stya other platforms where they reach a larger to the online world of teaching. In all the University reached out immediately to audience who can benefit from them. Apeejay Stya Schools and higher education students with a seamless stream of online One of the higher educational institutions, teachers are connecting with education. What is remarkable is that they institutions of Apeejay Education Society, the students via video conferencing and took ‘Vidya daan’ or the precious gift of namely, School of Architecture & Planning, multiple online platforms for Interactive knowledge to students beyond their own has done an exemplary job of reaching out online lessons every day. In the higher institutions, thereby benefiting a broader with expertise to an entire community of education institutions of Apeejay Stya, base of students. Apeejay Education Society students and enthusiasts of Architecture. learning has enhanced because even (AES) runs 24 educational institutions Recognizing their commendable external subject leaders and experts from comprising schools and colleges. contribution, Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam around the world, who are also at home, Meanwhile, at AES and ASU, the entire Technical University (AKTU) Hon’ble are joining and contributing to the online community is voluntarily giving one day’s Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor have lessons quite easily. These experts are salary to the Prime Minister’s relief fund. issued e-certificates to 20 of its faculty providing cutting edge expertise and career- In all Apeejay Stya Educational members including the Director for their related guidance to Apeejay educational

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 44 education

institutions, especially the higher education ones, during the lockdown period. All classes and time tables are running online as per their regular schedule as if they were in the Institution and University. The institutions are also exchanging their best practices with each other. Further, they are bringing in elements like fixed classroom timings, lunch breaks, etc. to give the students a feel of normalcy. Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Co-Promoter & President, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group; Chairperson, Apeejay Education Society; Co-Founder & Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University said, “Our long term investments in technology and innovation are helping courses during the lockdown period. and government), Apeejay Schools have during the Covid-19 lockdown. I am Amidst the complete lockdown because proactively taken a number of steps to extremely proud of our teachers, principals, of Coronavirus pandemic, Apeejay School ensure an enhanced security environment professors, deans, parents and students who of Management (ASM) roped in a gamut of online learning. have come together with hard work and of experts to provide industry-oriented Lockdown is tough for everybody, perseverance to make this possible almost enrichment to its students. At Apeejay including the young minds of the students. overnight. We are dedicated to continue Stya University (ASU), a series of high Apeejay has worked out an ‘Online educating our students and create the future profile webinars are being organized by the teaching-learning balanced time table’ leaders of tomorrow. We believe our swift respective Departments of the University which integrates academics with co- adaptation to meet the Covid-19 challenge wherein the leading lights of the various scholastic pursuits like dance, music, art head-on would hugely help our students domains are engaging with the students of & craft, physical fitness, yoga et al. to give enhance their independent learning and ASU on topics which are of critical value enough non-screen time, relaxation as well collaborative skills that will hold them in in the separate domains. as brain gym to the students to help them good stead throughout their lives.“ As online learning becomes the new concentrate and retain knowledge better Apeejay Education Society organized normal amidst the lockdown emanating and feel better about the whole experience. several workshops to help, educate, facilitate from COVID-19 concerns, schools are Apart from enriching learning materials, and fine-tune their faculty in online/e- taking note of a new set of rules to ensure students are being given guidance on learning - teaching-learning process, that the ethics of online learning are how to spend the time at home in a devising course materials, assignments, maintained to make the most of such remote constructive manner, while staying healthy evaluation, discussion forum and allow all learning. Apeejay Education Society issued and positive in spirit. Recorded lessons, to engage with the students using various a set of ‘Online Learning Ethical Guideline’ videos on broadcast groups, worksheets, technology, IT-enabled platforms and ICT to its students, to ensure online discipline online quizzes et al. are not only keeping modes more efficiently and effectively. and keeping the children focused. Also, in youngsters engaged but providing them Workshops on Instructional Design were the wake of the Zoom/Video conference joyful learning. Apeejay Stya Education organized for all the teaching faculty of security concerns being raised (by media Research Foundation - the think tank under AES higher education institutions and ASU. AES, is regularly coming out with various The Apeejay College of Fine Arts research documents and reports related (ACFA), which is one of the premier to COVID-19 situation. institution of AES offering a gamut of Meanwhile, beyond enrichment through courses in Arts and beyond, not only went knowledge, the Apeejay Education Society ahead with seamless online lessons but also has also contributed to ‘Rasoi on Wheels’ spread awareness about COVID-19 to Foundation through CII for COVID-19. villages using video films. Also, the Institute It will be serving meals to a very large is offering free of cost skill development number of people for many days.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 45 health WHO plays a significant role in the fight to defeat COVID-19 As we read, six months of the year 2020 have been recorded in the history books. Future generations will read this part of human civilization, with a tinge of sadness and pain. The first death was reported on January 11, 2020, in China. Many around the world have lost their loved ones since then. More than 380,000 deaths, were reported to WHO in June first week. The fight is on…

