India's agriculture sector plays a pivotal role in the country's economic progress. The increased food demand in local and global markets has opened up enormous opportunities for farmers yet they continue to face challenges such as small and declining land holdings, price instability, soil degradation, and climate risks. Various service providers, such as private agribusiness firms and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), must be involved in the transmission of agricultural technologies with information, skills, and expertise, while also leveraging Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.

Despite the fact that companies have spent CSR funds in the agriculture industry, there still lies a significant opportunity for investment in this sector. Companies can create CSR projects to help farmers enhance their crops and earn more income. Such investments will aid the agriculture sector's growth and development. 

Below are some of the Agricultural projects in India based on the CSR funds allocation of each company in the Financial Year 2020-21.

1. ITC Limited

Source: ITC Limited

 

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: PAN India

Name of the Initiate: Improved Agricultural Practices. 

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 36.34 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 352.84 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 365.43 Cr.

The Company contributed to CSR by contributing towards improved Agriculture practices. The Sustainable Agriculture programme attempts to de-risk farmers from erratic weather events through the promotion of climate-smart agriculture premised on the dissemination of relevant packages of practices, adoption of appropriate mechanisation, and provision of institutional services. Currently, 8.81 lakh acres are covered under the programme, which has a significant multiplier effect in terms of adoption by the farming community. During the year, knowledge was disseminated through 5,969 Farmer Field Schools and 2,253 Choupal Pradarshan Khets benefiting 2.54 lakh farmers. 401 Agri-Business Centres delivered extension services, arranged Agri-credit linkages and established collective input procurement, and provided agricultural equipment for hire. In pursuit of your Company’s long-term sustainability objective of increasing soil organic carbon, a total of 2,801 compost units were constructed during the year, taking the total number to date to 48,767 units.

Implementing Partner: Adarsh Yuva Samiti, BAIF Development Research Foundation, Bandhan - Konnagar, Dhan (Development of Humane Action) Foundation, Deepam Rural Development Charitable Trust, Development Support Centre, Society of Indian Institute for Rural Development

Brief about the Company:

ITC Limited is an Indian multinational conglomerate company headquartered in Kolkata, West Bengal. Established in 1910 as the 'Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited', the company was renamed as the 'India Tobacco Company Limited' in 1970 and later to 'I.T.C. Limited' in 1974. The dots in the name were removed in September 2001 for the company to be renamed as 'ITC Limited' where 'ITC' would no longer be an initialism. The company completed 100 years in 2010 and as of 2012–13, had an annual turnover of US$8.31 billion and a market capitalization of US$52 billion. It employs over 30,000 people at more than 60 locations across India and is part of Forbes 2000 list.

More about ITC Limited’s CSR Portfolio

 

2. JSW Steel Limited:

Source: JSW Steel

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: 

Name of the Initiate: Community Development

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 13.41 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 164.81 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 78.32 Cr. 

The Company contributed to CSR by contributing towards General community infrastructure support & welfare initiatives. JSW Foundation closely works with 6000+ farmers covering 5,800 acres of cultivable land through a participatory approach striving to align to local, national, and global goals (Sustainable Development Goals) while aiming to increase farm and off-farm incomes. This is achieved through capacity building of the farmers, promoting an improved package of practices, advocating less water-intensive farming techniques, and forging strategic partnerships. The emphasis is on the market-led sustainable enhancement of profits to make Agri-livelihoods a preferred mode of occupation.

Implementing Partner: JSW Foundation

Brief about the Company: 

With the largest product portfolio in steel, JSW Steel is India's largest steel exporter, shipping to over 100 countries across 5 continents. Over the last 35 years, they have been at the forefront of science and cutting-edge technology. The Company is Laying the Groundwork: By Starting with a single plant in 1982, we are now India's leading manufacturer of value-added and high-grade steel products. With plants in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, they have the capacity to produce 18 million tons per annum (MTPA).

More about JSW Steel’s CSR Portfolio.

3. Pidilite Industries Limited:

Source: Pidilite Industries Limited

 Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

 Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Gujarat.

