Rajesh Krishnan - Business News Week

news

United Way Bengaluru partners with Continental to Transform Karnataka Public School in Anekal

Nov 19, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #Anekal, #computer labs, #Continental, #digital classrooms, #Karnataka Public School, #KPS Anekal, #Rajesh Krishnan, #SAMATVA, #STEM labs, #United Way Bengaluru

Bengaluru | November 19th, 2024 – United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) in partnership with Continental, has launched an ambitious school adoption program at Karnataka Public School (KPS) in Anekal, with a ground-breaking ceremony marking the start of this significant initiative. The program, part of the Government of Karnataka’s SAMATVA Initiative, is a multi-year commitment aimed at transforming government schools to improve infrastructure and educational quality for students across the state.

This project follows a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Karnataka, Continental, and UWBe. Established in 1947, KPS Anekal currently faces challenges in accommodating its growing student body and providing essential facilities such as labs and sports areas. This initiative targets critical improvements in infrastructure, such as classroom renovations and new constructions, ensuring that KPS Anekal, currently having a strength of 855 students and 30 teachers becomes a model of a safe, accessible, and well-equipped education centre.

The transformation plan also includes the integration of advanced learning resources, such as STEM labs, digital classrooms, and computer labs, to enhance academic engagement and support students’ skill development. Improvements to WaSH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities are also a key part of the program, ensuring students have access to clean and safe amenities. Additionally, sports facilities will be expanded, emphasizing holistic development and encouraging physical fitness.

SAMATVA, a flagship initiative by the Government of Karnataka, seeks to close resource gaps and create equal educational opportunities for all. Through this partnership, Continental and UWBe aim to support this vision, creating a nurturing environment where students can realize their full potential.

“We are thrilled to begin another impactful initiative in our ongoing partnership with Continental. The association has driven real change and meaningful development at the grassroots. We are transforming Karnataka Public School into an inclusive place where creativity, and personal growth can flourish, aligning with both community priorities and government goals” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO of United Way Bengaluru”.

news

United Way Bengaluru and AMD India enable digital classrooms in Davangere

Bengaluru, 23rd October 2024: United Way Bengaluru (UWB) in partnership with Zila Panchayat, Davangere supported by Advanced Micro Devices India Pvt. Ltd. (AMD), has set up digital classrooms enhancing coaching for students in Davangere district. These smart classrooms have been set up in 21 Pre-University Government colleges in the district.

The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) by the National Testing Agency (NTA) under the Ministry of Education (MoE), Govt. of India is the basis for students entering the engineering stream. Considered as one of the toughest examinations in India, the JEE is the gateway for pursuing engineering as a career for students. In recent years, the quality of coaching has become a crucial factor in the probability of students getting a college and stream of their choice. Many students have to move cities to get quality training which uproots them from their family and local communities; it is also a large financial burden for the families to sustain such an effort. These barriers are a key reason many students find it difficult to score well in the JEE.

Recognizing this gap in the system, the Zila Panchayat, Davangere embarked on bringing world-class infrastructure available in the metros to Davangere by expanding access to technology with new smart classrooms. The ease of access and locally available infrastructure aim to bring quality training infrastructure to those who otherwise could not afford to travel to metros and to girls who have an interest but could not find coaching infrastructure locally.

Smart Classroom 3

It is anticipated that more than 6500 students studying in Davangere will benefit from these digital classrooms.

Speaking on the occasion Ms. Gunjan Krishna (IAS), Commissioner for Industrial Development and Director, Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Karnataka said, “Enhancing opportunities by providing quality learning is the cornerstone of increasing the per capita income of the district. The children in Davangere have the talent to outshine their peers if we can give them the same infrastructure that the others have. The effort made by United Way Bengaluru and AMD to come together and help enhance the possibilities for children from the district to become engineers is laudable.”

Jaya Jagadish, Country Head, AMD India & SVP, Silicon Design Engineering said, “No child must have to live with the regret that they did not get the opportunity to make their life better. At AMD we draw from the societies we live in and Davangere is a prime example of how companies like AMD can build stronger and more resilient fraternities which contribute to nation building. Through our Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, AMD provides many such enablement in STEM leadership for students. We are proud to have this opportunity to give back to society.”

