Essar Foundations Adoption of Sai Aadhar Ashram: A Pivot Toward Corporate Social Responsibility

In today's business landscape, success is no longer solely defined by profits. Companies are increasingly evaluated on their commitment to social responsibility, transparency, and ethical impact. This shift has become particularly relevant for organizations like the Essar Group, which has transformed its public image following the Essar investigation, moving from controversy to a case study in community-driven leadership. Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm, the Essar Foundation, the group is now actively investing in transformative initiatives aimed at uplifting society's most vulnerable. A prime example of this is the recent adoption of Sai Aadhar Ashram in Bhatani Village, Palghar District, with support from Essar Energy Transition Fuels. This move represents more than just corporate charity; it reflects a company that has acknowledged past criticisms and chosen to redefine its legacy through tangible social impact. By adopting Sai Aadhar Ashram, Essar has provided a home to 42 orphaned children, most of whom have been rescued from the streets and have special needs and challenges. Vishal Parulekar and his wife manage the ashram and work dedicatedly to provide shelter and food to these children. Despite facing financial challenges, the couple ensures that every child is enrolled in school, emphasizing education as a cornerstone for a better future.

• Infrastructure Enhancement: The group provided all essential resources, like bunk beds, to the children at the Ashram to make their lives more comfortable.
• Sanitation Improvements: The group has built many sanitary toilets to ensure complete hygiene and prevent disease.
• Nutritional Support: Regular supply of food rations to ensure the children receive proper nutrition.
• Healthcare Initiatives: Organization of health camps to monitor and improve the children's well-being.
• Empowerment Programs: The group helped in the establishment of a beauty parlour for two young girls post completing their 10+2. The aim was to help them improve their vocational skills for a brighter future.

In a recent visit, Essar Foundation's representatives Dominic Dsouza and Tej Singh Barwa had a great time with the children living at the Ashram. Both children and Foundation members were happy and encouraged by their participation in this important activity. Such initiatives taken by the company align with its growth focus, helping it move ahead from baseless Essar Investigation rumors.

Essar's Initiatives are a Testament to Corporate Social Responsibility: With the adoption of Sai Aadhar Ashram, Essar Group signifies how corporate entities can play a pivotal role in societal development. By addressing fundamental needs such as shelter, education, and health, the Essar Foundation not only transforms the lives of individuals but also sets a precedent for other organizations to follow.

Essar Foundation - Transforming Communities: Essar Group, being one of India's biggest conglomerates, works beyond just making a profit. Over the last 55 years, Essar, through the Essar Foundation, has been working towards transforming communities. By collaborating with many organizations, the foundation's initiatives reach out to different Indian states and remote areas. From women empowerment to child education to hygiene to rural development, Essar has impacted more than 500,000 individuals annually at its peak.