Name of the Initiate: Agriculture and Horticulture 

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 9.72 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 25.88 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 27.70 Cr.

The Company has been supporting the partner organisations for agriculture activities and horticulture crops through collaboration with subject matter experts and relevant national institutions. During the year, the Company has assisted in the formation of 132 new Farmer Clubs (covering additional 2,057 farmers) in Bhavnagar and Amreli District (for Cotton, Groundnut, Onion, and other relevant crops). With these additions, now there are 580 Farmer Clubs, covering over 15,000 farmers.

Implementing Partner: Gram Nirman Samaj Gram Vikas Yojna, Triveni Kalyan Foundation, Gram Daxinamurti, Lokbharti, Indian Centre for Climate and Societal Impacts Research

Brief about the Company:

Pidilite Industries Limited is an Indian-based adhesives manufacturing company. It also sells art material, construction chemicals, and other industrial chemicals.Pidilite markets the Fevicol range of adhesives. Its other brands are " Fevikwik'', Dr. Fixit, "Roff'',Cyclo, Ranipal, Hobby Ideas, M-seal and Acron.Pidilite's Fevicol brandPidilite's corporate office is located in Andheri (East), Mumbai. The company has manufacturing facilities in India, including Mahad (Maharashtra), Vapi (Gujarat) Baddi (Himachal Pradesh) and Kala Amb (Himachal Pradesh). It also makes FeviKwik, a popular instant adhesive In South Asia.

More about Pidilite Industries’ CSR Portfolio.

4. Cummins India Limited:

Source: Cummins India Limited

 Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

 Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra 

Name of the Initiate: Rural Development Projects

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 3.90 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 16.08 Cr

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 16.08 Cr. 

This program benefits more than 50,000 lives in rural areas. With the support of the village community, partnerships with the expert NGOs and government agencies we have now successfully replicated model village work at all plant locations in India. In 2020, Cummins continued support for the holistic development of villages with a focus on increasing the income of families. With help from subject matter experts and a scientific approach, the Organic Farming and Community Farming program was scaled up. So far 559 Model farmers are developed and have adopted 100% organic farming practice. Organic farming complemented with the use of new equipment has resulted in increased agricultural yield which doubled the income of many families. For increasing income from dairy farming, ~ 60 farmers were given training by a Subject matter expert agency. This resulted in a significant increase in milk production.

Implementing Partner: Cummins India Foundation.

Brief about the Company:

A Power Leader Cummins in India designs manufactures, distributes and services diesel and alternative fuel engines from 2.8 to 95 litre, diesel and alternative-fuelled power generator sets of up to 3000 kW (3750 kVA), as well as related components and technology. Part of the US $23.8 billion Cummins Inc., Cummins in India serves customers through its network of 3 Generator Original Equipment Manufacturers (GOEMs), 22 dealerships and more than 120 dealership branch offices in India.

More about Cummins India Limited’s CSR Portfolio.

 

5. Punjab National Bank:

Source: Economic Times on PNB

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: NA

Name of the Initiate: Farmer’s Training Centre.

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 3.85 Cr. 

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 40.44 Cr. 

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 40.37 Cr. 

Bank has established 12 Farmers Training Centres. The FTCs are providing free of cost training on agriculture & allied activities and also for Computers, cutting & tailoring/ embroidery, and entrepreneurship development programs. Since its inception, FTCs have imparted training to 16,24,718 persons by conducting 52,254 training programs. These Training Centres have been equipped with the Mobile Van having Soil testing facilities at the farmers’ fields and LED for audiovisual display of informative video clips to the farmers. The Bank spent Rs 385.18 Lakh under this during FY 2020-21.

Implementing Partner: NA

Brief about the Company:

Punjab National Bank is an Indian financial services company based in New Delhi, India. Founded in 1894, the bank has over 6,300 branches and over 7,900 ATMs across 764 cities. It serves over 80 million customers. Punjab National Bank is one of the Big Four banks of India, along with the State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, and Bank of Baroda. It is the third-largest bank in India in terms of asset size (billion by the end of FY 2012-13). The bank has been ranked 248th biggest bank in the world by the Bankers' Almanac.