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru said, “United Way connects partners, donors, volunteers, and community leaders to tackle the root causes of the world’s most complex challenges while making a positive impact in the lives of millions of people. Together we are taking meaningful steps promoting inclusive and accessible education, ensuring that students have the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital age. The initiative of the Zila Panchayat will go a long way in bridging the gap and building talent while scaling the incomes in Davangere.”

news

Police campuses in Bengaluru to have 590 Percolation Wells

Sep 12, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #CAR (City Armed Reserve) North, #CAR Headquarters, #Centre for Counter-Terrorism, #Karnataka State Reserved Police 9th Battalion, #KSRP 1st Battalion, #One Billion Drops, #Police campuses, #Rajesh Krishnan

Bengaluru, September 12th, 2024: Mphasis and United Way Bengaluru officially announced the launch of the “One Billion Drops” campaign at five police campuses in Bengaluru, including CAR (City Armed Reserve) North, Karnataka State Reserved Police 9th Battalion, Centre for Counter-Terrorism, CAR Headquarters, and KSRP 1st Battalion. This year, 590 percolation wells will be constructed across these locations.

UWBe- Mphasis Foundation_Project Launch 222

The event was attended by the Commissioner of Police, Bangalore City, Mr. B Dayananda, who commended the initiative for its significant contribution to Bengaluru’s water sustainability.

The “One Billion Drops” initiative addresses climate-change-related issues through percolation wells designed to capture rainwater at the point of impact. This approach reduces surface runoff, prevents floods, and conserves water by slowing its flow. The campaign is pivotal in restoring Bengaluru’s water resources, replenishing groundwater, and maintaining soil moisture to support the city’s green cover.

“I wholeheartedly appreciate the proactive support of Mphasis and United Way of Bengaluru for coming forward to make our police campuses water-neutral through their CSR initiatives. Your commitment to sustainability is a shining example of community policing in action. Together, we are not only ensuring a greener future for our personnel and the community but also setting a benchmark for responsible governance. Thank you for your invaluable partnership in this noble endeavour,” said B. Dayananda, Commissioner of Police, Bengaluru City.

“Our ongoing partnership with United Way Bengaluru has empowered us to address global environmental challenges like climate change while making significant strides in reviving the state’s biodiversity. The ‘One Billion Drops’ campaign remains a powerful initiative in rainwater conservation and sustainability, demonstrating our commitment to a greener future,” said Deepa Nagaraj, Senior Vice President and Head – ESG & CSR, Sparkle Innovation Ecosystem and Communications

“Rooted in a community-driven approach, the ‘One Billion Drops’ campaign represents a scalable and replicable model that promotes ecological sustainability and resilience against climate change. By harnessing the power of collaboration between corporate entities, NGOs and government bodies, this initiative is setting a new standard for climate action and water conservation,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO of United Way Bengaluru.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Prime Minister’s National Water Mission initiative, “Catch the Rain, Where it Falls, When it Falls.” Each percolation well can conserve up to 128,000 litres of rainwater annually, directly enhancing groundwater levels in their respective catchment areas.

Once known as the Garden City, Bengaluru now faces the harsh realities of India’s climate crisis, dealing with severe groundwater depletion, erratic rainfall, and a shrinking green cover. In response to these growing challenges, Mphasis, through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, has partnered with United Way Bengaluru to drive an impactful campaign called “One Billion Drops”.

