L&T’s CSR initiatives are transforming lives in Surat and beyond
Despite having only one hand, Vibha Patel of Kavas village in Gujarat’s Surat is a computer operator, scanning barcodes and swiftly entering data into an Excel-sheet. Her monthly salary of Rs 11,000 not only sustains her family but also fills her heart with pride.
Abhishek Sonagara from Surat’s Sachin acquired proficiency in CCC, Tally and Advance Excel – and now teaches these subjects in a primary school.
A native of Olpad in Surat, Nehali Kushanbhai Patel underwent tailoring training which has not only turned her into an expert tailor and ensures a steady income but has also led her to teach and inspire other women to achieve financial independence.
With a computer course under his belt, Pinkesh Patel, again from Olpad, earns Rs 12,500 per month and is on his way to charting a successful career.
These are just a few of the success stories arising from L&T’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of skilling and creating employment opportunities for socio-economically weak women and youth in the tribal, rural and semi-urban areas near L&T’s establishments around the country.
L&T’s skill-building initiatives include a host of activities and programmes – such as tailoring, dress-designing, beautician courses, computer coaching and nursing courses. These aim to make the beneficiaries self-reliant and earn the respect of their families and society.
For instance, the CSR team of L&T’s A M Naik Heavy Engineering Complex in Hazira near Surat, runs women and youth empowerment initiatives such as Project Aadhaar, Computer Shakti, etc. The skilling courses are offered in partnership with Community Development Centres and NGOs, and those are recognised by government bodies such as the National Skill Development Corporation and the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, which adds value to the certification.
These CSR initiatives have made a significant impact on the diverse communities in and around Surat. L&T is honoured to count among its many successes the empowerment of underprivileged women and youth.