More about Punjab National Bank’s CSR Portfolio.

 

6. Hindustan Zinc Limited: 

Source: Hindustan Zinc Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Rajasthan

Name of the Initiate: Project Samadhan

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 3.60 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 196.50 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 214.03 Cr. 

This flagship program focuses on increasing the income of the farming community through sustainable farm practices. ‘Samadhan’ reached out to 13,838 farmers through agricultural interventions and 15,103 families through animal husbandry initiatives. Under agriculture, the key highlights and achievements for the year were: 

a) 12% increase in maize production with an average production of 6.3 quintals per bigha

b) Introduction of Hi-tech vegetable cultivation program for the production of exotic crops such as strawberry, broccoli & lettuce

c) In the cropping cycle, the farmers earned an increased income of INR 90,000 through the cultivation of hi-tech vegetables

d) 8 farmers from our communities were recognized both at district & state levels for their exemplary farm practices under the ATMA Awards.

Implementing Partner: BAIF Institute of Sustainable Livelihood Development

Brief about the Company:

Hindustan Zinc Limited was incorporated from the erstwhile Metal Corporation of India on 10 January 1966 as a Public Sector Undertaking. They are India's largest and the world's second-largest integrated zinc-lead producer; and also, one of the lowest cost zinc-lead producers in the world. They have mining, smelting and power operations in multiple locations throughout India. Their principal products are refined zinc metal and refined lead metal. In addition, they also recover silver and cadmium as by-products.

More about Hindustan zinc Limited’s CSR Portfolio

7. Larsen and Turbo Limited:

Source: Larsen and Turbo Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Tamil Nadu

Name of the Initiate: Community Development

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 3.38 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 145.56 Cr. 

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 150.07 Cr.

The ICD programme works towards providing access to clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, and water for agriculture and livestock in these regions. The projects are made sustainable by building and strengthening people’s institutions to manage the resources created by the project. Water and Sanitation efforts in these regions are followed by CSR interventions in health, education, and skill-building based on the needs, aiming to improve the quality of life of these communities.

Implementing Partner: DHAN Foundation

Brief about the Company:

Larsen & Toubro is a major technology, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and financial services conglomerate, with global operations. They address critical needs in key sectors - Hydrocarbon, Infrastructure, Power, Process Industries, and Defence - for customers in over 30 countries around the world. They are engaged in core, high-impact sectors of the economy, and their integrated capabilities span the entire spectrum of ‘design to deliver’. With over 7 decades of a strong, customer-focused approach and a continuous quest for world-class quality, they have unmatched expertise across Technology, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure Projects, and Manufacturing, and maintain leadership in all their major lines of business. 

More about L&T’s CSR Portfolio

8. Godfrey Phillips India Limited: 

Source: Godfrey Phillips Limited

 Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Andhra Pradesh

Name of the Initiate: Rural Development Initiatives. 

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 2.99 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 6.51 Cr

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 6.51 Cr.

This CSR program is designed to create a safety network for marginalized farmers. The initiatives are built around improving their earning capacity and are through exposure to good agricultural practices; collectivization of farmers into Farmers Development Societies that offer seed funds to provide low-cost credit; and water and soil conservation through deciliations, farm ponds, and watersheds. The company also focuses on improving the health standards and quality of life of all in the community by providing safe drinking water through community water plants, access to toilets, and alternate power through solar.

Implementing Partner: Assist

Brief about the Company:

Godfrey Phillips India Limited, a flagship company of the Modi Enterprises, is one of India's largest cigarette manufacturers. They make some of the best cigarette brands in the country including Four Square, Red & White, and Cavender, as well as the recently launched Hawk Eye brand of premium cigarettes. They proudly export their own cigarette brands, like Jaisalmer, Stellar and Black Jack among others, all over the globe. And under a license agreement with Philip Morris, the company manufactures and markets Marlboro cigarettes in India.