Since 2022, Mphasis has supported the creation of 1,338 percolation wells across Bengaluru, including in major parks and the iconic Lalbagh Botanical Garden. These percolation wells can conserve approximately 175,284 kiloliters of rainwater annually, making a significant contribution to the city’s water resources and environmental health. These wells have benefitted 251,000 members of the community. In the coming years, the goal is to reach out to approximately 225,000 beneficiaries by creating 1200 wells by 2026.

news

Marvell Collaborates With United Way Bengaluru‘s’Rural Rising’ Initiative towards Sustainable Development in Bagepalli taluk of Chikkaballapura District, Karnataka

Jun 18, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #'Rural Rising, #Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), #AWCs., #Bagepalli Taluk Govt. Hospital, #Bharathi Kanuj, #CEO, #Education, #female students., #Ganesh Karnatakam, #gram panchayat., #Guluru Gram Panchayat., #health, #Human Development Index (HDI), #Hygiene (WASH), #Laxman Thanda villages, #Marvell, #Marvell India Country Manager., #Marvell India CSR Head, #Marvell India Finance Control, #menstrual health and hygiene, #Mission Anthodya, #Navin Bishnoi, #NGO partner United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), #Pravin Kumar UWBe Rural Projects Lead, #Rajesh Krishnan, #renewable energy, #safe drinking water, #Sanitary napkins, #Sanitation, #Sriram Ananthanarayanan UWBe Director or Projects, #Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs), #United Way Bengaluru, #United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), #Varun Kumar UWBe Corporate Relations, #Water, #well-being

Bengaluru, June 18, 2024: Marvell, in collaboration with NGO partner United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), is driving an impactful intervention, ‘Rural Rising’, an integrated rural development program, in the Chikkaballapura District of Karnataka. The program is designed to meet the Mission Anthodya and Human Development Index (HDI) indicators, validated through an in-depth needs assessment in collaboration with local authorities and community members.

This intervention addresses fundamental needs across key thematic areas, including education, health and well-being, safe drinking water, and renewable energy in the Guluru Gram Panchayat.

Marvel - United Way Bengaluru Rural Rising 2

Under the initiative, an ambulance is provided to Bagepalli Taluk Govt. Hospital, which caters to a catchment population of 1,20,000+ people and lacked a dedicated ambulance. Two new Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) have been constructed alongside the setting up of kitchen gardens and provisioning of Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) in the AWCs. Based on the need, a government school has been strengthened through refurbishment support, making the environment conducive to learning.

To address the need for a functional toilet facility, a new toilet has been constructed and an incinerator has been provided to a government school. Additionally, the initiative focuses on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) component, particularly for raising awareness about menstrual health and hygiene among female students. Sanitary napkins have been distributed in five schools.

To ensure the availability of safe drinking water, three water purifier units have been installed in Anjinapura and Laxman Thanda villages, and at a government school, benefiting numerous households and students. In commitment to renewable energy, 150 solar streetlights have been successfully installed at strategic locations across the gram panchayat.

The intervention has reached over 5,285 direct beneficiaries and numerous indirect beneficiaries.

Today marked a significant day as key stakeholders involved in the initiative came together to officially announce the launch of the intervention. Key delegates present included Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager, Ms. Bharathi Kanuj, Marvell India CSR Head and Mr. Ganesh Karnatakam, Marvell India Finance Controller, Sriram Ananthanarayanan UWBe Director or Projects, Varun Kumar UWBe Corporate Relations, Pravin Kumar UWBe Rural Projects Lead.

“Convergence and collaboration are key elements for achieving lasting effects. The Rural Rising initiative has demonstrated the power of bringing together Gram Panchayat, NGO, corporate and community members towards a shared goal,”, said, Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager.

“Prioritising the need to invest in rural development, the Rural Rising program intends to build self-sustainable rural communities with assured access to quality education, better health and well-being, safe drinking water, and a clean environment. We are grateful to our CSR partner, Marvell, and the local community for supporting us since the inception of the program at Guluru Gram Panchayat.“, said, Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, of United Way Bengaluru.

