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  • Automated Driving Test Tracks: Maruti Suzuki signs MoA in Tamil Nadu

    Automated Driving Test Tracks: Maruti Suzuki signs MoA in Tamil Nadu

    Maruti Suzuki India has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Transport Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, to establish 10 Automated Driving Test Tracks (ADTTs) across the state, reinforcing its commitment to road safety.

    The initiative, formalized in a ceremony attended by Transport and Electricity Minister S S Sivasankar and Home Secretary Dheeraj Kumar, aims to revolutionize driving license testing with cutting-edge technology.

    The ADTTs, to be set up in Marthandam, Tirunelveli, Coimbatore (Central), Madurai (North), Tuticorin, Krishnagiri, Dindigul, Tiruvannamalai, Sivagangai, and Trichy (West), were strategically chosen based on high license issuance volumes and connectivity to nearby cities.

    These tracks will leverage video analytics, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and Harnessing Automobiles for Safety (HAMS) technologies to ensure a transparent, standardized, and objective testing process with zero human intervention, aligning with Central Motor Vehicle Rules.

    Maruti Suzuki’s road safety initiatives span the 5Es: Education, Evaluation, Enforcement, Engineering, and Emergency Care.

    “Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to road safety is commendable,” said Minister S S Sivasankar. “This collaboration to establish automated driving test tracks will promote disciplined driving and elevate road safety standards across Tamil Nadu.”

    Rahul Bharti, Senior Executive Officer, Corporate Affairs at Maruti Suzuki, added, “Automated driving test tracks ensure a rigorous and transparent assessment of driver skills. This initiative is a significant step toward safer roads in Tamil Nadu.”

    Maruti Suzuki’s road safety initiatives span the 5Es: Education, Evaluation, Enforcement, Engineering, and Emergency Care.

    The company has already established 45 ADTTs nationwide, including 17 in Uttar Pradesh, 14 in Delhi, 7 in Bihar, 4 in Uttarakhand, 2 in Haryana, and 1 in Jammu & Kashmir. With a recent MoA for 21 ADTTs in Rajasthan and the new Tamil Nadu project, the total will reach 76 ADTTs across India.

    Additionally, Maruti Suzuki operates 8 Institutes of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTRs) and 23 Road Safety Knowledge Centres (RSKCs) to enhance driver education. Its Integrated Traffic Safety Management System (ITMS) supports real-time monitoring, while First Responder training strengthens emergency care.

    The MoA was signed by R Gajalakshmi, Transport and Road Safety Commissioner, and Tarun Agarwal, Senior Vice President, CSR, Maruti Suzuki, marking a milestone in the company’s mission to foster safer roads through innovation and collaboration.

  • Transformative Himachal Pradesh Vision Care Initiative Treks to 5,000

    Transformative Himachal Pradesh Vision Care Initiative Treks to 5,000

    The Government of Himachal Pradesh has partnered with online bus ticketing platform redBus and VisionSpring Foundation to launch the Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative, a transformative effort to deliver vision care services to underserved Himalayan communities.

    Targeting 5,000 people, this initiative provides eye screenings and eyeglass distribution to bridge a critical gap in eye care access.

    In Himachal Pradesh, 3 million people lack proper vision care, part of India’s 550 million residents without necessary corrective eyewear.

    Studies show eyeglasses can boost earning potential by up to 33.4% and increase productivity by 32%. The Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative addresses this need, empowering communities with clearer vision and brighter futures.

    From Oct. 9-18, VisionSpring teams, government officials, and health experts are trekking across Shimla and Kinnaur districts, reaching remote areas like Chitkul, India’s first village, and hazardous mountain roads near Reckong Peo. This Clear Vision Trek, a cornerstone of the Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative, marks the 25th anniversary of VisionSpring founder Jordan Kassalow’s journey that inspired the organization’s mission.

    “Everyone has the right to see clearly, no matter where they live,” Kassalow said, emphasizing the trek’s goal to deliver “life-changing eyeglasses across some of the most challenging terrain on earth.”

