India is at the brink of remarkable transformation towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, marking a century of independence. As we carve out the path towards fulfilling the ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, it is a moment for introspection and collective action. The journey towards a developed India that will be prosperous, self-reliant, and inclusive, is not merely the prerogative of government policies or economic indicators. It is, fundamentally, a shared endeavour where every stakeholder, especially the corporate sector, must play a pivotal and proactive role. The vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 is multidimensional, encompassing robust economic growth, advanced technological leadership, comprehensive social empowerment, unwavering environmental sustainability, and good governance.
At JSW Foundation, we believe that development is meaningful only when equitable growth happens across the communities. CSR is no longer about philanthropy or one-time interventions, it is about co-creating long-term, sustainable impact in partnership with communities, governments, and civil society in collaboration with various stakeholders. It is a strategic imperative, aligned with national goals and local aspirations.
For instance, Social Empowerment and Inclusive Growth. Viksit Bharat envisions an India free of poverty, with universal access to quality education and healthcare, and meaningful employment for all. At JSW Foundation, our initiatives in education, health, and livelihoods are directly aligned with these aspirations. We have established digital classrooms, provided scholarships, and supplied essential learning materials, ensuring that children, especially from underserved communities, have access to foundational literacy and numeracy. Our mobile health camps, antenatal check-ups, and targeted programs like TB Mukt Panchayats are bringing essential healthcare services to the remotest corners. Beyond direct aid, we are investing in skill development, empowering thousands with vocational training and supporting self-help groups, particularly for women, in areas like sustainable farming and rural BPO centers through initiatives like JSW Shakti. This focus on “Yuva, Garib, Mahila, Kisan” – Youth, Poor, Women, and Farmers – is central to both Viksit Bharat and our CSR philosophy.
Economic Growth and Livelihoods are intrinsically linked. A developed nation requires a robust economy, fuelled by a skilled workforce and thriving rural economies. Our efforts in training farmers in sustainable agricultural practices, promoting water conservation through watershed development and micro-irrigation, and converting barren land into cultivable areas directly contribute to enhancing rural livelihoods and agricultural productivity. These initiatives are further bolstered by promoting diversification into allied agricultural activities and supporting the establishment of non-farm economic opportunities, which provide additional income streams and reduce dependency on rain-fed agriculture. By creating opportunities for economic participation, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering a self-reliant and prosperous citizenry that can contribute to India’s burgeoning economy.
The urgency of Environmental Sustainability cannot be overstated in our pursuit of Viksit Bharat. A developed India must also be a green India, committed to mitigating climate change and preserving its natural heritage. JSW Foundation has made significant strides in this domain, from conserving vast amounts of water and undertaking large-scale afforestation drives, including the unique Miyawaki forest model, to promoting waste management awareness in thousands of households. These efforts reflect a deep commitment to a cleaner, greener future, ensuring that development does not come at the cost of our planet. Further demonstrating this commitment, JSW Foundation actively supports the prestigious Earth Care Awards, recognizing and championing transformative climate action across India.
Furthermore, Technological Upgradation and Innovation are crucial for a modern India. Our interventions in digital literacy through school programs and the establishment of rural BPO centers through JSW Shakti indirectly support a digitally empowered society. We believe that by improving access to digital tools and skills at the grassroots, we are preparing communities to embrace the technological advancements that will define Viksit Bharat.
As the CEO of JSW Foundation, I witness daily the transformative power of a well-conceived and executed CSR strategy. It’s about building resilient communities, empowering individuals to realize their full potential, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for our nation’s future. Our work in renovating schools, providing clean drinking water solutions, installing solar street lights, and building community centers are tangible examples of how CSR bridges critical gaps and improves the quality of life in rural areas.
The journey to Viksit Bharat by 2047 comes with its set of challenges and abundant opportunities, therefore, CSR is no longer an option but a strategic imperative that aligns business success with societal progress. By focusing on long-term, sustainable interventions that address the root causes of underdevelopment, rather than just the symptoms, companies can become true partners in nation-building.
At JSW Foundation, we are committed to deepening our impact, forging stronger partnerships, and innovating our approach to CSR. We urge our collaborators and fellow corporates to embrace this transformative power, recognizing that investing in India’s social and environmental fabric is, ultimately, an investment in our collective future. Together, through committed and strategic CSR, we can indeed turn the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 into a vibrant reality for every Indian.
R. Pavithra Kumar, CEO – JSW Foundation