About United Way Bengaluru (UWBe)

UWBe is an NGO focused on social issues that seek immediate and long-term attention. United Way Bengaluru marked a significant milestone this year as it completed its 15-year journey. As a part of the global network, United Way Worldwide, the largest network of non-profit organizations with 1,100 chapters in 37 countries, United Way Bengaluru carries a global image with a ‘local heart’ committed to creating meaningful change in the lives of the local communities. True to the organization’s mission “To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world”, UWBe catalyzes unified efforts from corporates, civic bodies, and citizen associations to bring about visible and sustainable change in the lives of the communities. The organization works in four key areas – environment, education, healthcare, and rural development.

business

Bajaj Allianz Life enhances its focus on NRI customers, celebrates one-year anniversary in UAE

Jun 13, 2024 by Gayathri Pariti 0 Comments #Bajaj Allianz Life, #NRI customers, #NRI employees, #NRIs in the UAE, #One of India’s leading private life insurances, #One-year anniversary in UAE, #Rajesh, #Rajesh Krishnan

June 13, Pune: Bajaj Allianz Life, one of India’s leading private life insurances, has brought several noteworthy features and services to its NRI customers, including an expanded medical test network across several countries. This global network enables NRIs to get their pre-policy health check-ups at one of Bajaj Allianz Life’s approved medical test facilities across the globe or even from the comfort of their homes. . Furthermore, the Company today commemorates first anniversary of its representative office in Dubai, UAE .

Bajaj Allianz Life’s several innovations and digital transformation have provided customers with user-friendly platforms for policy management, claims processing, and customer support. The Company has also simplified its claims processes through digital claims submissions, ensuring quick and efficient claims settlement. Other services that have contributed to growth of NRI employees are – the inclusion of auto-payments of policy premiums through credit cards issued by international banks, a dedicated NRI desk, digitized on-boarding processes, and customer support via video calls, self-service through WhatsApp, live chat, and a responsive call centre that caters to different time zones.

Rajesh Krishnan, Chief Operations & Customer Experience Officer at Bajaj Allianz Life, said. “We understand that our NRI customers have specific requirements and we have been consistently working to provide them with the right products and a differentiated service architecture. Our focused initiatives, especially over the last few years, have led to encouraging growth in our NRI customer base. This success drives us to continuously improve our offerings and deliver customer delight consistently across all our service touchpoints. We are proud to be a trusted Life Goals enabler for NRIs in the UAE and across the GCC region.”

Bajaj Allianz Life’s stellar reputation as a private life insurer has been built on the back of a strong presence in India. With a customer-first approach and a goal to deliver best-in-class services to Dubai’s Non-Resident Indian (NRI) population, Bajaj Allianz Life established its first representative office in Dubai in June 2023. This one-year milestone is significant for the Company as it reaffirms its strong commitment towards UAE as a priority geography.

The establishment of its representative office in Dubai has significantly strengthened the Company’s footprint in the GCC region over the last year. The move has enabled Bajaj Allianz Life to provide enhanced service and support to a growing customer base that is interested in investing in long-term financial products like life insurance from India.

“Our first year in the UAE has been a testament of our commitment to customer experience and innovation,” Rajesh said. “The positive response from our NRI customers motivates us to continue enhancing our services and product offerings. Our Dubai office has allowed us to provide seamless policy assistance and support to our customers. We look forward to building on this success and are encouraged to further strengthen our presence in the GCC region.”

As one of the leading life insurance partner for NRIs, Bajaj Allianz Life continues to emphasize the value of opting for Indian life insurance, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and tailored services for the Indian diaspora in Gulf countries. The company continues to enhance its offerings, ensuring that NRIs receive unparalleled support and comprehensive coverage which can enable them to achieve their life goals.

business

United Way Bengaluru Launches ‘Mangroves Matter’: A Campaign to Restore Mangrove Ecosystems Started revitalizing mangrove ecosystems at Pulicat near Chennai

Mangroves at Pulicat 2

Bengaluru, May 27, 2024: Recent reports indicate a staggering loss of about 35% of mangroves between 1996 and 2010 highlighting a concerning trend in environmental degradation. Mangrove ecosystems play a significant role in stabilizing coastlines, making their preservation crucial for the environment and inhabitants. Mangroves are a natural solution to climate change, the paramount global threat. They can sequester carbon at a rate five times greater than tropical forests.