More about Godfrey Phillips India Limited’s CSR Portfolio.

9. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Limited:

Source: Dr. Reddy’s Lab

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Andhra Pradesh

Name of the Initiate: Farmer Livelihood Project

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 1.06 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 34.10 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 36.08 Cr.

Implemented in partnership with Naandi Foundation, the project aims at empowering the farmers working at coffee plantations in the Araku Valley Region, Andhra Pradesh. The farmers have been trained on organic-biodynamic farming, farmer cooperation, and business planning. These efforts resulted in enhancing the income of the farmers.

Implementing Partner: Naandi Foundation

Brief about the Company: 

Dr. Reddy's Laboratories is an Indian multinational pharmaceutical company based in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. They were founded by Anji Reddy, who previously worked in the mentor institute Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited, of Hyderabad, India. They manufacture and market a wide range of pharmaceuticals in India and overseas. They have over 190 medications, 60 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for drug manufacture, diagnostic kits, critical care, and biotechnology products. They began as a supplier to Indian drug manufacturers, but they soon started exporting to other less-regulated markets that had the advantage of not having to spend time and money on a manufacturing plant that would gain approval from a drug licensing body such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

More about Dr. Reddy’s Laboratory’s CSR Portfolio. 

10. Tata Chemicals Limited:

Source: Tata Chemicals

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh

Name of the Initiate: Agriculture & Livestock Development

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 1.00 Cr

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 18.51 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 20.92 Cr. 

The company Assisted 6,878 farmers in FY 2020-21 with capacity building, field demonstration, and livestock management through digital and physical interactions. They were provided seeds and Agri-equipment for enhancing farm productivity. Okhamandal Farmer Producer Company, in its second year, grew its operations and launched a mobile app to directly connect farmers with consumers. We ran pilot programmes and established models for driving value, safe environment, and safe food for all with a special focus on small and marginal farmers and farmer producer organisations. 

Implementing Partner: Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development (TCSRD)

Brief about the Company: 

Established in 1939 in Mithapur in the Indian state of Gujarat, Tata Chemicals Limited (TCL) is a part of the US$ 110 billion Tata Group. A global company, they serve customers across 40+ countries in five continents. They bring together their knowledge, expertise, and innovation prowess to positively impact industries, consumers and farmers with their science-led products spread across three business verticals - Basic Chemistry, Consumer Products and Specialty Products.

More about Tata Chemicals Limited’s CSR Portfolio.

11. UPL Limited: 

Source: UPL Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Gujarat

Name of the Initiate: UPL Pragati

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.88 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 10.34 Cr. 

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 99.66 Cr. 

The Company contributed to CSR by contributing towards livelihood promotion through UPL Pragati to create sustainable livelihood with a sharper focus on the farming community, unskilled youth, and women to improve the quality of life in the long term. The Strategy envisaged for operationalizing under UPL Pragati for the sustainable livelihood has three pillars which are Agriculture development through UPL KhedutPragati, Skill development through UPL Niyojaniy Farm Mechanisation training through Adarsh Krishi Niyojan, Women SHG & Entrepreneurship through UPL Udyamita. With an objective to enhance food security and improve the socio-economic conditions of small and marginal farmers, we are working with 3,880 farmers and 87 farmer groups across 6 different clusters in the field and have trained 18,000+ farmers on improved agricultural practices. We have also formed 6 Farmers producer Company (FPC) for better marketing of the produce. They are empowering youth and women to increase their income earning capacities through Developing and strengthening skills, Improving resource accessibility, and Providing institutional support. More than 4520 youth and women from 50+ villages were trained/skilled.

Implementing Partner: S. R. Shroff Aajivika Trust (SRSAT)

Brief about the Company: 

UPL Limited, formerly United Phosphorus Limited, is an Indian multinational company that manufactures and markets agrochemicals, industrial chemicals, chemical intermediates, and speciality chemicals, and also offers crop protection solutions. Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, the company engages in both Agro and non-agro activities. The agro-business is the company's primary source of revenue and includes the manufacture and marketing of conventional agrochemical products, seeds, and other agricultural-related products.