t was around the first week of this year in improves, more coronaviruses are likely for COVID-19. January; a World Health Organisation to be identified. A set of first such case WHO continues to monitor. Each day I(WHO) statements highlighted that had been identified in December 2019 in it compiles a statement on the status of globally, novel coronaviruses emerge Wuhan district of China. this virus in the world and makes it public. periodically in different areas, including In the third week of March 2020, WHO From the first death reported SARS in 2002 and MERS in 2012. Several and partners launched the . Dr Ghebreyesus, known coronaviruses are circulating in This international clinical trial aims to WHO Director-General has been in animals that have not yet infected humans. generate robust data from around the constant touch with the world leaders, But it warned, that as surveillance world to find the most effective treatments policymakers, influencers, medical

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 46 health

fraternity, health workers, and other UN organizations to ensure that humanity fights back strongly this virus. The organization from day one has been reiterating that the COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s essential that you also practice respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow). At the time of going to press, there were no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19. However, many ongoing clinical trials are evaluating potential treatments. WHO assured in a statement that, it would continue to provide updated information as soon as clinical findings become available. Basic psychosocial support skills are at the core of any mental health and psychosocial support intervention. To assist all those involved in the COVID-19 necessary, ranging from enhanced hygiene recommendations such as the Occupational response, WHO has published guidance and physical distancing to mandatory use Safety and Health Recommendation 164 on basic psychosocial skills. of personal protective equipment (PPE) and Occupational Safety and Health At the Yemen High-level Pledging in higher-risk settings where measures Convention C155which provide an overall Conference, Dr Mike Ryan, Executive based on prevention of exposure cannot framework for managing hazards in the Director, WHO Health Emergencies sufficiently reduce risk. workplace, in addition to sector-specific Programme emphasized that COVID-19 Risk mitigation measures must reflect labour standards. was placing a significant burden on the the features of, and risks related to, During the COVID-19 pandemic, health system, already on the verge of each specific job. To ensure they can WHO and the ILO have been working collapse and that despite the considerable be appropriately implemented and are to meet the demand from stakeholders efforts of WHO and partners in Yemen, working as intended, individual businesses for reliable information to inform safe ‘we need a massive scale-up of our COVID must develop prevention and mitigation back-to-work strategies. The ILO’s and non-COVID health operations to assist action plans in consultation with workers recently-released guidance note on safe some of the most vulnerable populations and their representatives based on an and healthy return to work aims to assist in the world’. assessment of occupational health risks governments, as well as employers’ and On May 29 2020, WHO and the and epidemiological situation; return to workers’ organizations, in developing International Labour Organization (ILO) work should take place in a phased and national policy guidance for a phased hosted a webinar on returning to work in controlled manner; sufficient resources and safe return to work, and provide the context of COVID-19. must be put in place, and policies should guidelines for the workplace -level risk As slowly businesses are restarting, be revisited and adapted as the situation assessments and implementation of workers and employees must confront changes. preventive and protective measures— a range of occupational safety and Existing labour standards provide which are summarized in the ILO’s health hazards not limited to the risk a normative framework for countries ten action points tool on COVID-19, of COVID-19 transmission, including and employers to develop policies and including specific guidance for different psychosocial risks related to fear stigma guidance. Many of the issues raised sectors WHO has produced a scientific and job insecurity. Safety measures to by COVID-19 are already covered brief on modes of transmission of reduce transmission of COVID-19will be comprehensively by ILO conventions and COVID-19.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 47 event

The 51st Indian Achievers Forum (IAF) awards were given at the summit jointly organized by IAF and CSR Times. The event -- National Brand and Marketing Summit and Awards 2020—was graced by Shri Prahalad Singh Patel, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture and Shri Sanjay Dhotre, Union Minister of State for HRD and IT. They also gave away the awards to the achievers. An MoU was also signed by IAF and Ministry of Electronics and IT to promote startups and MSMEs at the event attended by more than 200 delegates from India and abroad.