    The Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative includes three transformative programs: See to Earn for working adults, See to Learn for students, and See to be Safe for commercial vehicle drivers navigating mountainous roads. These efforts ensure comprehensive vision care tailored to diverse needs.

    Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Clear Vision Trek in Shimla on Oct. 9, aligning with World Sight Day celebrations. Partners like the National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment, World Health Organization, and Indiahikes bolster this transformative Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative, setting a model for accessible healthcare in remote regions.

  • Inspiring Bathinda Nutrition Centres empower rural health

    Inspiring Bathinda Nutrition Centres empower rural health

    When 45-year-old Kulwinder Kaur first heard about a Bathinda nutrition centre opening in her village, Mehma Sawai, she was skeptical. “Another government scheme,” she thought, accustomed to promises that rarely reached her doorstep in rural Bathinda.

    But when a local health volunteer knocked on her door with seeds for a kitchen garden and advice on managing her borderline diabetes, something shifted. “She spoke in our language, understood our kitchens, our budget,” recalls Kulwinder. “For the first time, health advice didn’t feel like it was meant for city people.”

    A Trusted Face in a Medical Desert

    In Mehma Sawai, like many villages across Bathinda, the nearest proper healthcare facility is miles away. For women managing households on tight budgets, taking time off to travel to a clinic—let alone affording consultation fees—remains a luxury. Non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension quietly creep into families, often undiagnosed until complications arise.

    Recognizing this gap, Ambuja Cement established a community Bathinda nutrition centre in the village as part of its CSR health initiative. But the real transformation came through people like Savita, a trained health volunteer from the village itself, who became the centre’s beating heart.

    Where Street Plays Meet Diabetes Awareness

    Savita’s approach was refreshingly simple: meet people where they are. She organized street plays featuring local talent dramatizing the consequences of ignoring health warnings. She distributed vegetable seeds door-to-door, turning kitchen gardens into practical nutrition lessons. During harvest season, she held cooking demonstrations showing how to prepare diabetic-friendly meals without abandoning traditional recipes—focusing on diabetes prevention tips like balanced Punjabi staples.

    “I tell them: you don’t need fancy diets or expensive medicines to start,” says Savita. “Just add more greens, walk after dinner, check your blood pressure once a month. Small changes, big impact.”

    Slowly, the Bathinda nutrition centre became more than a health outpost—it became a gathering place where women shared recipes, compared blood sugar readings, and held each other accountable. Mehma Sawai’s women, many of whom had never learned to read warning signs of hypertension, now confidently discuss symptoms and prevention.

    Nine Villages, One Mission

    The success of Mehma Sawai’s Bathinda nutrition centre caught attention. Ambuja Cements has now replicated the model across nine villages in Bathinda, each anchored by a trained community volunteer who understands local barriers and speaks the language of lived experience. These empowering efforts are fostering sustainable health habits, one village at a time.

    For Kulwinder, the impact is deeply personal. Her blood sugar levels have stabilized. Her kitchen garden now supplies fresh vegetables year-round. But more importantly, she has knowledge—and that has given her agency.

    “Earlier, illness felt like fate. Now I know I have choices,” she says, tending to her thriving spinach patch. “And I’m teaching my daughters the same.”

    In villages where healthcare often arrives too late, these Bathinda nutrition centres are proving that prevention, rooted in community trust and practical wisdom, can be the most powerful medicine of all.

  • Coffee Board Seeks Feedback on Sustainability Scheme to Boost Recognition for Indian Producers

    Coffee Board Seeks Feedback on Sustainability Scheme to Boost Recognition for Indian Producers

    The Coffee Board has invited public consultation on its draft sustainability certification framework, aiming to address a critical gap in recognition for India’s coffee sector despite the country’s adherence to sustainable practices across over 400,000 small and marginal holdings.