More about UPL Limited’s CSR Portfolio

12. Ratnakar Bank Limited:

Source: RBL

 Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Gujarat 

Name of the Initiate: Bees of Poverty Reduction 

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.84 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 20.12 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 18.74 Cr. 

Through its partnership with Under the Mango Tree Society, RBL Bank helped in improving the incomes of 7000 tribal farmers in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat through the training of sustainable bee-keeping activities. This activity will in turn increase crop yield and income for the farmers from the sale of organic honey, bee wax, etc. In addition, this activity will also provide an additional livelihood to women SHGs through tailoring of bee swarm bags, veils, sale and packaging of bee wax, honey and produce. The next phase is poised to impact 3429 more families across the functional locations.

Implementing Partner: Under the Mango Tree Society

Brief about the Company: 

RBL Bank is one of India's fastest-growing private sector banks with an expanding presence across the country. The Bank offers specialized services under six business verticals namely: Corporate & Institutional Banking, Commercial Banking, Branch & Business Banking, Retail Assets, Development Banking and Financial Inclusion, Treasury and Financial Markets Operations.

More about Ratnakar Bank’s CSR Portfolio.

13. Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals Limited:

Source: Chambal Fertilisers & Chemicals Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area:  Rajasthan

Name of the Initiate: Project Bhoomi

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.79 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 19.58 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 19.65 Cr. 

The Company is running two agriculture development laboratories in Gadepan (Rajasthan) and Agra (Uttar Pradesh) along with a mobile soil testing van in Budaun District of Uttar Pradesh. These laboratories are facilitating farming communities, especially small and marginalized farmers to avail soil health care facilities and farm advisory services for balanced usage of fertilisers and optimize farm output. In order to promote sustainable agriculture practices amongst small and marginalized farmers, a farmer education centre has been established.

Implementing Partner: NA

Brief about the Company: 

Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd. accounts for nearly 15% of the total Urea produced in the country. For more than two decades the company has contributed to the food security of the country with responsibility. Its three hi-tech nitrogenous fertiliser (urea) plants are located at Gadepan in Kota district of Rajasthan. The three plants have an installed annual production capacity of about 3.4 million MT of Urea contributing to a major chunk of Urea consumed in leading agri states in India.

More about Chambal Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited’s CSR Portfolio

14. Grasim Industries Limited:

Source: Grasim Industries Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka

Name of the Initiate: Sustainable Livelihood

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.71 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 45.06 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 84.67 Cr. 

The company works closely with farmers including those involved in animal husbandry to counsel them on best practices and improve their overall income. It also conducts regular training programmes in villages for vocational training and skill development. Since 2014, Grasim has partnered with BAIF, Pune, and Somnath Trust, KVK, to support animal husbandry farmers to earn a sustainable livelihood. Through this initiative, it was able to cover 2,500 farmers in 74 villages, conducting capacity building training, animal health and vaccination drives, cattle insurance, vermicompost among others. Together the interventions have resulted in an income increase of ₹3,000 - ₹4,000 per cattle.

Implementing Partner: Grasim Jana Seva Trust, BCCL Jan Seva Trust, Aditya Birla Jan Seva Trust, Jan Seva Trust

Brief about the Company:

Grasim Industries Limited is the flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group. It started as a textiles manufacturer in India in 1947. Today, it is a leading global player in VSF and the largest chemicals (Chlor-Alkali-s) player in India. It is also the largest cement producer and diversified financial services (NBFC, Asset Management, and Life Insurance) player in India through its subsidiaries UltraTech Cement and Aditya Birla Capital. The Aditya Birla Group is a leading global player in VSF, accounting for ~17 percent of global production.

More about Grasim’s CSR Portfolio

15. Birla Corporation Limited: 

Source: Birla Corporation Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: West Bengal, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh

Name of the Initiate: Environment Sustainability Development

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.58 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 4.28 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 4.53 Cr. 

