Holistic Interventions for Sustainable Rural Development in Madhya Pradesh: A CSR Initiative

CG POWER AND INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS LTD (CG) under their CSR initiative, collaborated with TERI to create sustainable impacts through integrated rural development in the operational area of its plant in Mandideep, Madhya Pradesh. Given its extensive experience in successfully implementing sustainable rural development solutions across India, TERI formulated a holistic programme comprising sustainable development activities under various thematic domains. Four major themes were chosen in consultation with CG Power, including clean energy access, skills and livelihood, health and sustainable mobility.

Objectives

The overall objective of the project was to foster the design and implementation of initiatives that holistically address issues concerning environmental conservation and social challenges using a people-centric approach. Specific objectives include-

• Integrated development of villages addressing multiple themes in alignment with CGPISL’s vision for CSR
• Creating sustainable infrastructure for improving different aspects of community living such as health, infrastructure, education, mobility, and household energy
• Fostering skilling and capacity building through targeted approaches
• Improving the livelihood situation of the village population
• Disseminating knowledge gained through the project experience

Approach

An inclusive bottom-up approach was adopted for formulating solutions, where different sections of the community were consulted to understand their challenges and demands for enhancing their lives and livelihoods. Amongst the villages surveyed, Diwatiya, Goharganj, Dahod, Bamnai, and Harrai were shortlisted for interventions.

Scope of Work

Outcome

The project transformed the villages around Mandideep through unique environmentally conscious and sustainable solutions that addressed the infrastructural gaps faced by the villages. These interventions were pivoted around community need, acceptance, and ownership. The project not just aimed to plug the gaps in physical infrastructure but also attempted to contribute to social changes through improved educational and health outcomes, alternative livelihood opportunities, enhanced skills, and empowering women towards economic independence. The project also contributed to ensuring food security through uninterrupted clean power supply for irrigation. Ensuring better last mile connectivity to the community through e-mobility solutions creates an environment for economic development, women’s safety, and better social interactions amongst community members. Overall, this project is an example of holistic sustainable development at the heart of rural India that leads the way for future rural development initiatives through a strong partnership between Corporates, Community, and Implementing Agencies.