Responding to this urgent need, United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) has launched an ambitious and impactful campaign, ‘ Mangroves Matter’, to revitalize mangrove ecosystems. The first foot is at Pulicat or Pazhaverkadu, a coastal town near Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Known as the ‘jungle of roots‘ in Tamil, Pulicat encompasses a vast expanse of 720 sq. km, constituting India’s second-largest brackish water body. Rampant destruction of mangrove vegetation by human activities and natural causes has led to a massive reduction in the lake’s depth from 3.8m to 2m. This ecological decline has endangered biodiversity and threatened the livelihoods of local fisherfolk dependent on the mangrove ecosystem.

The ‘Mangroves Matter’ campaign was officially launched on World Wetlands Day, 2024, with a bold vision to rewild approximately 10 lakh mangroves across 100 acres in the Pulicat region alone. In addition to their environmental advantages, the campaign will closely work with the Irula community, opening up livelihood opportunities for them and boosting the local economy by supporting the cultivation of shrimp and fish species. The project also includes removal of acres of Prosopis ( Karuvelam ), an invasive species which has destroyed the local flora and soil ecosystems.

Sriram Ananthanarayanan, Director-Projects, UWBe, said, “I am glad that many of our Corporate CSR partners have come forward to support this campaign with a shared vision towards environmental commitment. Notably, our CSR partner, Mphasis, has pledged their support to this cause, dedicating the rewilding of mangroves on 70 acres in Pulicat. “

Looking ahead, United Way Bengaluru envisions extending the campaign’s reach to other regions, including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala. Upholding its mission of “mobilizing the caring power of communities,” the organization calls upon organizations from different industries to join hands in supporting this vital mission for the preservation of the planet’s precious ecosystems.

Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, UWBe, said, “COP28 made significant progress towards securing the Mangrove Breakthrough’s goal of 15 million hectares of mangroves underpinned by USD 4 billion new investments by 2030. I am super excited that United Way Bengaluru is among the very few organisations who have taken this initiative. ‘Mangroves Matter’ is aligned with the aspiration of COP28, which calls out the responsibility of the State, corporations, local people, community, NGOs and other stakeholders to deliver the Breakthrough.”

news

From Aspiration to Action: ‘Rural Rising’ brings positive change in Wayanad’s Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, Sulthan Bathery Block, Kerala

Mar 25, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #'Rural Rising, #Anganwadi Centres, #Anganwadi Workers, #CEO, #Cooked Meal intervention, #CSR initiative, #NGO United Way of Bengaluru (UWBe), #Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, #Rajesh Krishnan, #Renu Raj IAS, #United Way Bengaluru

Rural Rising Wayanad

Broadcom, under its CSR initiative, in collaboration with NGO United Way of Bengaluru (UWBe) and Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, proudly announced the official inauguration of the ‘Rural Rising,’ an innovative integrated rural development program at Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat in Sultan Bathery block, Wayanad. The Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat has a population of 14,133. It is the second largest tribal-populated gram panchayat in the state. Recognizing the pressing need for comprehensive interventions, ‘Rural Rising’, an integrated rural rising program, was kickstarted.

Grounded in a meticulous need assessment, the initiative strategically addresses critical needs such as the health and nutritional needs of children through a unique Cooked Meal intervention and early education facilities for children.

Addressing the health and nutritional needs of children, particularly those malnourished and from the tribal communities, the Cooked Meal intervention was conceived to ensure the availability and accessibility of nutritious meals three times a day, six days a week, benefiting 315 children across 26 Anganwadi Centres. Six Community Kitchens have also started in six Anganwadi Centers, involving mothers in food preparation to foster healthier food habits at home.

Fifteen nutrition promoters, serving as influencers, are actively engaged in community mobilization under this initiative. They play a crucial role in conducting awareness sessions for mothers emphasizing the importance of consuming healthy and nutritious meals.

The positive outcome of the Cooked Meal intervention is evident, with a substantial improvement in children who were initially underweight. In September 2023, 79% reached a normal height-to-weight ratio, marking a positive trend with 81% in October and an impressive 85% in November.

Addressing the need to create a conducive early learning environment for children, 26 Anganwadi Centres have been revamped, aligning with ICDS guidelines. The transformation of Anganwadi Centres to safe and conducive learning spaces includes new facilities and services, infrastructure support, and the establishment of play areas.