    The Indian Coffee Board Sustainability Certification Scheme (INDICOFS), developed by a Core Technical Committee comprising domain experts, introduces a voluntary three-tier compliance system designed to progressively align Indian coffee producers with international sustainability standards.

    Bridging the Recognition Gap

    The sector is integral to the livelihoods of approximately two million individuals, with farms situated in high biodiversity regions, notably the Western and Eastern Ghats. These regions provide essential ecosystem services and are home to numerous major rivers, underscoring the critical role that coffee cultivation plays in environmental stewardship.

    Despite adherence to sustainable agricultural practices integrating social, economic and environmental dimensions, the Indian coffee industry has not achieved recognition commensurate with its quality and production methods. While global demand for sustainably certified coffee has increased, only approximately 15% of India’s total coffee output is currently certified under sustainable certification criteria.

    INDICOFS Framework

    In response to the need for a coherent sustainability framework, the Coffee Board has developed INDICOFS—a set of sustainability standards tailored to the Indian context. The standards acknowledge best practices implemented by Indian coffee farms and facilitate a structured approach for continual improvement, ensuring sustainability across the coffee value chain.

    The scheme covers two phases. The first phase addresses “Sustainability Standards for Indian Coffee Plantations,” while the second phase focuses on “Chain of Custody Standards.” The framework encompasses sustainability standards, inspection procedures and certification protocols.

    The certification system defines three compliance levels:

    Level 1 (Basic/Self-Assessment): Provides foundational requirements for growers to evaluate practices and identify improvement opportunities, overseen by Coffee Board inspections

    Level 2 (Aspiring/Auditing): Outlines criteria for third-party verification, ensuring compliance and facilitating progression beyond basic practices

    Level 3 (Benchmarked Best Practices): Delineates advanced sustainability benchmarks assessed by recognized auditing bodies, signifying alignment with international standards

    Implementation and Oversight

    Implementation of INDICOFS will be managed by the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI), functioning under the administrative control of Coffee Board of India, recognized as one of the oldest public coffee research institutions globally.

    The standards are designed to address the evolving landscape of coffee production, including critical issues related to trade, environmental sustainability and preservation of traditional farming practices. A key innovation is INDICOFS’ holistic integration of responsible production methodologies with practices that enhance climate adaptation and minimize ecological footprints.

    The standard addresses critical Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) aspects essential for sustainable coffee farming and incorporates general disclosure requirements aimed at providing stakeholders with transparent, relevant and comparable information about production operations.

    Public Consultation Invited

    The Coffee Board has posted the draft INDICOFS scheme along with an overview note on its website for wider consultation. Stakeholders and members of the public are invited to review the documents and share their views, comments and suggestions.

    Comments must be submitted in the prescribed format (Annexure-I) by email to dirresh@gmail.com with a copy to drccri2022@gmail.com on or before October 24, 2025.

    “The Coffee Board values your feedback and cooperation in this important national initiative to position Indian Coffee as a global benchmark for sustainability,” the board stated.

    By adopting this standard, coffee producers can demonstrate compliance with recognized sustainability benchmarks, enhance their marketability and contribute to the global movement toward sustainable agricultural practices. The initiative is expected to foster collaboration among coffee producers and stakeholders to promote a resilient and sustainable Indian coffee industry while improving the long-term viability of coffee farming and quality of life for communities involved in the supply chain.

  • Coal Ministry urges companies to align CSR efforts with local community needs

    Coal Ministry urges companies to align CSR efforts with local community needs

    Ministry of Coal on Tuesday held a stakeholder consultation on strengthening the Corporate Social Responsibility framework for coal companies, with officials calling for better coordination of welfare and sustainability programmes.

    Additional Secretary Rupinder Brar urged coal companies to align their CSR, welfare and sustainability initiatives to maximise community benefits, according to a statement.

    She stressed the need to prioritise local requirements when planning CSR activities.

    Brar emphasised the importance of engaging credible agencies for need and impact assessments to enable more effective CSR programmes, the ministry said.

