Mahindra’s journey in Corporate Social Responsibility sets a benchmark for excellence

At the India CSR One Decade Celebration ‘Bharatiya CSR Ke Dus Saal: Agle Dus Saal Bemisaal’ held at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, on July 27, 2024, Mahindra & Mahindra was honoured with the ‘One Decade Excellence in CSR Award’ for its remarkable contributions to nation-building. The event, co-chaired by Dr. Bhaskar Chatterjee and Dr. Huzaifa Khorakiwala, marked 10 years of CSR law in India and charted the future of CSR for the next decade. During the ceremony, Sheetal Mehta, Senior Vice President - CSR, Mahindra Group, received the award from the Honourable Governor of Maharashtra, Mr. Ramesh Bais.

Echo speaks to Sheetal Mehta following this significant achievement. 

How does it feel to receive the ‘One Decade Excellence in CSR Award’?

Receiving the ‘One Decade Excellence in CSR Award’ is both humbling and validating. This recognition affirms that our Corporate Social Responsibility programmes are making a significant impact on society and such recognition keeps our team motivated. This reinforces a sense of pride in being a member of the Mahindra Parivar.

Looking back, what are the key projects or milestones that have made the decade memorable for the Mahindra CSR team?

The biggest achievement for me was that many of our CSR programs which include educating girls, empowering youth and women through skills and livelihood training and making a positive impact on the planet through water conservation and tree plantation initiatives, have helped reiterate the company's reputation as a purpose-driven organisation.

A professional anecdote or experience that has stayed with you and continues to inspire you?

Every visit to Mahindra Pride Classrooms has been an emotional one, especially while interacting with the alumni. Listening to their stories of hardships and seeing their transformation into young, confident working women is the biggest reward I could ever ask for. Every woman is a success story, and the best part is that the story does not stop with them. They serve as role models and mentors to their community as well as the new women we skill.

As we look ahead, what are the projects you look forward to?

I am particularly excited about the new phase of the Nanhi Kali program, which will equip girls with essential 21^st century skills, including financial literacy, digital proficiency, and sports leadership. As they graduate with these skills, they will be in a position to transition directly into the workforce and avail of our support through our women's empowerment program.