Recognizing the crucial role of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs), the ‘Rural Rising’ initiative also focussed on building the capacities of 200 AWWs and AWHs in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) related skills. This is helping to enhance the quality of services at the AWCs and interactions between caregivers and children, making the entire Anganwadi ecosystem child-friendly.

As expressed by one of the retd. Anganwadi Workers, “In my 39 years of service, I have seen many AWCs located in the forest area grapple with challenges. Today, I express heartfelt gratitude for the positive changes in the AWCs – the introduction of play areas and other improvements ensures a nurturing and vibrant environment for children’s growth and well-being. “

For the initiative, a new milestone was achieved today, as one of the refurbished Anganwadi Centres was inaugurated in the presence of Dr. Renu Raj IAS, the District Collector and District Magistrate, who was present at the event. Dr. Raj said, “Ensuring kids aged 0-6 grow up in a safe and nurturing environment is crucial. This early phase is a big chance for positive development. Investing and putting effort into these early years can build the foundation for a thriving society in the next 20 years.”

Other delegates present today included govt. officials from the Women and Child Development Department, representatives of the Panchayat and team from United Way Bengaluru.

“The intervention is designed on a ‘convergence model,’ focussing on the strength of every stakeholder. In partnership with the local administration and our CSR partner Broadcom, this collaborative effort is significantly contributing to SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being and SDG 4 – Quality Education,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

business

Rural Rising: United Way Bengaluru and Applied Materials India commit to sustainable development in Kolar

Feb 14, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #Applied Materials India, #Rajesh Krishnan, #Sarika Rath, #United Way Bengaluru, #United Way Bengaluru (UWBe)

Bengaluru, 14 February 2024: United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), along with corporate partner Applied Materials India today inaugurated an integrated rural development drive in Mulbagal taluk in Kolar district. The Rural Rising program primarily focused on enhancing the living standards of rural communities and improving available resources to ensure a sustainable, long-term impact on their lives. Attended by delegates from both organizations, the event featured cultural performances and presentations of science projects by some of the young bright minds.

Students presenting their science project

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rajesh Krishnan, CEO of United Way Bengaluru, said, “The Rural Rising program is a unique and one-of-its-kind initiative. The saturation approach, which focuses on Gram Panchayat to block and district-level development, makes it a very organized, sustained, and sustainable impact-driven process. I particularly thank our corporate partner, Applied Materials India, who had the vision to make a difference by investing in areas that needed help.”

Speaking on the collaboration, Sarika Rath, Head of Communications & Public Affairs at Applied Materials India said, “We endeavor to create a positive and sustainable impact in India’s rural communities through our Rural Rising program. Convergence and collaboration are two key elements for achieving a positive impact and these programs help us to achieve the same. Our purpose drives everything we do, shaped by our Values and reflected in our actions.”

Since 2015, Applied Materials India has been supporting over 200 villages across Bangarpete, Kolar, and Srinivaspur blocks in the Kolar district, and reaching out to over 1.5 lakh beneficiaries directly. Following successful initiatives in these blocks, the focus transitioned to Mulbagal Taluk, marking the second consecutive year of involvement in the taluk, this year.

Rural Rising has been United Way Bengaluru‘s flagship program that has demonstrated the potency of bringing together Gram Panchayats, local communities, volunteers, NGOs, and corporations towards a shared objective. The program is designed to meet the Mission Anthodya and Human Development Index (HDI) indicators, validated through an in-depth needs assessment in collaboration with local authorities and community members. The program’s emphasis extends across critical pillars of Education, Health, Livelihood, Women Empowerment, and Environment.

business

Herbalife and United Way Bengaluru’s CSR Commitment to Transforms Lives in Vadavalli Gram Panchayat, Sultanpet Block, Coimbatore

Jan 29, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #Ajay Khanna, #Coimbatore, #Herbalife, #Rajesh Krishnan, #Sultanpet Block, #United Way, #United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), #Vadavalli Gram Panchayat

Coimbatore, January 29, 2024: In collaboration with NGO partner United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) and Vadavalli Gram Panchayat, in the Sulthanpet block of Coimbatore, Herbalife successfully rolled out an important initiative called Rural Rising, an integrated rural development program. Herbalife has continuously supported the program for the last three years in other districts of Karnataka and the Wayanad district of Kerala.