Magneum agneum has geared up to embrace program online, which includes Channel Mthe change in consumer behaviour Engagement, Training on new schemes due to COVID 19 and taken its entire sales & offering interaction-based process online for many of its consulting Incentives to our partners, which was all partners like the done On-Site before,” says Tarun Sainani, Co-Founder at Magneum. Ace Group The firm claims that they have “We have completely shifted our lead observed, a much higher percentage generation to online platforms with of closures through digital interactions demographic targeting using new-age compared to physical site visits as the analytics tools. Our digital footfalls have only the interested prospects are taking already reached ~70% of our typical site out time to enquire, are focussed in their footfalls. We have been able to ‘virtually’ Magneum is a unique Strategy discussion and can make a decision faster meet and interact with these prospects Management Firm having experience as they now have much more research through innovative use of technology, across the Real Estate Value Chain, and time and all stakeholders are ‘home’ and explaining them our offerings in great has been providing its expertise to create together. detail from shortlisting an inventory to lasting value for the Developers. “For us, this is now the new normal, and making online payments,” says Deepak “With the help of new-age tools, we feel the future holds very promising Bhatia, Co-Founder at Magneum. we have taken our channel partner opportunities”, says Mr. Bhatia. Pratyaksha Agrotech Pvt. Ltd. s the crisis begins due to pandemic sliding, agricultural future, feels Pratyaksha Agrotech Pvt. Ltd. Asectors will go through a crucial phase which will also The most prudent diversification, post-COVID, will be influence the long-term financial calendars of our country. to fill up the spaces vacated by other countries and use the The services in other sectors such as food processing, dairy & situation to push the exports to a global level. In this current fishery farmings are also equally disturbed. Pratyaksha scenario, development of agri-scientific platform can Agrotech Pvt. Ltd. is an MSME recognised starup be a new paradigm in the field of the technological from Assam. world with a major focus on valuing the integrity at The export of major perishable and high valued its core. Availing the ever-growing techniques, plant agricultural commodities has also been severely tissue culture can provide the most efficient solutions affected. Likewise, the import of essential goods, i.e. edible to develop mature disease-free and economically viable plants oil and floriculture products, have also fallen severely as and their copies at a faster pace even in the absence of seeds. compared to pre-COVID demands. Amidst these frightful The ultimate focus in future will be to protect the agricultural times, it is necessary to gain an insight into the positive aspect realm and the economic infrastructure by regular updation to create a global stage for the upcoming harsh timelines in during and after such unceasing crisis.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 48 event

Rplanet

planet will explore the sustainable business model, which will support the RIndian economy. It is aimed not only to create revenue but also create lakhs of green job during this slow down period, and the fight with Covid-19 pandemic. “While saving the economy first, then stabilize it to a growth level. We will encourage all startups to join hands and take this assignment to create a sustainable circular economy,” says Mr. Manoj Sahu, Founder MD & CEO of Rplanet. Rplanet had started its journey as a PRO (Producer Responsibility Organisation) in 2018. Now the only player creates a roadmap from PRO to Integrated Recycler which is carefully designed state of the art technology along with an undisruptive web-based technology to create a market place to function B2B, B2C, C2C, C2B at a higher level of sophistication that is much needed to process electronic and plastic wastes. They have also implemented reverse logistics for recycling of E-waste as well as plastic waste to diminish threats to our environment to a level as low as possible. Rplanet is that its efforts are appreciated and hopes to get support from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Fund (WEEE Fund) that had recently announced that it would be providing more than £5 millions of financial backing to electronic waste recyclers during the Covid-19 pandemic in the form of its WEEE Support Grants and Loans Package.

