From its inception, Mahindra & Mahindra Auto Farm Sector has acknowledged the interdependent relationship between business success and societal well-being, paving the path for transformative change through pioneering CSR initiatives. With a commitment to empowering communities, uplifting marginalized groups, and advocating sustainability, their CSR endeavors surpass conventional boundaries, embodying the spirit of collaborative action and shared prosperity.
Mahindra & Mahindra Auto Farm Sector’s CSR Focus: FY 2023
In the fiscal year 2023, their primary CSR initiative revolved around empowering women and youth through skill development programs. Additionally, they channelled their efforts into bolstering farmers and rural communities through water conservation projects and the advocacy of sustainable agricultural practices. This comprehensive approach underscores their commitment to nurturing inclusive growth and empowerment across all societal sectors.
Speaking to The Logical Indian, Avilash Dwivedi, CSR Head- AFS Sector, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd said “At the Auto and Farm Sector (Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd), the social journey is aligned with the Mahindra Group RISE Philosophy. Our Core PURPOSE is to drive positive change in the lives of our communities. Only when we enable others to rise will we rise. #TogetherWeRise.
This purpose sets the tone for CSR Initiatives at the AFS sector. Spread across 11 states, the community development initiatives focus on Skilling, Women Empowerment, Education, and Water Management. The multi stakeholder engagement, along with NGO Partners, has enabled us to deliver sustainable projects, and this journey continues as we learn to evolve and excel along with the key communities around our business and beyond. We remain aligned with UN SDG Goals and National CSR Frameworks in this journey to measure the results.”
Among the array of innovative initiatives, let’s shine a spotlight on two notable ones: Breaking the ploughshare ceiling and PRERNA- Empowering Women.
Livelihood Through Farm Mechanization: Breaking the ploughshare ceiling
Women’s invaluable contributions to agriculture often go unnoticed and undervalued, compounded by substantial gender-based obstacles that hinder their productivity and earnings. A significant challenge confronting women farmers is the limited access to modern farm equipment, such as tractors, which are pivotal in modernizing agriculture, enhancing productivity, and reducing labor costs. Yet, many women farmers lack access to tractors and the necessary training to operate them effectively. Addressing this disparity head-on, the program “Livelihood Through Farm Mechanization,” launched in 2022, has trained 720 beneficiaries, including 232 women. Notably, all women trained under the program are pioneering tractor operators in their families. Furthermore, 100% of the trainees have obtained a permanent license, empowering them to significantly enhance agricultural productivity and livelihoods.
Fostering Women’s Socio-Economic Growth: The PRERNA Initiative
Impact overview:
- In F23, 1100+ women across 6 states were supported under the PRERNA initiative.
- Trained and strengthened women lead FPOs for improved market linkages in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra linking 900+ women for the sustainable livelihood means.
- 30 SHGs were formed and established linkages with government schemes.
- Women Initiated income generation activities by making soft toys, Mushroom Farming, Jute bags, Artificial jewellery, Knit cloths etc.
- 400 Women farmers were trained on setting up worming composting units, developing kitchen gardens and adopting modern farming practices.