The Company contributed to the CSR by contributing towards the Improved Animal Husbandry Program, Advance Agriculture Practices & Environmental Sustainability. The livestock development program provides an opportunity for farmers to improve their livestock-based livelihoods by improving the productivity of the progeny through breed improvement and dissemination of improved animal husbandry practices. The program provided extension services, including breeding, fodder propagation, and training of farmers to different villages. Sustainable Agriculture programme attempts to de-risk farmers from erratic weather events through the promotion of climate-smart agriculture premised on the dissemination of relevant packages of practices, adoption of appropriate mechanisation, and provision of institutional services. These were supplemented by support activities (including hands-on training) in the production of vermicompost, drip irrigation techniques, high-yield seed, and nursery development, etc.

Implementing Partner: Shamayita Math, BAIF, Sarv Mangal Gramin Sansthan

Brief about the Company:

Birla Corporation Limited is the flagship Company of the M.P. Birla Group. Incorporated as Birla Jute Manufacturing Company Limited in 1919, it was Late Mr. Madhav Prasad Birla who gave shape to it. As Chairman of the Company, he transformed it from a manufacturer of jute goods to a leading multi-product corporation with widespread activities. Under the Chairmanship of Mrs. Priyamvada Birla, the Company crossed the Rs. 1,300 - crore turnover mark and the name was changed to Birla Corporation Limited in 1998.

More about Birla Corporation’s CSR Portfolio.

16. Vardhman Textiles Limited: 

Source: Vardhman Textiles Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh

Name of the Initiate: Providing technical assistance to cotton-growing farmers

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.386 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 14.23 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 8.73 Cr.

The company contributed to CSR by contributing funds and initiating action for Providing technical assistance to cotton-growing farmers for better farming practices and integrated pest management through Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) Project Pragati in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

Implementing Partner: Sri Aurobindo Socio-Economic & Management Research Institute

Brief about the Company:

The Vardhman Group believes in leadership through excellence. They are a focused textile group with strategic ventures in the steel business. They strive to achieve excellence through a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. As an organization, they believe in well-thought-out consistent growth and a consciously conservative approach. They are committed to investing in the business with initiatives directed at long-term sustainability.

More about Vardhman Textiles Limited’s CSR Portfolio.

17. Apollo Tyres Limited: 

Source: Apollo Tyres Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Gujarat

Name of the Initiate: Improved Farming Practices for community

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.33 Cr

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 15.32 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 10.98 Cr. 

Additionally, the programme also supports farmers by providing them technical knowledge in improved farming practices and livestock care and management. The farmers are trained in improved farming practices like fodder management, seed selection, organic farming, cattle rearing, and others. Farmers are also linked with various government agriculture schemes.

Implementing Partner: Apollo Tyres Foundation

Brief about the Company:

Apollo Tyres Ltd is the world's 7th biggest tyre manufacturer, with annual consolidated revenues of ₹172.76 billion (US$2.46 billion) in March 2018. It was incorporated in 1972. Its first plant was commissioned in Perambra, Thrissur, Kerala, India. The company now has four manufacturing units in India, one in the Netherlands and one in Hungary. It has a network of nearly 5,000 dealerships in India, of which over 2,500 are exclusive outlets. It gets 69% of its revenues from India, 26% from Europe, and 5% from other geographies.

More about Apollo Tyres’ CSR Portfolio.

18. UltraTech Cement Limited:

Source: UltraTech Cement Limited

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka

Name of the Initiate: Agriculture Development. 

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.22 Cr.

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 73.72 Cr. 

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 120.68 Cr. 

The Company contributed to the CSR by contributing towards Agriculture and Farm-Based program through Agriculture and horticulture training program/ farmers group transfer of technology-demonstration plots, support for horticulture plots, seeds improvement program, support for improved agriculture equipment and inputs, exposure visits/support for agricultural mela, integrated agricultural/ horticultural improvement program/ productivity improvement programs, soil health and organic farming. This year 16,700 cattle were immunised. Over 1,520 cattle were artificially inseminated. It has helped enhance the income of 23,000 farm families as the milk output notched up by 70%.