    Coal public sector undertakings and private sector companies shared experiences on major CSR projects, community engagement and lessons from impact assessments during the New Delhi meeting.

    India is the world’s second-largest coal producer and consumer after China, with coal accounting for about 70% of the country’s power generation.

  • Schneider Electric India Foundation Launches Climate Smart Village in Jharkhand

    Schneider Electric India Foundation Launches Climate Smart Village in Jharkhand

    Schneider Electric India Foundation (SEIF), the social impact arm of Schneider Electric, inaugurated a Climate Smart Village in Kocha, Khunti, an aspirational district in Jharkhand, in partnership with NGO PRADAN, the company announced on Monday.

    This marks SEIF’s third such initiative in the state, following projects in Gumla district, aimed at bolstering food security and fostering self-reliant rural communities through sustainable energy access.

    The launch was led by Jharkhand’s Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Dipika Pandey Singh, alongside Khunti MP Kali Charan Munda, Torpa MLA Sudeep Gudhiya, and Schneider Electric’s Vice President for Strategy, M&A, and CSR, Damini Chaudhari.

    In Kocha, a 40 kW solar-powered mini-grid with smart energy management now powers irrigation pumps, agro-processing units, households, streetlights, a Primary Health Center, and an e-vehicle.

    Previously reliant on a single rain-fed crop, farmers are transitioning to multi-crop cultivation, processing produce locally, and marketing through a women-led Farmer Producer Organization, Torpa Mahila Krishi Bhagwani Saykari Swalambhi Samiti. This shift is boosting agricultural productivity, local value addition, and community livelihoods.

    “Access to sustainable livelihood is the first step towards empowering communities,” said Deepak Sharma, Zone President – Greater India and MD & CEO of Schneider Electric India.

    “The Kocha initiative shows how renewable energy, combined with digital technologies and local entrepreneurship, can transform rural economies, fostering resilient, self-reliant communities.”

    Kocha previously faced low farm productivity, limited livelihood options, and reliance on monsoon rains, restricting farmers to one crop cycle annually. The lack of three-phase power prevented agro-processing, while absent streetlights compromised safety, and migration was common due to insufficient local jobs.

    “The Climate Smart Village in Kocha demonstrates how decentralized energy models can unlock long-term rural prosperity,” said Damini Chaudhari.

    “By integrating solar power with digital technologies, we’re addressing energy gaps and creating a sustainable platform for entrepreneurship and community well-being.”

    SEIF’s initiative aligns with Schneider Electric’s broader commitment to scalable models for energy equity and inclusive growth, supporting India’s vision of Viksit Bharat.

  • Haribol Revives Ancient Water Mills: Eco-Flour Magic in Uttarakhand!

    Haribol Revives Ancient Water Mills: Eco-Flour Magic in Uttarakhand!

  • Water Access Transforms 15 Rajasthan Villages

    In Sambhar, Rajasthan, the Royal Rajasthan Foundation’s (RRF) Access to Water project, launched in 2020, is changing lives across 15 villages. Partnering with Gram Chetan Kendra, Muthoot Pappachan Foundation, and Danish Power, RRF has built farm ponds to conserve rainwater, boost irrigation, and lift farmer incomes, while empowering women to lead community efforts.

    For the first time in generations, families are growing a second crop, ending distress migration. Key impacts include:

    • 100% of farmers now grow a second crop, with 24% earning over ₹1.2 lakh extra annually.
    • Households save ₹1,000–2,000 monthly on water, with many accessing fluoride-free drinking water.
    • 91% of families with fruit trees save ₹200–300 monthly and report better nutrition.
    • Chemical fertilizer use dropped from 43% to 13%.
    • 96% of farmers learned efficient water use, improving soil and reducing pests.
    • 95% of families invest savings in children’s education.

    “Water isn’t scarce—it’s mismanaged,” says Ranjit Barthakur, RRF Chairperson. “With women leading, we’re building resilient, thriving communities.”