IQLECT

nly technology can help to maintain COVID 19 at with the future innovation “NoSQL + AI+ Stream” to gain Oa distance has been amply demonstrated during the insights with data in a continuous real-time manner,” says last few months, which makes firms like IQLECT a critical IQLECT’s Founder & CEO Mr Sachin Sinha. He is business venture, that uses Real-time Predictive Analytics also the author of BangDB, the latest version for BangDB platform powered by Artificial Intelligence and Machine embedded and server. IQLECT’s BangDB is designed for Learning, enabling and equipping operational intelligence solving challenges for most businesses by implementing a in the data-driven world. wide variety of use-cases that can be custom made for an It is helping organizations to improve overall business organization utilizing the platform. Users and developers efficiency through revenue, customer engagement and can build solutions on top of it. building brand trust. IQLECT’s platform enables businesses “The platform is designed to allow businesses to deal to build their custom use-cases in a time-accelerated and effectively with the new and upcoming challenges by straightforward manner on cloud or on-premise. The solving new problems with the new technology,” says platform can capture, analyze patterns & amp; data and Sinha. More data created by devices and systems in real- transmit a wide variety of insights with efficiency. time is processed and analyzed with the same speed to gain “IQLECT’s real-time predictive analytics platform aligns more insights.

CSR TIMES | JUNE 2020 | 49 Organic food NATURE BIO FOODS (NBF) The Company has a mission to deliver “Pure & Healthy” quality products to the global consumers by following environmentally safe production techniques and using agri-ingredients that secures the Socio-Economic development of All Involved. It is an amazing story of serving people with a cause.

BF is a wholly-owned subsidiary of & amp; with NBF’s Sustainability fund; NLT Foods Group, is now emerged as it is contributing to the farmers’ well- one of the leading producers of organic being through multiple development food in India. Over the last two decades, projects. The initiatives include water NBF has been practising organic food revitalization, safe water drinking production with sheer dedication. program, children’s education, The company provides 100% Organic Environment conservation, Rural Rice, Pulses, Spices, Cereals, Nuts, Development and Agri productivity Oilseeds and Superfoods to the consumer enhancement projects and many others. through an integrated sustainable business model that supports approximately 60000 Foothold in EUROPE AND farming families covering 14 states AMERICA making it one of the leading producers The company is already catering to in the organic space in India. NBF is Germany, Holland, Italy, France, Austria, working on an area of about 60,000 the USA, hectares, one of the largest organic land Canada, Australia, New Zealand, banks of any company today. the UAE, and Israel. Nature Bio Foods Nature Bio Foods believe that also has local offices and facilities in combining fair trade principles in the Europe & America which facilitate ease business is the most all stakeholders in the supply chain right of access and processing operations for essential tools for reaching the holistic from the farmers to the consumers. servicing the partners till the last mile & winning goal. NBF is ensuring Nature Bio Foods has developed of the supply chain. To ensure that the the Sustainability in its organic business an innovative economic model to help customers receive nothing but the best, with the radical change & leadership farmers achieve financial Sustainability all of our products are strictly adhere to in the supply chain with the long term and increase their net incomes. Improving global organic quality benchmarks and planning, training, education & crop productivity; using resources are produced with the highest possible development of the farming community efficiently to cut the cost of production; standards of food safety and hygiene. as a whole, and company partnering with increasing crop intensity; diversifying NBF is looking forward to putting each other to continuously improve the towards high-value crops; integrated more hard work to make sure it gives socio-economic conditions, creating community development, increase off- back to the community and the Earth. a better environment for living and farm income and finally, improving the Whether, that is to the land and the soil, connecting it to the consumers with original prices received by farmers. their people or the farmers For Nature value-added organic products. With an innate desire to support the Bio Foods, Sustainability is more than For Nature Bio Foods, Organic means real heroes -the farmers, Nature Bio just a commercial need; it is an essential the future of India and the world at large, Foods has also tied up with Fair Trade responsibility which is evident in all our as it represents a win-win situation for practices and through premium generated undertakings over the years.

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