Herbalife Pic

Vadavalli Gram Panchayat, with a Human Development Index well below the state average, faced challenges in various areas. To complement the Gram Panchayat’s efforts, the Rural Rising initiative addressed critical needs such as education, health and hygiene, water, livelihood, and clean energy, areas where communities encountered significant challenges.

Today marked a significant milestone as the initiatives rolled out last year were inaugurated with distinguished guests, including, Honourable Additional Collector; Shri Vijaya Kumar and Smt. Revathi, Block Development Officers from Sultanpet Shri E. Francis Charles, Assistant Educational Officer; Smt. Murugeshwari, DPO, Sulthanpet; Govinda Raj, Panchayat President from Vadavalli; , Regional Head Herbalife, and United Way Bengaluru team.

Under Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), the initiative rolled out a program called Born Learning Campaign to create a conducive learning and development environment in Vadavalli and Akkanaickenpalayam Anganwadi Centres (AWCs). This involved upgrading AWCs, providing teaching and learning resources, establishing libraries, and enhancing the capacity of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers through ECCE training. Additionally, one Nutrition Garden was developed in an Anganwadi Centre, along with the creation of 10 household-level kitchen gardens. A total of 663 Nutrition kits were distributed to children and their families.

As part of the School Empowerment Initiative, support was provided to Akkanaickenpalayam Govt Primary School and High School. This included setting up solar-powered classrooms, contribution of library books, renovating staff rooms and classrooms, toilets for girls and boys and providing an incinerator for girls, meeting the schools’ specific requirements.

Awareness sessions were conducted as part of the hygiene intervention, and 228 hygiene kits were distributed to students and school staff. The awareness sessions helped students understand the importance of hygiene in their daily routines. The interactive session covered vital practices, such as handwashing before and after meals, maintaining clean and trimmed nails, and regular teeth brushing. During a follow-up community visit, it was discovered that children consistently used the kits, adhering to the instructions provided during the awareness session and educating their parents about hygiene and sanitation.

An Overhead Tank (OHT) was installed in collaboration with the Panchayat to ensure quality drinking water. A 60,000-litre OHT tank was constructed with the installation of pipelines, benefiting 250 households and enhancing the availability and accessibility of drinking water.

Support was provided to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) under the livelihood and inclusion initiative. Eleven PWDs received livestock, three individuals received mobility vehicles, and a school-going boy received a hearing aid.

In the interest of renewable energy, 50 solar streetlights were installed. These solar streetlights enhanced safety and security for villagers and triggered a ripple effect of economic and social benefits, uplifting the entire community. In one of the many cases, Saranya, a beautician, faced challenges due to inadequate lighting until solar streetlights changed everything. Previously, commuting during early or late hours was challenging, relying on family members for accompaniment. Well-lit streets now allow her to work longer hours without fear, transforming her family’s financial condition. Supporting a family of six, Saranya can now invest in her business, expand services, and hire women from her village, contributing to the economic growth of her community.

A total of 1631 people will be directly benefitted through this initiative.

“Our approach is not just implementing good initiatives; it’s about empowering communities to take ownership, ensuring sustainability far beyond our involvement. The Rural Rising Program exemplifies our vision. In collaboration with our CSR partner, we created a sustainable legacy of positive change in the community by engaging and developing the capacities of local administration and community members, formed strategic partnerships, and meticulously planned for maintenance.”, said Rajesh Krishnan, Chief Executive Officer, United Way of Bengaluru.

Ajay Khanna, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Herbalife India, said, “Our vision, shared with United Way Bengaluru, has transformed lives across Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu for over three years. Today, Vadavalli Gram Panchayat in Coimbatore stands as a testament to that commitment. From upgraded Anganwadis to empowered PWDs, each milestone fuels our confidence. We see families securing livelihoods and children armed with renewed dignity and hope, inspiring us to push forward, building a brighter future, together.”

Tag: Rajesh Krishnan