    In 2025, RRF will add 400 farm ponds, reaching over 1,470 families, and launch a Khejri tree plantation drive. This project shows how water, women’s empowerment, and climate action can transform rural lives.

  • Bright Futures: New Classrooms Transform Rural Karnataka

    Bright Futures: New Classrooms Transform Rural Karnataka

    In Kolkunte village, 13-year-old Priya beams as she enters her new classroom—bright, airy, and sturdy. Thanks to a partnership between Aahwahan Foundation and Huawei India, modern learning spaces are rising in remote Karnataka villages like Kolkunte (Davanagere), Hirekeruru (Haveri), and Thuraganuru (Mandya), where old schools lacked basic facilities.

    These spacious, well-ventilated classrooms are more than buildings—they’re hope for kids like Priya and 15-year-old Anil, who no longer worries about leaking roofs. “School feels like a place to grow now,” Anil says.

    “We’re building spaces where kids can dream big,” says Aahwahan’s CEO Braja Kishore Pradhan statement. The initiative bridges the urban-rural education gap, creating inclusive environments for underserved communities.

    “Every child deserves a chance to learn,” says Satish Hampali of Huawei India. “We’re proud to support rural students and build a brighter future.”

    With plans to reach more villages, Aahwahan and Huawei India are transforming lives, one classroom at a time. For Priya, it’s simple: “This place makes me believe I can be anything.”

  • APOA, CPOPC, Solidaridad Sign MoU to Boost Sustainable Palm Oil in South Asia

    APOA, CPOPC, Solidaridad Sign MoU to Boost Sustainable Palm Oil in South Asia

    The Asian Palm Oil Alliance (APOA), the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), and Solidaridad have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration between palm oil producers and consumers, aiming to advance sustainability and stabilize supply chains across South Asia.

    The agreement, signed in Mumbai, establishes a framework to align national sustainability standards, address market volatility, and promote smallholder inclusion, with a focus on India, a key market serving over 1.5 billion consumers.

    “This partnership provides a platform for producers and consumers to tackle shared challenges like food security and price stability,” said Atul Chaturvedi, chairman of APOA.

    The MoU commits the parties to harmonize frameworks such as Indonesia Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO), Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO), and the Indian Palm Oil Sustainability (IPOS) Framework, while respecting national regulations.

    It also emphasizes traceable, No Deforestation, No Peat, and No Exploitation (NDPE)-compliant sourcing, using tools like Solidaridad’s SoliTrace and remote-sensing technology for supply chain transparency.

    A Joint Working Group, co-chaired by APOA and CPOPC with Solidaridad as the Technical Secretariat, will oversee implementation, monitor progress, and coordinate advocacy efforts.

    Focus on Resilience and Inclusion

    The initiative aims to ensure a stable supply of affordable edible oils amid price fluctuations and logistical challenges. Pilot projects will introduce digital traceability and importer-facing dashboards tailored for Indian buyers, alongside training for smallholders on regenerative farming practices.

    “Indian consumers deserve clear information on palm oil’s affordability and sustainability,” said Dr. B. V. Mehta, executive director of the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India, which hosts APOA’s secretariat.

    CPOPC’s Secretary General Izzana Salleh highlighted the role of fair trade and evidence-based dialogue in building market confidence, with smallholder livelihoods as a priority. Solidaridad Asia’s Managing Director, Dr. Shatadru Chattopadhayay, stressed delivering “practical sustainability” for producers and buyers.

    Broader Implications

    The partnership will advocate for fair recognition of national sustainability standards in global trade discussions and explore minimum sustainability criteria for Indian public procurement. By addressing policy risks and promoting climate-smart practices, the MoU seeks to enhance economic resilience and environmental stewardship across the region.

    APOA represents vegetable oil associations from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. CPOPC, founded by Indonesia and Malaysia, advocates for producer nations. Solidaridad provides technical expertise in traceability and smallholder support.