Implementing Partner: UCWF

Brief about the Company:

Ultra Tech Cement Limited is India's biggest cement company and India’s largest exporter of cement clinker based in Mumbai, India. The company is part of the Aditya Birla Group and a division of Grasim Industries. It has an annual capacity of 64 million tonnes. UltraTech Cement has been awarded the Superbrand status. Ultra Tech's products include Ordinary Portland cement, Portland Pozzolana cement, and Portland blast furnace slag cement. Ultra Tech is India's largest exporter of cement clinker. 

More about UltraTech’s CSR Portfolio.

19. Talwandi Sabo Power Limited:

Source: TSPL

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Punjab 

Name of the Initiate: Sustainable Agriculture Promotion Project

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.20 Cr. 

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 2.82 Cr. 

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 1.17 Cr.

Punjab is mainly an agrarian economy where the majority of its people are largely dependent on agriculture for their livelihood. Keeping in mind the need and requirements of the people TSPL has taken up farm-based livelihood initiative ‘Navi Disha’ to boost farmers’ income and ensure sustainable food production through promotion of sustainable agricultural practices in concurrence with the target 2.3 and 2.4 of SDG Goal. The project aims towards supporting 1100 farmers through a series of sessions and interventions based on integrated pest management, soil testing, water testing, seed treatment, organic farming, seed treatment, optimal spacing between rows, using biopesticides, optimum utilization of chemical fertilizers and manures, residual crop straw management, tillage practices, mulching, organic farming and system crop intensification. Besides several Farm field classes, exposure visits, demonstration farms, expert interactions were also organized. In addition to agriculture support, Animal Health check-up camps were also organised in the villages. Close to 400 cattle were treated under this initiative. More than 3,400 farmers benefited from this project.

Implementing Partner: The Nabha Foundation

Brief about the Company:

Talwandi Sabo Power Limited (TSPL) was incorporated as an SPV by Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) with the purpose of constructing a 1980 (3×660) MW thermal power plant at Village Banawala, Mansa-Talwandi Sabo Road, District Mansa, Punjab, India. Sterlite Energy Limited (a Vedanta group company) was selected as the developer of the project based on the Tariff Based Competitive Bidding Process (Case-2) on BOO basis for supply of 100% power to Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) for 25 years as per the guidelines of Government of India. Power Purchase Agreement and other related agreements were signed between TSPL and PSEB on September 1, 2008, and the ownership of Talwandi Sabo Power Limited was transferred to Sterlite Energy Limited (Now Vedanta Limited) on that date.

More about Talwandi Sabo Power Limited’s CSR Portfolio.

20. PI Industries Limited: 

Source: PI Foundation

Sub Thematic Area:  Livelihood Programmes, Agriculture, Rural Livelihoods

Relevant SDG: SDG 1. No Poverty

Intervention area: Uttar Pradesh

Name of the Initiate: DSR: An alternative method of paddy cultivation and way to mitigate the climate change

Total Expenditure on the Project: INR 0.06 Cr. 

Total Prescribed CSR in 2020-21: INR 10.89 Cr.

Actual CSR spent in 2020-21: INR 9.28 Cr. 

The company has contributed to the DSR technique that has impacted over 20 Lac Acres of farmland across the country, thereby saving up to 1.7 trillion litres of water. Adoption has also reduced drudgery to a significant level and helped save an average of 7,000/ Acre in the cost of paddy cultivation.

Implementing Partner: Foundation of development initiatives

Brief about the Company:

PI Foundation was established as a trust in the year 2012 to provide dedicated focus to community development and our CSR initiatives. Our major focus areas are around the neighbouring communities across our manufacturing locations and the farming community across the country to whom we communicate the latest scientific advancements in the field of agriculture.

More about PI Industries’ CSR Portfolio.